Most people and business owners are displeased to discover a rodent infestation in their home or business. While some may opt to just let the rodents be or assume that the rodent problem must have gone away, there’s many good reasons to address a rodent problem.
Rodents can cause extreme damage to homes that is not visible to the naked eye. Many a phone outage or electrical fire has been caused by rodents chewing through wires and cords. Most importantly, rodents spread disease and leave contaminates behind.
If you’ve addressed the existing rodent infestation by do-it-yourself methods, the clean up begins.
Clean Up
Once the ventilation has been completed, begin cleaning up urine and droppings. IMPORTANT: Do not stir up particles by sweeping or vacuuming the dropping, urine or nests. Wear proper equipment including rubber/latex/vinyl gloves.
Step 1: Limit the chance of particles by spraying the urine or dropping with a disinfectant. If you do not have a disinfectant use 1-part bleach to 10 parts water. Let the solution soak for 5 minutes to ensure it is absorbed.
Step 2: Use a disposable cloth to collect the urine and/or droppings. Dispose in the garbage.
Step 3: Disinfect the area including items which may have been contaminated by the rodents.
- Use the disinfectant or bleach solution to map floors and clean countertops.
- Upholstery and carpets should be steam-cleaned.
- Wash any cloth materials such as bedding and clothing in hot water.
Step 4: Bag any exposed insulation that has been contaminated.
Step 5: Remove an any potentially contaminated materials from storage containers. First move them into a well-ventilated and lit area and then use the disinfectant on the outside. While standing upwind, dispose of any belongings which may have been contaminated.
Step 6: Dispose of any cardboard boxes which have been contaminated.
Step 7: Remove gloves, dispose of them and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
If you are squeamish about dealing with rats and mice. you may find it preferable to hire a rodent exterminator who can deal with trapping and disposing of rodents.
Poulin’s Pest Control will search your home to find where the rodents are entering and seal them properly. We are experienced with rodent problems and know how to get rid of the vermin and prevent them from re-entering your home. Contact us for more information.