If you’ve noticed that you have a mouse problem, you’re probably trying to take care of it yourself, right? You set a few mouse traps and keep your fingers crossed that the little pest will be caught any day now. However, did you know that most people may not realize there’s a right way and a wrong way?

It’s not just a matter of setting traps; there are things you need to be aware of. You might do things that seem oh so logical, but you may never catch it. Here are some tips to give you the best chance of getting the pesky critter, otherwise, you’ll need to call in the pest control professionals.

1. Don’t Use Bare Hands

When you bait the trap, you probably use your bare hands to place the food, right? This is a big mistake. By doing so, you leave your scent on the bait and the mouse can detect this. This can actually deter the mouse from taking the bait or avoid it altogether. Instead, try using gloves to place the bait. You can use medical gloves or if you don’t have these on hand, dishwashing gloves will work just as well. In the event you catch a mouse, make sure to use gloves to protect yourself from disease.

2. Use The Right Bait

Forget about using cheese. That only works in the cartoons. Use peanut butter or hazelnut spread. Mice like nuts and seeds, so this will work better than cheese. They will also be tempted by chocolate. Mice want foods that have lots of calories.

3. Using Too Much Bait

It may be tempting to use more bait to entice them, but the problem with using too much is that they can take some of the bait without getting caught. A small amount, like the size of a pea should suffice. This will not only attract the mouse, but if too much bait is used, they can take enough of the bait without triggering the trap.

4. Don’t Expect Instant Results

When you first place a trap, prepare to be patient. Mice are very aware of anything new and will be extremely cautious. Place baits in traps but do not set them and let the mouse get used to it. If you notice the bait missing, you know that the trap is in the right spot. They will likely return, so do this for a few days. Once you notice that they keep taking the bait, the time has come to do it for real! Place the bait and set the trap.

5. Set Traps In The Right Places

It’s so easy to set traps in the wrong places. There’s no point in setting a trap in the middle of the kitchen. Instead, you need to place traps in dark corners and close to walls. Mice will be afraid of open spaces and tend to scurry around close to walls. When placing traps, make sure the trigger end and the bait is facing the wall. This way, they won’t walk around it but instead, they will explore it. Also, make sure to place traps behind stoves and cabinets. You can pull out the drawer of your oven which will make it easy for you to place the trap.

Here’s a golden nugget that most people would not think of. Many people may place a trap or two. What you should do is place many traps along the wall or wherever you’ve seen them. Also, place them all over your home and use different baits. This way, you’re bound to catch them on your first try. In the end, if none of this works, you’ll have to call in the experts, otherwise the mice will multiply quickly.