1421 Reviews
Are you a “decorate right after Halloween” kind of person or a “Christmas decor only goes up after Thanksgiving” kind of person? Either way, you probably look forward to pulling out your boxes of holiday decorations and being reminded of Christmases past as you look through everything inside.
As fun as it is to get into the holiday spirit by decorating your house, nothing kills that holiday spirit like finding mice in your boxes of decorations. Find out why mice hide in holiday decor and what you can do to make sure they don’t show up in yours with this helpful information from All-American Pest Control.
Why Do Mice Like Holiday Wreaths and Decorations?
Your holiday decorations may be festive to you, but to mice, they're basically luxury real estate. Live or artificial wreaths offer everything a mouse could dream of: warmth, shelter, and maybe even a little snack if there’s anything natural mixed in. The thick greenery acts like insulation, creating a cozy hideaway, and the ribbons? Perfect nesting material for a soft, comfy bed.
And it’s not just wreaths. Tree skirts and stockings are made of soft fabrics mice love to shred for nests, and cardboard boxes are incredibly easy for them to sneak into and chew up while they’re at it. In other words, your holiday décor can unintentionally double as a mouse starter home.
Add to that the fact that most decorations are stored in warm, quiet, low-traffic areas like attics, basements, garages, or sheds, and you’ve got a setup mice find pretty ideal. These tucked-away spaces make them feel safe and give them everything they need to settle in and stay awhile.
Where Are Mice Most Likely to Hide in Your Decorations?
Mice are very opportunistic. If they get into your holiday decorations, here are the most common places you may find them:
-
Inside the thick foliage or greenery of wreaths and garlands
-
Within the internal wire structure of a wreath
-
Among ribbons, bows, cotton, or fabric ornaments
-
In cardboard storage boxes, especially if left undisturbed for most of the year
-
Inside boxes stored in dark or cluttered corners of garages, attics, or closets
What Are the Signs That Mice Have Infested Your Stored Decor?
Although in a best-case scenario, you won’t find mice in your holiday decorations at all, the “good” news is that if they have moved in, you’re going to be able to tell pretty easily. Mice leave behind a lot of signs of their presence and activity, so it’s hard to miss an infestation. When pulling out your boxes of holiday decor, look for:
-
Rodent droppings are dark pellets about the size and shape of a grain of rice.
-
Gnaw marks on decor, light strings, or cardboard boxes.
-
Shredded material, such as fabrics, paper, or insulation tucked into corners.
-
A musty or musky smell.
How Can You Prevent Mice From Nesting in Holiday Storage?
If mice make their way into your holiday decorations, they can cause a lot more than a little mess; they can ruin sentimental items beyond repair. And beyond damaging décor, mice can be destructive to your home and pose health risks, which is why taking steps to prevent an infestation is always a smart move. To help keep mice out of your holiday storage, All-American Pest Control recommends:
-
Using airtight plastic storage bins instead of cardboard boxes
-
Avoid storing food-based decorations like popcorn garlands
-
Keeping storage areas clean, dry, and free of clutter
-
Storing boxes off the ground and away from exterior walls
-
Adding peppermint oil or other natural rodent deterrents to storage areas
What Should You Do Before Bringing Decorations Inside?
When it’s time to decorate, take some precautions to avoid bringing mice into your living space. You’ll want to inspect your decorations for any signs of mice before you bring them in. Do this by:
-
Shaking out all wreaths and garlands outside before use
-
Inspecting decorations closely for signs of droppings or shredded materials
-
Use gloves if checking storage that hasn’t been opened in months
-
Wiping down or rinsing outdoor-safe items to remove any debris or other pests
Contact All-American Pest Control for Holiday Mouse Control
Little felted mice might make cute Christmas tree ornaments, but real mice do not belong in your house at this time of year (or any time of year!). If you have reason to believe that mice have gotten into your holiday decorations, or if you want to make sure they never do, contact All-American Pest Control today. Our seasonal pest inspections and rodent control and prevention services are designed to protect your home and family, through the holidays and throughout the year. Get in touch with us today, and we’ll help you keep mice off your holiday guest list.
Your Trusted Nashville, TN Pest Control Experts
Since 1961, All-American Pest Control has been your go-to team of trusted pest experts for homes, businesses, and home builders throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Our expert team offers termite treatments, mosquito reduction, rodent removal, ant and spider control, and wasp nest removal—keeping your property protected year-round. As a local, family-owned company, we take pride in offering reliable, professional pest solutions with outstanding customer service.
We proudly serve: Columbia, Mount Pleasant, Spring Hill, Summertown, Williamsport, Culleoka, Hampshire, Santa Fe, Ashwood, Bigbyville, Campbells Station, Fly, Fountain Heights, Hopewell, Pleasant Grove, Sawdust, Scotts Mill, Screamer, Silver Creek, and the surrounding areas.
For trusted pest control in Nashville, TN, and these surrounding communities, contact All-American Pest Control today! Call (615) 824-8814 or Schedule a Free Consultation online.