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To determine if you have a rat or mouse infestation, look for several key differences. The most obvious is the size of the rodent: rats are significantly larger with thicker bodies, while mice are much smaller and more slender. You can also identify them by their droppings; rat droppings are larger and rounder, about the size of a raisin, while mouse droppings are smaller, like a grain of rice, and often have pointed ends. Other signs include the sounds they make, as rats produce louder scratching and gnawing noises due to their size. Behaviorally, rats tend to be more cautious, whereas mice are more curious and might be seen more often. Additionally, rat nests are typically larger than those of mice. If you are unable to see the pest or find clear evidence, a professional inspection can provide a definitive identification.

Many people have reported success in using dryer sheets to deter mice. This result is likely due to the strong scent that the rodents don’t find favorable. However, using dryer sheets alone may not be a foolproof solution, and it's often better to combine various preventive measures, such as traps, repellent sprays, and proper storage practices, to protect your car from rodent infestations more effectively.

It’s unlikely true water bugs will get into your home plumbing system. You may find them in gutters, rain barrels, or open irrigation on your property. If there are bugs near your indoor pipes, leaky sinks, or other moist places, they are probably Oriental cockroaches. Consult a pest control professional to determine the pest hiding out in your plumbing system.

To keep animals away from your trash, you can spray store-bought ammonia-based cleaners on the bag or make your own spray. All you need is a spray bottle with one part ammonia and one part water. Once you’ve sprayed the bags, keep your kids and pets away.