Seasonal Clutter Could Be Attracting Mice To Your Home In The Winter

Winter has a peculiar way of turning your home into a stage for surprises — and not the kind wrapped in shiny paper. One minute you're reaching for a box of ornaments, and the next, you're freezing in place because you swear something just flicked past your peripheral vision. It's the kind of moment that feels straight out of a low-budget thriller, but these intruders aren't ghosts or shadows. In fact, they're mice that take over your seasonal clutter to create a cozy spot for themselves. The extra boxes, forgotten décor, and quiet hiding spots around your home create everything a mouse needs to settle in and start a tiny, unwanted empire.

Even the storage boxes and decor in attics and basements are an attractive spot for them. These quiet corners stay warm, offer privacy, and contain just enough forgotten items to serve as a mouse playground. Garages, too, can become highways straight into your home. Cardboard boxes, seasonal décor, and storage bins in your garage can give mice soft nesting materials, and the frequent incoming and outgoing traffic makes their entry inside your home effortless. Even that stack of unopened delivery boxes is a temptation, as they provide shelter and insulation that mice love. Following general tips and tricks to keep mice out of your home, along with holiday-specific advice, can stop the unwanted guests this holiday season.

It all starts with giving your storage areas a proper once-over. Sweep up stray ribbons, scraps of paper, or bits of fabric that might seem harmless but are a luxury hotel for rodents. If possible, lift storage bins off the floor while they're being stored. Even a simple shelf or a wooden pallet can turn a mouse's dream hideout into a no-entry zone. 

Next, check for gaps around doors, windows, and pipes. And think twice before you ignore the tiny holes, as they're the perfect entry point for mice. Don't forget to seal garage door gaps to keep mice and other pests out. You can use steel wool, caulk, or any other materials to stop them from invading your home. Another pro-tip is to peek behind boxes, under rarely moved decorations, and along the bottom edges of garage doors. If you notice daylight peeking through or drafts coming in, you may need to replace the bottom seal on the garage door or fill the holes to strengthen your defenses. 

While you're at it, declutter basements and garages or any spot that's dark, quiet, and packed with huge cardboard boxes or Christmas decor. The type of storage containers you use also matter — a good practice is to use sealable plastic bins instead of cardboard to keep mice out and protect your decorations. Lastly, handle deliveries ASAP, break down the boxes, shake out packing materials outside, and check for pests before bringing items inside your home to make sure you're not also bringing in a stowaway.