When mice show up, they rarely do it quietly. A scratch in the wall, droppings in corners, food packaging chewed overnight—it quickly turns from a minor annoyance into a constant source of stress. For people living in farmhouses or older homes, this problem is especially common. The challenge isn’t just getting rid of mice, but doing it without spending a fortune or turning the house upside down.

The first thing many people overlook is access points. Mice don’t need much space to get inside, and small gaps around doors, pipes, vents, or foundations are often the real invitation. Sealing these openings with basic materials like steel wool, mesh, or sealant can dramatically reduce new mice coming in. It’s not flashy, but prevention often does more than any trap alone.

Cleanliness also plays a bigger role than most expect. Food crumbs, open containers, pet bowls left overnight, and cluttered storage areas give mice exactly what they’re looking for. Simple habits—storing food in sealed containers, taking trash out regularly, and reducing hiding spots—can make a home far less appealing. When food sources disappear, mice are more likely to move on.

Many people turn to basic traps rather than expensive gadgets. Traditional snap traps, placed correctly along walls where mice travel, remain one of the most effective and affordable options. Some households also use strong scents mice dislike, such as peppermint, as a temporary deterrent. While these don’t eliminate an infestation on their own, they can help discourage activity in specific areas.

The key takeaway is that no single trick works in isolation. Affordable mouse control usually comes from combining small, practical steps—blocking entry points, removing food access, and using simple tools consistently. It’s not about quick fixes or miracle solutions, but steady changes that make the environment less inviting. Over time, those small efforts can restore peace without draining your wallet.