Why preparation matters
A successful rodent treatment rests on two things: the technician must be able to spot the runways and entry points, and the rodents must no longer find easy food (or they'll ignore the bait). And above all: droppings are cleaned carefully, never dry.
Before the exterminator arrives
- Store all food in airtight containers of metal, glass or hard plastic — including pet food and bird seed.
- Take out the garbage, close bins tightly, wipe crumbs and surfaces.
- Clear basements, garages and storage areas along the walls to reveal runways and holes.
- Note where you've seen droppings, heard noises or spotted damage: it guides the inspection.
- If you've set your own traps or poison, tell the technician (often best to remove them).
Cleaning droppings SAFELY
Mice and rats can carry viruses (including hantavirus — rare but serious) found in urine, saliva and droppings. You breathe these particles in when you disturb droppings dry. The right method:
- Ventilate the room for 30 minutes first, and stay out during that time.
- Wear gloves (and a mask for larger areas).
- Dampen droppings and nests with a disinfectant or bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water), let it sit 5 minutes.
- Wipe with paper towel (don't sweep, don't vacuum), put it all in a bag.
- Double-bag and dispose in a covered outdoor bin. Disinfect surfaces, wash gloves before removing them, then wash your hands.
For heavy contamination, a HEPA-filter vacuum and a P100 respirator are recommended — which is also what a professional sanitation service uses.
During and after the treatment
The technician places secured bait stations and, above all, seals the entry points (the step most people skip). Keep food sealed for a few more weeks, don't move the stations, and keep the follow-up visit. Keep plugging any new hole and removing accessible food and water: that's what prevents a comeback.
Rats or mice at home?
Rodent control, sealing of entry points and a written guarantee. Service within 24h from $99 across Greater Montreal.
Frequently asked questions
Can I vacuum or sweep the droppings?
No, especially not dry: it sends potentially contaminated particles into the air. Dampen first with a disinfectant, then wipe with paper towel and dispose in a double bag.
Are mouse droppings dangerous?
They can carry viruses and bacteria. Hantavirus is rare in Quebec but serious: to be safe, always clean with gloves, disinfectant and without dry disturbance.
What should I prepare before the exterminator?
Put food in airtight containers, take out the garbage, and clear basements and garages along the walls so we can see the runways and holes.
How long to resolve an infestation?
Often a few weeks with an initial treatment, sealing of entry points and a follow-up visit. Speed depends on the scope and the number of entry points.