Mice In The Garage

Mice in your garage can quickly turn from a minor annoyance into a serious problem. From gnawed boxes and stolen pet food to unpleasant odors from dead rodents, these small invaders can cause big headaches. Homeowners in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Northern Colorado frequently encounter this issue, particularly during colder months when rodents seek warmth and shelter.

In this guide, we’ll cover why garages attract mice, the signs of a mouse infestation, problem areas to watch, how to prevent entry, and what to do if you discover a mouse nest in your garage.

What This Article Covers

• Why garages attract mice
• How mice get into garages
• Signs of a mouse infestation (including dead rodents and mouse nests)
• Problem areas and storage tips
• How to prevent mice from entering your garage
• When to call rodent control experts

Why Garages Are a Hotspot for Mice

Garages offer everything a mouse could want: warmth, shelter, and easy access to food. Key reasons garages attract mice include:

• Warmth and shelter: Cars, heaters, and insulation make garages an ideal spot for mice to escape cold weather.
• Food sources: Pet food, birdseed, and even human snacks stored in garages are irresistible to rodents.
• Hiding spots: Cluttered storage areas, piles of boxes, and unused furniture provide the perfect cover for nesting and activity.

How Mice Get Into Garages

Mice are experts at squeezing through tiny openings. Common entry points include:

Gaps and cracks: Even openings as small as a quarter-inch can let mice inside. Check under doors, around windows, and near the foundation.
Garage doors left open: An unsecured or improperly sealed door is an open invitation for rodents.
Utility openings: Holes around pipes, wiring, and vents can serve as hidden entry points.

Signs of a Mouse Infestation

Knowing what to look for can help you catch a problem early. Look for:

• Mouse nests: Shredded paper, insulation, or cardboard tucked in corners or storage areas.
• Droppings: Small, dark pellets near food containers, shelves, or problem areas.
• Gnawed items: Chewed wires, boxes, or stored belongings.
• Dead rodents and odors: Musty or ammonia-like smells often indicate the presence of dead mice in hidden spaces.

Remember, a single mouse can quickly lead to a larger infestation. Mice reproduce fast, so early detection is key.

Problem Areas and Storage Tips

Certain areas of your garage are more vulnerable than others:

• Pet food storage: Store all pet food in rodent-proof containers. Mice are especially attracted to easy meals.
• Cluttered storage areas: Avoid stacked boxes, unused furniture, or piles of materials that create hiding spots.
• Trash and recycling: Don’t leave garbage unsecured in your garage.
• Firewood and yard debris: Store wood outside and away from garage walls to reduce shelter opportunities.

How to Prevent Mice from Entering Your Garage

Taking these steps can help keep rodents out:

• Seal all openings: Fill cracks, gaps, and holes around doors, windows, and utility lines.
• Secure garage doors: Install or replace the rubber sealing at the bottom of the door and ensure doors are fully closed.
• Store food properly: Use airtight, rodent-proof containers for pet food, birdseed, and any edible items.
• Declutter: Keep storage areas organized and avoid stacking materials directly on the floor.
• Remove outdoor attractants: Clear brush, tree limbs, and debris near garage entrances.

Are Mice in the Garage a Risk to Your Home?

Yes. Mice often start in the garage and can quickly move into the main house, exploring wall voids, attics, and basements. They can contaminate food, chew on wiring, and spread bacteria through their droppings or the remains of dead rodents. Once they establish a nest, it’s only a matter of time before they explore other areas.

What to Do If You Discover Mice in Your Garage

If you notice a mouse nest, droppings, or dead rodents, it’s time to act. Homeowners in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Northern Colorado can rely on EnviroPest, a locally operated pest control company specializing in rodent control and year-round home protection.

Our Colorado’s Choice Smart Service includes:

• Year-round pest protection for 30+ pests
• Four seasonal visits
• Rodent control with 24/7 digital monitoring
• Free re-treat service
• Comprehensive coverage for ants, spiders, wasps, and more

Don’t wait for an infestation to spread. Call EnviroPest today and protect your home from mice and other pests before they become a bigger problem.

Further Reading Related to Mice (and Rats)

Why Rodent Poisons & Other DIY Methods Don't Eliminate Mice

Mouse Nest In Home: Prevention & Control Tips 

Do Dryer Sheets Repel Mice & Other Mouse FAQs

What Attracts Rats To Yards & Homes

Four Signs You Have Mice In Your Ductwork

This blog was originally published on November 10, 2023; it has been updated to include relevant information.