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Introduction
Dealing with rats in your home or garden can be a frustrating and unsettling experience. While there are numerous traps and chemical repellents on the market, many homeowners are turning to safer, non-toxic alternatives. One surprising yet effective DIY method involves something you might already have in your medicine cabinet: Vicks VapoRub. Known for easing coughs and congestion, this menthol-based ointment can also serve as a powerful rodent deterrent. Here’s how you can use it to keep rats away for good.
Ingredients:
1 small jar of Vicks VapoRub
Cotton balls or swabs
Disposable gloves (optional)
Small containers or jar lids (optional)
Directions:
Put on gloves (optional): This helps avoid getting the strong menthol scent on your hands.
Scoop a small amount of Vicks using a spoon or your gloved finger.
Coat a cotton ball or swab with a generous layer of the Vicks.
Place the treated cotton near known or suspected rat entry points—behind appliances, in corners, along baseboards, inside cabinets, or under the sink.
For better placement and less mess, you can put the treated cotton in small open containers or jar lids before placing them around your home.
Repeat every few days, as the scent will fade over time. Reapply as needed, especially if you notice rat activity returning.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Storage: Keep the Vicks jar sealed tightly when not in use to preserve its potency. Store treated cotton balls in sealed containers if you're preparing them in advance.
Longevity: Refresh the cotton balls every 3–5 days, or sooner if the smell diminishes.
Safety tip: Keep treated cotton away from pets and children, as ingestion could be harmful.
Variations:
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