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Yes, dryer sheets can help repel mice. The strong artificial fragrances found in many dryer sheets, such as citrus, floral, or lavender, are unpleasant to mice, which are very sensitive to smells. Many people report success using them to deter mice from areas like cars, drawers, vents, and cupboards. The scent can last for many days, making the space undesirable for rodents. However, dryer sheets may not be a foolproof solution on their own. For more effective protection against rodent infestations, it is best to combine them with other preventive measures like traps, repellent sprays, and proper storage practices.

It can be difficult to know what type of animal is in your attic until you see it. But several clues can help you narrow down the suspects:

• Sounds: Smaller animals like rats and mice make scurrying and tapping/gnawing sounds. Larger animals like raccoons and opossums make louder clambering noises. Also, note when animals are noisy: Squirrels are active during the day, while rats are busiest at night.

• Droppings: Rats and mice leave small, rice-shaped droppings (the rat’s version is significantly larger). Bigger droppings belong to larger critters like raccoons. As long as you’re not squeamish, an image search can help you identify what you’re seeing in your attic.

When in doubt, take photos of damage or other evidence and show them to an experienced pest control pro.

If squirrels set up a home in your attic, they can cause considerable damage. It’s not uncommon for them to chew holes in your roof, siding, or joists, and they can eat through electrical wiring. They might also travel to other parts of your home or into your wall cavities. Not to mention all that bacteria-filled feces and urine they spread around. 

Some stores sell smoke bombs to drive animals out of spaces, but we don’t recommend you use them, especially in an attic. The smoke can be toxic to humans or pets that may accidentally inhale it. Meanwhile, critters can easily escape the smoke by temporarily leaving the attic, only to return via their usual entry points after the smoke clears.