4 Ways to Get Rid of Rats Naturally

Dealing with rats doesn’t always mean jumping straight to harsh chemicals or traps. In fact, there are several natural ways to deter and eliminate rats from your home or property—and the good news is, many of these methods are cost-effective and easy to implement yourself.

If you’re looking to stay eco-friendly or avoid using poisons, here are a few natural rat control methods that can actually work.

1. Remove Food Sources

Rats are opportunistic feeders, and the first step in getting rid of them naturally is cutting off their food supply.

• Secure your rubbish. Make sure all household rubbish is bagged (double bag if needed) and placed into secure bins with tight-fitting lids.
• Avoid leaving pet food out. Always remove your pet’s food bowl once they’ve finished eating.
• Remove bird feeders. These are a major attractant, especially if seed spills onto the ground.
• Pick up fallen fruit and nuts. If you have trees or plants that drop food, collect it regularly to avoid attracting rodents.

2. Seal Entry Points

Rats can squeeze through tiny gaps, so blocking access to your home is essential.

• Inspect the entire property. Look around walls, under the house, and near pipes or vents. Use wire wool or expanding foam to block any holes or gaps.
• Check the roof space. Turn off the lights and look for areas where sunlight shines through—these are likely entry points.
• Cover vents and chimneys. Use fine mesh to keep rats out while still allowing airflow.
• Seal cracks and gaps. Caulking and silicone sealant can be used to close off small spaces in walls, floors, and joinery.

3. Use Natural Repellents

There are a few smells that rats can’t stand. Using these natural deterrents won’t kill the rats, but they can help push them away from your property.

• Peppermint oil. Rats dislike strong scents like peppermint. Place a few drops on cotton balls and put them in areas where you suspect rat activity. You can also plant peppermint around your home for an added barrier.
• Garlic and onions. The smell is a strong deterrent for rats. Place chopped garlic or onions near known entry points or areas with signs of infestation. (Just be cautious with pets around onions—they can be toxic to dogs and cats.)

4. Keep It Clean

Cleanliness is a major factor in preventing and discouraging rat infestations.

• Declutter inside and out. Rats love hiding in piles of junk, overgrown areas, or storage clutter. The cleaner and more open your space is, the fewer places they have to hide or nest.
• Vacuum regularly. Make sure crumbs and food debris are cleaned up daily, especially in kitchens and dining areas.
• Wipe down surfaces. Keep benchtops, tables, and food prep areas clean and free of residue.
• Seal pantry items. Any open food packets should be stored in sealed containers or plastic bins to avoid attracting rats.

Still Seeing Signs of Rats?

While these natural methods can work well as a first line of defence, sometimes the problem is beyond DIY. If you’ve tried everything and rats are still sneaking in, it might be time to bring in the professionals.

At Total Pest Control, we offer eco-friendly pest control services across Wellington, Lower Hutt, and surrounding areas. We can assess the source of the problem, seal entry points, and treat the infestation using safe, low-toxic methods that protect your home and the environment.

Want help getting rid of rats the right way? Contact us today.