If you have mice or rats in your house, you may have wondered which is better: baits or traps. Every year, people ask us this question at Blue Duck Pest Control. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners with rodent prevention in Indianapolis and taught them which methods work best for long-term results. Both options can be helpful, but one usually gives better results over time.
“Should I use traps or baits to get rid of rodents?” is a question we get a lot at Blue Duck Pest Control Indianapolis. Both ways can work, but one is better for getting results that last. Let’s go over the differences so you can choose wisely.
How to Use Traps for Effective Rodent Prevention in Indianapolis
Traps are one of the oldest and most direct ways to catch and kill mice. They catch or kill rodents without using any chemicals in your home.
Pros of Using Traps:
- You can see when they’re working, so it’s easy to keep an eye on them.
- They work fast if you know where the rodents are living.
- They don’t hurt pets or kids.
Traps have some downsides: they only work on small infestations, you have to check and reset them often, and they don’t get rid of rodents hiding in hard-to-reach places.
Traps can be a good short-term fix if you only see one mouse. But traps alone don’t usually work when a population grows or spreads through walls and attics.
Rodent Baits for Long-Term Control in Indianapolis Homes
Rodent baits are made to attract rodents and eliminate them after consumption. They are often put in tamper-proof bait stations—safe boxes that let mice and rats enter, eat the bait, and leave without putting kids or pets in danger.
Benefits of Using Baits:
- Works well for large infestations
- Can find hidden colonies and nests
- Provides long-term protection when professionals maintain them
Baits don’t work as well if they’re not placed correctly. You also need to know how to use them to avoid secondary poisoning risks, and results take longer than with traps.
For lasting results, many rodent prevention Indianapolis experts recommend pairing baits with proper sealing and cleanup.
The Best Approach to Rodent Prevention: Combining Both Methods
The truth is that neither method will always work perfectly on its own. The best long-term solution is to use a mix of:
- Strategic bait placement to get rid of active rodents
- Targeted trapping for quick results
- Exclusion work (sealing entry points and gaps)
- Ongoing monitoring to stop new infestations
We use both traps and baits as part of our integrated rodent management program at Blue Duck Pest Control Indianapolis. Our techs find entry points, nesting spots, and food sources—then build a plan to keep rodents out for good.
Final Thought: Treat the Cause, Not Just the Symptoms
Traps can help you deal with a problem right away, but the best way to keep rodents away for good is to use rodent baits that are maintained by professionals. You can avoid the stress and surprise of scratching noises at night by using both strategies along with regular prevention.
If you’re ready for year-round rodent prevention in Indianapolis, call Blue Duck Pest Control today to schedule your inspection and keep your home pest-free for the long term.