How To Use Bait Stations

If you have a mouse or rat problem at home, the good news is you’ve got options, and you don’t always need to jump straight to expensive solutions. DIY methods can be a cost-effective way to deal with unwanted pests, and when used properly, they can be just as effective.

One of the safest and most practical methods of DIY pest control is the use of bait stations. These are especially useful if you have children or pets, as they are designed to keep poisoned bait securely out of reach.

However, if you're using a bait station for pest control, it isn’t enough to just put it down and hope for the best. So in this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to use a bait station effectively. We'll discuss how to choose the right pest control product for the rodent you’re dealing with, how to add bait correctly, and exactly where to place your bait stations for maximum effectiveness. By the end, we hope you will feel confident using bait stations to keep your home pest-free. 

Finding the right product.

Bait stations come in a range of sizes and designs, each suited to different types of pests. If you’re dealing with mice, smaller bait stations are the way to go. They’re small enough to fit into tight spaces where mice tend to hide, like under cupboards, behind appliances, or beneath furniture.

For larger rodents like rats, you’ll need something a bit more robust. Large or heavy duty bait stations are designed with durability in mind. Not only can they handle bigger pests, but many are also suitable for outdoor use and built to withstand all weathers. Some models can even deal with multiple rats at once, making them a solid choice for more serious infestations.

If you’re unsure which size is right for you, take a look at our video below, it shows the different options and helps you pick the best fit for your problem. 

Now you’ve got your bait station, it’s time to get familiar with its features and how to use it effectively to deal with unwanted mice and rats.

The Eco Pro bait stations come with a lock-and-key feature, keeping children and pets safe from the poisoned bait inside.  But which bait should you use? One option is bait blocks. These are solid blocks of poison that rodents will chew on, causing them to ingest the poison. Included with the bait station is a metal rod. The bait blocks usually have a hole in the center which you can use to thread them onto the rod, after which you secure the rod in place inside the bait station. You don't have to use bait blocks, you can use other types of bait like food or liquid baits. These can be placed in the removable tray to contain them, making it easier to clean.

For more information on choosing the best bait, check out our blog: Liquid Bait, Pellet Bait and Bait Blocks – What’s the Difference?

Where should I put them? 

For effective use, it’s important to place your bait stations in the right locations. You might have  come across terms such as  “pathways” or “active runways” in your research. These refer to the routes mice and rats tend to follow, usually along walls, fences, and in corners of room.

If you have found nesting areas this is another great place to put the bait stations. Depending on how large the infestation is, you may need to use multiple stations in different locations at the same time. Most of our bait stations come with a bracket that  can be used to secure them to the ground or to a wall, to keep them in place. Check the stations regularly, you may need to add fresh bait. 

Getting rid of mice or rats doesn’t have to be complicated and expensive. With the right bait station, the correct bait, and smart placement, you can take control of the problem in a safe and effective way. We hope our advice can help you tackle the issue and keep your home pest-free.