How to protect washing machines from rats? (Easy Steps)

If you have a rat problem, you may be wondering how to protect your washing machine from these troublesome, unwanted, and annoying guests.

Rats can cause a lot of damage to your washer, and they can also spread disease.

Here are some reasons why you may want to protect your washing machine from rats:

• Rats can chew through cords and cables, which can cause a fire hazard.
• If your washing machine is not kept clean, rats can spread disease through their droppings.
• Rats can climb on top of your washing machine and get inside, which can cause damage to the machine.
• Rats can make holes in your washing machine, which can allow the water to leak out and cause damage to your floor or home.
• Rats can be very noisy, and their chattering can be very annoying.

One common challenge people have is that they don’t know how to protect their washing machine from rats.

Let’s be honest, It can be hard to keep rats away from your washing machine, especially if they have already found their way into your home.

With all that said, you can still take some preventive measures to protect your laundry machine from rats by organizing cords and cables, keeping your machine clean, and using a lid when not in use.

In this article, you will learn:

• How to keep rats away from your washing machine?
• How to get rid of rats if they have already entered the washing machine?
• Commonly asked questions
• And more…

Let’s get started.

To get rid of rats from your laundry machine, start by organizing the cables. As rats often attack the wires and cables.

Organize cords and cables

If you want to protect your washing machine from rats, it is important to keep your cords and cables organized.

Rats can easily chew through cords, and this can create a fire hazard.

By organizing the cords and cables, you can make it much more difficult for rats to damage them.

If rats have already entered your house, it will make sense for you to use a rat-repellant spray.

All you need to do is organize the cables and spray the repellant on vulnerable areas.

Having said that, if you are using a rat repellant, you must keep the cords and cables in a way that kids can’t touch them, as rat repellants are poisonous and it can be hazardous for kids if they touch the cords that have rat repellant all over.

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Keep your washing machine clean

If you want to protect your washing machine from rats, it is important to keep your laundry machine clean.

By keeping your machine clean, you can help prevent rats from causing any damage or spreading disease.

Having said that, Keeping the area around the washer is equally important. You should make sure that there are no food sources near the machine that might attract rats.

You can keep your washing machine clean by regularly wiping it down with a disinfectant. Furthermore, you should also clean the area around the machine, such as the floor and walls.

If you have a laundry chute, you should make sure that it is clear of any debris that might attract rats.

Also Read: How to clean a portable washing machine?

Use a lid when not in use

It is important to use a lid when the laundry machine is not in use, trust me this is the most important thing you can do to protect your washing machine from rats.

By using a lid, you can prevent rats from entering the machine and causing any damage.

If you have a front-loading washer, you should make sure that the door is tightly closed when not in use.

Also Read: How to troubleshoot a portable washing machine?

Plug up any holes or openings

By plugging up the holes or openings, you can make it more difficult for rats to get inside.

You can fill up the holes or openings with steel wool, rubber, or foam.

Lastly, make sure that the door to the machine is closed tightly and that there are no gaps around it.

Secure Electrical Switch Plates

Tighten electrical switch plates to prevent rats from entering through openings.

Ensure a secure fit to avoid potential damage to wiring.

Place your washing machine in an area that is not easily accessible to rats

If you want to protect your washing machine from rats, you should place it in an area that is not easily accessible to rats.

You should also make sure that the area around the machine is free of any food sources that might attract rats.

If you have a persistent problem with rats around your machine, you may need to call a professional.

A professional can help you get rid of rats and prevent them from coming back. Furthermore, A professional can also help you find and seal any holes or openings that might be allowing rats to enter your home.

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Use a rat trap

Placing a rat trap near the washing machine can be one of the best decisions.

This will help you to get rid of rats that are already inside your home and prevent them from coming back.

You can bait the trap with food that rats like, such as peanut butter or cheese. Once the rat is caught in the trap, you can dispose of it properly.

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Check for chattering sound

Sometimes, you may hear a chattering sound near the washing machine. This is usually an indication that there is a rat inside the machine.

If you hear this sound, it is important to take action immediately.

You should turn off the machine and unplug it from the power outlet post which you can check for rats inside the machine.

If you find a rat, you should remove it from the machine and take the necessary steps to prevent the rats from getting inside again.

Also Read: Top Load vs Front Load detergents

Check your washing machine regularly for any signs of damage or rodents

It is important to regularly check your washing machine for any signs of damage caused by rats. If you find any damage, you should take steps to repair it immediately.

If you find any evidence of rodents, such as droppings or chewed wires, you should take steps to get rid of the rats and prevent them from coming back.

Also Read: How to disinfect the washing machine without bleach?

Store detergent and supplies properly

Usually, the place where detergent and supplies are stored is prone to getting dirty over time.

This causes the rats to get attracted to the smell that comes from detergent and supplies.

Therefore, store these items in tightly sealed containers to prevent rats from being attracted to them.

Elevate the washing machine

If possible, place the washing machine on a raised platform or install it on a stand.

Also, ensure that the wires are not touching the floor as it will give rats a platform to climb inside the washer.

Use essential oils

Certain essential oils, such as peppermint oil, are known to repel rats.

So, try soaking the cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them near the washing machine or in areas where rats are likely to enter.

The strong scent can deter rats from approaching.

Utilize Cloves

Rats are deterred by the smell and taste of cloves.

Place clove pieces near the washing machine or use clove oil-soaked cotton balls.

Utilize ammonia

Rats dislike the strong smell of ammonia.

Therefore, mix equal parts of water and household ammonia and spray the solution around the washing machine or in areas where rats are active.

Be cautious when using ammonia, as it can be harmful if inhaled directly.

Consider a rat-repellent ultrasonic device

If possible, place an ultrasonic device near the washing machine to deter rats from the area.

Keep in mind that the effectiveness of these devices can vary, so it’s important to choose a reputable brand.

Store food properly

Rats are attracted to food sources, including pet food and human food.

Ensure that any food stored near the washing machine is kept in sealed containers to prevent attracting rats.

Regularly clean up any spills or food particles to avoid providing a food source for rats.

Call a professional

If you have a persistent problem with rats around your washing machine, you should call a professional. A professional can not only help you to get rid of rats but also take the necessary steps to prevent them from coming back.

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Conclusion

If you want to protect your washing machine from rats, take preventive measures.

This includes organizing cords and cables, keeping your machine clean, using a lid on top of the machine when not in use, plugging up any holes or openings, and placing the machine in an area that is not easily accessible to rodents.

If you have a persistent problem with rats around your washer-dryer unit, consider calling a professional who can help get rid of them

Also Read: 12 Answers you must know about laundry pods

Frequently Asked Questions

For more queries related to washing machines, you can always refer to our Washing Machine FAQ section.