Steel wool is a bunched-up mass of thinly shaved wire—usually a combination of carbon steel, aluminum, bronze, and stainless steel. It’s often used for cleaning, scrubbing, polishing, and sanding. Some people also use it to repel pests. But how does it work?
How Does Steel Wool Work for Pest Control?
When steel wool is used for pest control, it’s tucked into small cracks, crevices, and holes to prevent mice, rodents, and other pests from entering. While they can often chew through insulation or other barriers, stainless steel wool is too thick to gnaw. With no entry point, pests can’t get into your home.
Steel Wool for Mice
Mice can usually squeeze through spaces as small as a nickel or dime. And if they can’t, they will gnaw at the edges until the gap is big enough for them to crawl through. Steel wire wool offers a thick, flexible solution for filling gaps. When mice start chewing on the wool, it irritates their mouth and deters them from continuing.
You can easily implement steel wool mice deterrent strategies:- Locate all potential entry points: Do a sweep of your property to identify any small holes, gaps, cracks, or crevices where mice could enter. Remember, they’re likely to get into your home as the weather cools in their search for warmth and food.
- Insert the steel wool: Stuff all entry points with enough steel wool to block them off fully without overpacking. Steel wire wool is usually flexible enough for you to shape and reshape as needed.
- Cover the wool with sealant: For the best protection, apply sealant like caulk to the steel wool. This will hold the wool in place while solidifying the barrier.
Periodically check your steel wool blocks to ensure they’re holding up.
Does Steel Wool Repel Bugs?
What about other pests—do bugs hate steel wool? Steel wool will not repel bugs like it does mice. Its sharp, dense texture does not deter bugs. However, the wool bunches can be used to physically block bugs from entering your home.
Check areas around your doors and windows for cracks where bugs can enter. Fill them with the fuzzy wool and apply a sealant, such as expanding foam, to close off the potential entry point fully. Applying an extra sealant is important for repelling bugs because they can sneak through much smaller spots than mice.
Types of Steel Wool for Pest Control
There are different types of steel wool to consider for pest control, each with its own advantages. Steel wool differs mainly based on its coarseness and type of metal.
Fine Steel Wool
Fine-grade steel wool, also called mesh steel wool, is made with extremely thin wires. It’s very flexible and often looks like a ball of fuzz. It’s not as impactful for filling large gaps, but it can be great for filling small cracks around doors and windows.
Medium Steel Wool
Medium-grade stainless steel is coarse but still has quite a bit of flexibility. It’s best for small- and medium-sized holes or can be tucked around pipes and vents to help keep mice and other small rodents out of your home.
Coarse Steel Wool
Coarse-grade wool is thick and extremely durable. It’s ideal for filling large gaps and blocking rodents. It’s not as flexible as fine- or medium-grade steel wool, so it may not be easy to get into small cracks and crevices.
Stainless Steel Wool vs. Copper Steel Wool for Pests
Stainless wool is extremely durable and less likely to rust over time. However, copper steel wool can be a great pest control solution thanks to how lightweight and flexible it is. Plus, it is rust-resistant and will get stuck in rodents’ teeth, deterring them from coming back.
Essential Considerations for Using Steel Wool for Mice and Other Pests
Keep the following in mind before using steel wool for pest control:
- Flammable: Steel wool is very flammable and can catch on fire when exposed to any type of electrical spark. That’s why it should never be used near appliances, wiring, or other sources of electricity.
- Susceptible to rust and corrosion: Some types of steel wool can rust and break down over time, especially when exposed to water and moisture. This can cause staining and can re-open gaps to your home.
- Sharp to the touch: Steel wool can be sharp and should be handled with care to avoid scraping or scratching your skin. The small fibers can also become embedded in your skin, causing pain and irritation.
- Can be inhaled: If steel wool is ripped apart or damaged, the fibers can be inhaled. Avoid cutting or tearing the fibers and only do so with proper face covering and ventilation.
Blocking Pests From Entering Your Home With Professional Pest Control Services
If you’re looking for ways to keep your home pest-free, you might consider using steel wool to seal off potential entry points for rodent control. However, professional help is also available. Locally owned and operated, Mosquito Joe® offers a range of pest control services. Whether it’s mosquitoes or rodents, we’ll help keep unwanted visitors out of your home. Plus, our work is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise®; and our Mosquito Joe Guarantee for your peace of mind.
Don’t delay—call us today to get a free estimate!
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mosquito Joe is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mosquito Joe location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
