If you’ve seen a mouse or two, it’s tempting to try handling the problem yourself — but mice multiply fast, and what starts as a minor issue can spiral into a full-blown infestation in weeks. So when should you call an exterminator? The short answer: if DIY traps aren’t working after a couple of weeks, or you’re seeing droppings, gnaw marks, or hearing scratching in multiple areas of your home, it’s time to bring in a pro.
Professional extermination typically costs $100 to $250 for a single visit, but more severe infestations could run up to $500. While that’s more than DIY methods, it’s worth it for peace of mind — and to prevent costly damage to your wiring, insulation, and food supply.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the signs of an infestation, DIY methods that actually work, and how to know when it’s time to stop trying on your own and call in expert help.
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Signs You Need a Mouse Exterminator
Before you call in a pro, it’s important to know if you’re dealing with just a stray mouse or a full-on mouse infestation. Here are three signs it’s time to bring in pest control:
1. Droppings Everywhere
Mouse droppings are usually the first warning sign. These tiny black pellets aren’t just gross — according to the New York State Department of Health, they can spread diseases like Hantavirus. If you’re finding droppings in more than one area of your home, you likely have more than just one mouse.
Cleanup Tip: Don’t sweep them up. Spray the droppings with a bleach solution, then wipe them up with paper towels while wearing gloves and a mask.
2. Scratching Sounds in Walls or Ceilings
Hearing soft scratching or squeaking in your walls, attic, or ceiling? Mice love to nest in these hidden spots where they stay warm. While the noise may seem minor, mice can chew through electrical wires, damage insulation, and leave droppings behind — creating fire risks and health hazards.
3. Chewed Food Packaging
Mice will chew through boxes, bags, and containers to get to your food. Look for rough, uneven holes in food packaging and droppings nearby. Once mice start raiding your pantry, it’s time to act — fast.
DIY Mouse Removal Methods That Actually Work
You don’t need to call an exterminator for every mouse problem. For minor issues, these proven DIY methods can help you get rid of rodents and keep them from coming back.
Seal Up Entry Points
Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as a quarter inch — about the size of a pencil eraser. Carefully inspect your home, especially low-traffic areas like the attic, basement, closets, and behind cabinets.
- Small gaps: Seal them with caulk.
- Larger holes: Plug them with steel wool or copper mesh — they can’t chew through these materials.
Pro Tip: Store all food, including pet food, in sealed containers. Easy access to food is a top reason mice stick around.
Trap Effectively
Setting traps can stop a small mouse problem in its tracks, and help you confirm if you’ve got more guests than you thought. Here’s what to use:
- Snap traps: Classic, quick-kill traps that work fast and humanely.
- Bait stations: Poison bait in sealed boxes. Effective, but mice might die in walls or tight spaces.
- Live traps: Catch mice alive and release them far from your home.
No matter the trap type, check them daily and leave them out for at least a week. No action after 7–14 days? You likely don’t have a big enough problem to need professional help.
Repel With Smell
Mice hate strong scents. Mix peppermint, clove, or cinnamon essential oils with water and spray around your home. You can also sprinkle cayenne or chili powder near entry points.
When To Call a Professional Exterminator
DIY methods may be fine for minor mouse problems but won’t do much against a major infestation. Call an exterminator if:
- You see multiple mice during daylight hours
- DIY methods don’t work after several weeks of trying
- There’s evidence of mice in multiple areas of the home
- You find droppings in food preparation areas
- There are signs of wiring damage from chewing or holes in walls
If you have one or more of the signs above, it’s worth calling a pest control expert. Professional exterminators like Terminix have access to more potent tools and treatments that can handle larger infestations. They can also identify and seal entry points that homeowners might miss, helping to prevent future problems.
Cost of Professional Mouse Extermination
Professional mouse extermination costs can vary widely depending on the severity of the infestation and where you live. According to Angi, pest control costs about $171 on average, ranging from $108 to $261 for a one-time extermination service. For severe infestations, costs could potentially rise to $500 or more.
While this might seem expensive compared to DIY methods, professional services provide better results. Many of the best pest control companies also offer ongoing maintenance plans, which can be more cost-effective in the long run if your house is prone to recurring mouse problems.
Bottom Line: Know When To Call for Backup
You can handle a mouse or two on your own, but mice breed fast — and what seems like a small issue can get out of hand quickly. If DIY traps and repellents aren’t working, or you’re seeing signs of a bigger problem, don’t wait. Call a local exterminator and get it handled before the damage, and the costs, pile up.
