Real Rodent Control Starts with Xcluder Exclusion
May 20th 2025
If you’ve been scouring the internet for rodent deterrents, you’ve probably come across some creative suggestions: peppermint oil. Dryer sheets. Cedar chips. Even Irish Spring soap.
These DIY hacks sound promising—after all, who wouldn’t want to keep mice out with a few household items? But there’s a big problem: they don’t work.
When it comes to rodent control, strong smells won’t stop a mouse. Rodents are driven by food, warmth, and access—and they’re not easily scared off by a whiff of mint. In fact, they happily live in the smelliest of sewers and alleyways, thriving in environments most people wouldn’t go near. So why would a little peppermint oil or soap be enough to drive them away?
The answer: It isn’t.
So, what does work? Professional pest control experts agree: the key to long-term rodent prevention is exclusion. And when it comes to exclusion, there’s one name professionals trust—Xcluder®.
Do Popular Rodent Repellents Work? Myths vs. Reality
Let’s break down some of the most common rodent “repellents”:
Peppermint Oil
Claim: Mice hate the smell and will stay away.
Reality: The scent fades quickly, especially in open spaces. Rodents may avoid it for a few minutes—but they’ll quickly return if food or shelter is nearby.
Dryer Sheets
Claim: The fragrance repels mice.
Reality: Mice will weave a dryer sheet right into their nest if the area around it offers warmth or food. Studies have shown they simply don’t care about any smell coming off the material.
Cedar Chips or Essential Oils
Claim: Natural oils repel rodents and insects.
Reality: Cedar may have some insect-repelling properties, but rodents often burrow directly into cedar mulch for nesting. And Essential Oils? It has no affect.
Irish Spring Soap
Claim: The strong scent keeps pests away.
Reality: This internet myth has been debunked repeatedly. There’s zero scientific evidence that soap stops mice—and plenty of evidence that it doesn’t.
These methods may offer peace of mind, but they’re not reliable. Rodents are incredibly adaptable, and they won’t abandon a good nesting site over a mild irritation.
Why Rodent Repellents Don’t Work: Understanding Rodent Behavior
Rodents are opportunistic survivors. They’ll go where it’s warm, dry, and close to food—whether or not it smells like mint. If there’s a way in, they’ll find it.
That’s why pest control professionals don’t rely on deterrents. Instead, they block entry entirely.
What Actually Works: Pest Exclusion
Exclusion is the practice of physically sealing the gaps, cracks, and holes rodents use to enter a structure. It’s safe, sustainable, and highly effective — making it the foundation of any long-term rodent prevention plan.
In fact, urban rodentologist Dr. Bobby Corrigan—one of the most respected voices in the pest control industry—has said:
“Exclusion is the most permanent solution we have in our toolbox.”
(Source: NPMA Technical Webinar Series)
Rather than treating symptoms, exclusion addresses the root cause: access.
Why Pest Control Professionals Use Xcluder for Rodent Exclusion
Xcluder products are designed specifically for exclusion—and they’re trusted by pest control pros, facility managers, and homeowners alike.
Proven Materials
Xcluder’s blend of stainless-steel mesh and poly fibers is chew-proof, weather-resistant, and long-lasting.
Tried-and-True Applications
From garage doors and dock levelers to gaps around pipes and foundations, Xcluder makes sealing easy and effective.
Professional-Grade, DIY-Friendly
Whether you’re a homeowner or a licensed pest control operator, Xcluder products deliver reliable protection without the use of chemicals or traps.
Top products include:
Stop Masking the Problem. Seal Out Rodents with Xcluder
If you want to keep rodents out for good, forget the dryer sheets and scented sprays. These quick fixes won’t stop a mouse from chewing into your home.
The solution isn’t in the air. It’s in the barrier you create.
Seal rodents out the way the pros do—with Xcluder.