Households urged to put cotton wool balls under sinks this November

A waste expert is urging households to put cotton wool balls under sinks and in corners this winter in a bid to repel a common and hazardous nocturnal pest.

Rats are a problem all year round, but in November there's even more dark hours available for these nocturnal creatures to sneak into your home or garage and chew through your food or wiring and scratch up your property.

That's why cotton wool balls are a good option, because you can soak them in strong scents rats hate as a way of keeping them at bay.

Nigel Kemp, waste expert from JWS, has put together his top advice on keeping rats out. As well as plugging gaps and cracks, households need to be careful to remove food sources.

But there are some cheap, easy scents you can use to repel the unwanted rodents too, and all it needs is a cotton wool ball.

Mr Kemp explains: "The key to keeping rodents away is a combination of strong scents, secure spaces, and smart prevention.

"From sealing up gaps and storing food properly to trying out quirky fixes like foil or essential oils, it's all about making your home as unwelcoming to rats as possible.

"Prevention always beats cure, once they're in, they're much harder to get rid of, so a few small changes now can save you a big headache later.

"Rubbish is one of the easiest food sources for rodents. By sealing bins tightly and removing strong food odours, you cut off their supply and force them to move elsewhere in search of an easier meal.

"Food scents are a major attractant, and rats have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell. By sealing food properly, you remove the aroma trail that draws them in and make access physically impossible, discouraging repeat visits.

"Clutter provides warmth, nesting materials, and a sense of security. A clean, organised space leaves fewer hiding spots and makes the area feel exposed and unsafe for rodents."

He added that lavender and peppermint in particular are good for repelling rats.

For the most effective repellent, you should soak cotton wool balls in these essential oils and place them in the corners of your house, as well as near bins or under basins.

Mr Kemp adds: "Soak cotton wool balls in essential oils and place them in corners, under sinks, or near bins.

"Why it stops rats: Strong botanical scents, particularly lavender and peppermint, can overwhelm a rat's sensitive nose. The odour masks the pheromone trails they use to navigate and communicate, making the space less appealing and harder for them to map."