Mouse Prevention Tips for Home Furniture

Got a new sofa or a bamboo coffee table and worried about mice munching on it? You’re not alone. A few easy habits can stop rodents before they start chewing, staining, or nesting in your furniture.

Seal the Entry Points

The first line of defense is closing off the way in. Walk around each room and look for gaps around doors, windows, and baseboards. A quick caulk job or weather‑stripping strip can block the tiniest opening a mouse can squeeze through. Don’t forget to check where pipes and wires enter the house—those little holes are prime mouse highways.

Even small cracks in walls or under cabinets can be a problem. Use expandable foam for larger gaps and a silicone sealant for the tight ones. It takes a few minutes, but the payoff is a home that’s harder for pests to invade.

Smart Furniture Placement and Care

Keep furniture away from walls whenever possible. A small gap of an inch or two lets you see if any critters are trying to climb up. If you have a wooden or bamboo piece, dust it regularly. Food crumbs and pet hair are magnets for mice, and a clean surface removes the invitation.

Elevate furniture on legs or platforms. Mice love hiding under low pieces, but they struggle to reach items that sit higher off the floor. For outdoor pieces, add covers that breathe—plastic tarps trap moisture and can attract insects, which in turn draw mice.

Store cushions, blankets, and pillows in sealed plastic bins. Mice love soft material to nest in, and a tight‑fitting lid stops them from getting inside. If you have a sofa bed, pull out the mattress and keep it in a closet when not in use.

Use Natural Repellents

Plants like mint, lavender, or rosemary emit scents that mice avoid. Place a few potted herbs near entry points or on top of furniture legs. For a quick spray, mix water with a few drops of peppermint essential oil and mist it around doors and windows.

Another low‑cost trick is to sprinkle dryer sheets in drawers or under furniture. The strong fragrance isn’t pleasant for rodents, and it adds a fresh scent to your home.

Set Traps Wisely

If you already have a mouse problem, traps are a must. Position snap traps or humane catch‑and‑release traps along walls, behind furniture, and near suspected mouse paths. Bait them with peanut butter, cheese, or a small piece of fruit. Check traps daily and dispose of any catch promptly.

Once you’ve caught a few mice, reinforce the sealed areas. Mice often test the same route, so a one‑time fix can become a permanent barrier.

Maintain a Clean Environment

Food leftovers are the biggest lure for mice. Keep countertops clear, store snacks in airtight containers, and empty trash bins regularly. If you have pets, wash their feeding bowls after each meal and don’t leave pet food out overnight.

Regular vacuuming removes crumbs and fur that can attract pests. Sweep under furniture weekly to catch any debris that might have slipped through.

By following these simple steps—sealing gaps, smartly arranging furniture, using natural repellents, setting traps, and staying tidy—you can protect your home furnishings from mouse damage without spending a fortune. A few minutes of effort now saves you headaches, repairs, and potential health risks later.