Honestly, I've tried those ultrasonic gadgets before and still ended up with mice partying behind my sink cabinet. Maybe they're deaf rodents or something? I'd probably stick to traps or peppermint oil... seemed to work better for me.
Those ultrasonic things always felt like snake oil to me—once found a mouse literally sitting on top of one, chilling like it was at the beach. Peppermint oil's decent, but have you checked if your plumbing fixture holes are sealed properly underneath?
Yeah, ultrasonic gadgets never did much for me either—mice seem to treat them like ambient spa music. I'd second checking fixture holes; grab some steel wool and caulk, seal those gaps tight... cheaper and way more effective than fancy gadgets.
"grab some steel wool and caulk, seal those gaps tight... cheaper and way more effective than fancy gadgets."
Totally agree with sealing gaps—just make sure you're using stainless steel wool, regular stuff rusts out pretty quick around moisture. Caulk afterward to keep it watertight... mice hate a properly sealed bathroom almost as much as I hate leaky faucets.
Good points about sealing gaps, but I'm curious—why steel wool at all? Even stainless steel wool can degrade over time, especially if it's constantly exposed to moisture. Bathrooms are notoriously humid, and I've seen even stainless steel wool eventually corrode or break down in damp environments. Wouldn't something like copper mesh or brass wool be a better long-term solution? Copper mesh doesn't rust, and rodents hate chewing through it just as much.
Also, caulk is great for sealing small gaps, but what about larger openings around pipes or fixtures? Expanding foam sealants designed specifically for plumbing applications might be more effective there. They fill larger voids easily and provide insulation too, which can help prevent condensation issues down the line. Just make sure you pick one that's waterproof and mold-resistant—otherwise, you're trading one problem for another.
Speaking of fixtures, has anyone considered fixture escutcheons or pipe collars? They're inexpensive, easy to install, and specifically designed to cover gaps around plumbing penetrations neatly. Plus, they look cleaner than a blob of caulk or foam. Sure, they're not a standalone solution against pests, but combined with proper sealing behind them, they offer a tidy finish and extra protection.
I guess my main question is: why rely solely on steel wool and caulk when there are other affordable options that might hold up better in the long run?
