After the holidays, increased garbage, stored boxes, and leftover food scraps can quickly attract rodents to homes, garages, and sheds if proper cleanup is delayed.
The period following the holidays is one of the most common times for rodent activity to increase around homes and cottages. While colder temperatures already push rodents to seek shelter, post-holiday habits often provide exactly what they are looking for. Increased food waste, temporary storage areas, and cluttered garages or sheds create easy access to food and nesting material. When cleanup is delayed, properties can quickly become attractive to mice and rats looking for warmth and a reliable food source through the winter months.
Garbage buildup plays a major role in post-holiday rodent problems. Leftover food, greasy containers, baking waste, and holiday meals tend to accumulate faster than usual, especially when routines are disrupted. When garbage bags are stored outdoors without secure lids, placed close to the structure, or left sitting for extended periods, rodents are drawn to the smell and begin feeding nearby. Once rodents establish a food source close to a home, they will actively search for entry points along foundations, siding, vents, garages, and rooflines.
Cardboard boxes are another commonly overlooked attractant after the holidays. Gift boxes, shipping cartons, and packaging are often stacked in garages, basements, sheds, or crawl spaces with the intention of being dealt with later. Cardboard absorbs food odours and provides ideal nesting material, making it extremely attractive to rodents. Stacked boxes also create dark, undisturbed areas where mice can nest unnoticed, often close to wall cavities or utility penetrations that allow them to spread throughout the structure.
Food scraps and seasonal food storage further increase rodent pressure around a property. Compost bins, green bins, bird seed, pet food, and pantry overflow can all sustain rodent activity through the winter. Even small amounts of spilled grain, crumbs, or food residue in garages, sheds, or storage rooms are enough to keep rodents active and nearby. Once food sources are established, rodents are likely to remain in the area and continue reproducing.
Proper cleanup after the holidays is one of the most effective ways to reduce rodent activity. Garbage should be sealed tightly and stored in rodent-resistant containers whenever possible. Cardboard boxes should be broken down and removed promptly rather than stored long-term. Food scraps, compost, and animal feed should be secured, and storage areas should be cleaned thoroughly to remove odours and residue that rodents rely on to locate food.
It is important to understand that cleanup alone will not resolve an active rodent problem. If rodents have already gained access to a structure, droppings, urine, and nesting material may be present in hidden areas such as attics, walls, or insulation. These contaminated areas require proper removal and sanitation, and any access points must be sealed to prevent re-entry. Without proper exclusion, rodents are likely to return even after thorough cleanup.
Addressing sanitation and clutter immediately after the holidays helps reset the property for the remainder of winter. A clean, well-maintained home is far less appealing to rodents and reduces the risk of ongoing damage and contamination as colder weather continues.
If you are seeing signs of rodent or wildlife activity around your property, addressing the issue early can help prevent further damage and contamination. A professional inspection can identify entry points and problem areas before the situation worsens.