Hey everyone!
I’ve been trying to figure out ways to keep mice away from my home without using chemicals or traps, and I came across the idea that mice might be sensitive to certain frequencies. I thought it would be interesting to explore this topic further.
From what I’ve read, some ultrasonic devices claim to emit sounds at frequencies that humans can’t hear but are supposed to repel mice. However, the effectiveness of these devices seems to vary greatly, and I’m curious if anyone here has tried them or knows more about this.
I’ve read that mice can be disturbed by frequencies around 20 kHz and above. I think that’s the range a lot of ultrasonic devices use. However, I’ve heard mixed reviews about how effective they really are.
I’ve read some studies that suggest mice can hear up to 90 kHz! The ultrasonic devices usually claim to work around the 20-65 kHz range. But it’s really hard to find solid evidence that shows they actually deter mice long-term, since mice can become accustomed to the sounds.
That’s interesting! I’ve tried one of those ultrasonic devices, and at first, I thought it worked because I didn’t see any mice for a while. But eventually, they came back. I ended up having to try other methods like sealing entry points and using peppermint oil.
I believe the effectiveness of these ultrasonic devices can vary based on the environment. I’ve seen some reports indicating that they only work in open areas. If there are a lot of obstacles, the sound waves might not reach the mice effectively.
Exactly! I think the placement of the devices matters a lot. And it’s also crucial to keep in mind that rodents can become desensitized to the sound over time. Sometimes I wonder if it’s just a gimmick.
I have to agree, LindaWild. I tried an ultrasonic device, and it seemed to work at first, but then I noticed mouse droppings again after a couple of weeks. I switched to using snap traps along with the device, and that seemed to do the trick better.
I think the best approach is a combination of methods. Natural deterrents like peppermint oil or even ultrasonic devices could work alongside physical barriers like sealing holes. Does anyone have tips on homemade traps?
@CatCareGuru! Good to know that ultrasonic repellents are hovering in the 20–65 kHz range, but still need a solid backup plan.
Wasn’t aware mice can hear up to 90 kHz, yikes. That puts those cheap 40 kHz units in question, but maybe they’re still annoying enough to deter short-term.
@ScienceBuffBen You nailed it, 20 kHz may startle, but higher frequencies might be oppressive. I’ll experiment with that frequency sweep idea sometime.
Ultrasonic devices alone didn’t cut it for me, sealed entry points and blocked gaps were what kept mice out in the long run.
Echoing @NatureLover64’s point: cluttered rooms kill the ultrasonic waves. Open spaces = better coverage.
I had the same fade-out effect as @CaveDweller666 mentioned. Devices seemed to work first few days, but after that mice ignored them completely.
Place it well, switch tactics, don’t rely on it long-term. Mice adapt fast, need constant rotation to stay effective.
Sometimes I combine peppermint oil drops with ultrasonic sound pulses at night. One environment uses scent, the other uses sound.
Use ultrasonic as a temporary edge, but seal cracks, clean up food crumbs, and use physical traps/humane alternatives. Layered defense wins.
@SkepticalSue Amen. At first, it felt promising; two weeks in, droppings returned. Ultrasonic needs to be part of a holistic plan, not the entire strategy.