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Scented mouse deterrents, like peppermint oil, can be effective in the short term. The pungent smells may temporarily repel mice, but they lose effectiveness as the scent fades or mice get used to it. The main drawbacks are frequent reapplication and the fact that these deterrents don't address the root cause of the infestation, such as entry points or food sources. While they can be part of a broader strategy, scented deterrents alone are rarely enough to eliminate a mouse problem.

Clean your drains with either a bleach solution or a mixture of apple cider vinegar, baking soda, and boiling water. Repeat the process several times in one week to ensure you've killed the whole nest.

Woodpeckers may seek out homes with aluminum siding or tin roofs because these surfaces echo their drumming. Homes with wood siding are more frequently targeted as roosting areas or for food sources. If you have insects living in the exposed wood in your home, the birds are likely looking for a snack, in which case your best option is to hire an exterminator.

If you find bed bugs on your mattress, your first step is to put your sheets, pillowcases, pillows, and nearby linens into a trash bag and wash them in hot water. Then, vacuum your mattress and the rest of your bedroom, paying special attention to the mattress seams and crevices near your headboard. Next, use one (or more) of the solutions listed above to kill any live bugs, or call an exterminator for a professional treatment.