4 Ways To Naturally Keep Mice Away From Your Insulation

If you’re seeking natural methods to keep mice away from your insulation, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve been in your shoes before, and I’m here to share my in-depth knowledge of various items you can use to repel these pesky creatures.
Let’s begin with a list of your new best friends: aluminum foil, copper mesh, caulk, steel wool, and spray foam! All of these materials possess unique qualities that are extremely effective in keeping mice at bay.
For example, using steel wool to seal small holes in your home is sure to keep those whiskered troublemakers away! Mice absolutely hate the feeling of steel wool, making it the perfect material to block their entry points.
Another great option is copper mesh. It’s both durable and flexible, so you can mold it into any shape to fit gaps throughout your home! Plus, mice are less likely to chew through copper mesh compared to aluminum foil.
Caulk and spray foam are also valuable tools that provide long-lasting protection against these pesky critters. But remember, always stay safe and take necessary precautions when handling these materials!
Key Takeaways:
- Use natural methods like aluminum foil, copper mesh, caulk, steel wool, and spray foam to keep mice out of insulation.
- Seal up small holes and gaps in your home to prevent mice from entering.
- Choose materials that are durable, flexible, and unappealing for mice to chew through.
Why Mice Find Insulation Attractive

Let’s go over a few reasons why mice love insulation. Here’s a handy table listing some of the common ways that mice use our insulation:
Type of Insulation | How Mice Use It |
---|---|
Fiberglass | Mice may use fiberglass insulation to create nests or burrows, as the material is easy to shred and mold. |
Cellulose | Mice may use cellulose insulation to create nests or burrows, as the material is soft and easy to manipulate. |
Spray Foam | Mice may not be able to use spray foam insulation as easily as other types, as it hardens quickly and is not as easy to shred or mold. However, if there are gaps or holes in the spray foam, mice may be able to use those as entry points. Check out our article for the best spray foams to use! |
Mineral Wool | Mice may use mineral wool insulation to create nests or burrows, as the material is soft and easy to shred. |
Reflective Foil | Mice may not be able to use reflective foil insulation as easily as other types, as it is not a soft material that can be shredded or manipulated. However, if there are gaps or holes in the reflective foil, mice may be able to use those as entry points. |
Shelter and Nesting Materials
Did you know that mice just adore your house’s insulation? It provides them an excellent spot for nesting and shelter… lucky them! So, you might be wondering why these little critters find insulation so darn attractive. Well, I’ve got you covered!
Mice are known for their penchant for finding creative living spaces, and the insulation in your walls or attic is no exception! They love the availability of nesting materials (it’s like a bedding store for them) and the protection it provides from predators.
These mischievous creatures also find your food sources quite accessible from their insulated home. With easy access to your kitchen and pantry, mice are living the high life in their snuggly abode.
Thermal Insulation
Another bonus for these furry house guests is the thermal insulation. They can’t resist the warmth and comfort that insulation offers.
Now that we’ve identified what makes insulation attractive to mice, let’s discuss how to keep them out. Here are some natural methods homeowners can use to repel these unwanted visitors:
– Aluminum foil: Mice dislike the sensation of aluminum foil on their paws. Wrap it around entry points or lay strips where you suspect they’re getting in.
– Copper mesh: Mice can’t chew through copper mesh, making it great for sealing any gaps.
– Caulk: Applying caulk is an effective way to close small gaps and cracks in walls. Mice won’t be able to squeeze through!
– Steel wool: Mice find steel wool unpleasant to chew on. Stuff it into any openings that might be allowing them entry.
– Spray foam: Seal off larger gaps effectively with expanding spray foam. It’s not only a barrier but also a deterrent due to its texture, and mice can’t chew through it!
4 ways to keep Mice Out Of Your Insulation

Mice can be a real nuisance to have around. They’re sneaky, small, and able to fit through the tiniest of spaces! Penn State University tells us that mice can fit through holes that are the size of a dime – pretty small! One way to keep these pesky critters out is by sealing those small holes and cracks around the home.
Let’s discuss different items like aluminum foil, copper mesh, caulk, steel wool, and spray foam that will help you keep these furry invaders at bay.
Aluminum Foil: A shiny deterrent! Mice dislike the sound and feel of aluminum foil, so lining your insulation entrances with it can help keep them out. Simply wrap the foil around pipes and other openings where mice might sneak in. Any aluminum foil will do, such as Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil.
Copper Mesh: Now, this is a secret weapon! Not only is copper mesh rust-resistant, but it’s also difficult for mice to chew through. To use this metal marvel, stuff small gaps and holes with the mesh, and voilà !—your insulation is mice-resistant!
Caulk: A trusty sidekick in the battle against mice. Sealing gaps and cracks with caulk can prevent mice from finding their way into your insulation. Remember to apply it both inside and outside your home for maximum protection. It’s like drawing an invisible line that mice can’t cross! I recommend using Coldbreak MESH Pure 100% Copper.
Steel Wool: A little scratchy, but oh-so-effective! Mice can’t chew through steel wool, making it an ideal material for plugging holes leading to your insulation. Place steel wool in any small openings and add caulk around it to hold it in place. Your insulation will be as secure as Fort Knox! Cloud Buyer’s Course Steel Wool Roll is a great choice for stuffing in gaps and holes near insulation.
Spray Foam: This is the cherry on top of your mice-proofing sundae. Spray foam can expand to fill larger gaps and act as a barrier. Just apply it in and around holes, and watch it work its magic. Mice don’t stand a chance! I recommend using Loctite Tite Foam Gaps & Cracks Spray Foam Sealant, it’s just the best!
You can also use flex seal as a spray foam alternative – check out our article on how to effectively use it!
Why these items are effective:
- Toughness: Mice have strong teeth, but materials like aluminum foil, copper mesh, and steel wool put up quite a fight. These materials are difficult (if not impossible) for mice to chew through.
- Sealing Ability: Caulk and spray foam help fill in gaps and cracks, leaving no room for mice to sneak their way in. Out of sight, out of mind!
That’s A Wrap!
So there you have it, the ultimate guide on how to mice-proof your insulation using natural methods. This short-and-sweet article has gone over a few items that are worth using to keep mice away from your insulation. These items include:
- Aluminum Foil
- Copper Mesh
- Caulk
- Steel Wool
- Spray Foam
Just remember to use these items effectively, and you’ll be well on your way to a mouse-free home. Happy mice-proofing!
Zack is a Nature & Wildlife specialist based in Upstate, NY, and is the founder of his Tree Journey and Pest Pointers brands. He has a vast experience with nature while living and growing up on 50+ acres of fields, woodlands, and a freshwater bass pond. Zack has encountered many pest situations over the years and has spent his time maintaining and planting over 35 species of trees since his youth with his family on their property.

Download My Free E-Book!
Take a look at my guide on Pest Proofing Your Home In Under a Day! I get into the nitty-gritty on the most common types of pests you’ll see on your property including BOTH insects and wildlife, along with the specific signs to look for regarding any pest you have questions about.