How To Clean Up Squirrel Droppings

Squirrel droppings can be a common sight for homeowners with a squirrel infestation. They pose a significant health risk due to the diseases and parasites they carry. Therefore, it’s crucial to clean up squirrel droppings safely and effectively. This comprehensive article will guide you through the process, providing multiple solutions and options to ensure you handle the situation appropriately.

Understanding the Health Risks Associated with Squirrel Droppings

Before delving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to understand the health risks associated with squirrel droppings. Squirrels can transmit several diseases, including Leptospirosis, Salmonellosis, Tularemia, and Roundworm. They can also bring ticks and fleas into your home, which can easily transfer to humans and pets. Ticks are particularly dangerous as they can cause Lyme disease, leading to stiffness, nerve pain, and inflammation of the spinal cord or brain.

Initial Steps to Take When You Notice Squirrel Droppings

Upon noticing squirrel droppings in your space, take the following initial steps:

1. Put on rubber or plastic gloves and a face mask to protect against germs and airborne particles.
2. Ventilate the area by opening doors and windows for at least 30 minutes.
3. Avoid sweeping or vacuuming the droppings, which can spread contaminants.
4. Spray the droppings with a bleach solution or an EPA-registered disinfectant until very wet, and let it soak for 5 minutes or per the disinfectant label instructions.
5. Use paper towels to wipe up the droppings and cleaning product.
6. Dispose of the paper towels in a covered garbage can that is regularly emptied.

Necessary Protective Gear to Wear When Cleaning Squirrel Droppings

When cleaning squirrel droppings, your safety should be your priority. The necessary protective gear includes:

1. A respirator or HEPA mask to protect against inhaling airborne particles and pathogens.
2. Durable gloves to prevent direct contact with the droppings and any contaminated surfaces.
3. Protective eyewear to shield your eyes from any splashes or particles during the cleaning process.
4. Biohazard-rated uniform or disposable jumpsuit for an extra layer of protection against contamination.

The Best Cleaning Agents for Squirrel Droppings

The cleaning agents you choose for squirrel droppings should be capable of killing any pathogens present. The best cleaning agents include:

1. A bleach solution.
2. An EPA-registered disinfectant.
3. Antibacterial and disinfectant cleaning products.
4. Enzyme-based cleaners for a more thorough clean.

Disposing of Squirrel Droppings Safely

After cleaning, the disposal of squirrel droppings is equally important. Follow these steps:

1. Put on rubber or plastic gloves.
2. Spray the droppings with a bleach solution or an EPA-registered disinfectant until they are very wet. Let it soak for at least 5 minutes or per the disinfectant label instructions.
3. Use paper towels to wipe up the droppings and cleaning product.
4. Place the used paper towels in a sturdy, thick plastic bag.
5. Tie the ends of the bag together in a knot to seal it. Place the full bag in a second plastic bag and seal that bag by tying the ends together in a knot.
6. Dispose of the bag in a covered garbage can that is regularly emptied.

Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the droppings and disposing of them.

Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations

Prevention is always better than cure. To avoid future squirrel infestations, you can:

1. Block entry points to your yard and home by sealing any holes or gaps.
2. Install motion-activated sprinkler systems in your yard.
3. Use heavyweight mulch, stones, or decorative rocks on the surface of your soil.
4. Treat seeds, bulbs, and flowers with taste repellents or plant strongly-scented plants.
5. Use squirrel-proof bird feeders.
6. Keep your yard clean by removing fallen nuts, acorns, and berries.
7. Install tall fencing or netting around gardens or bushes.

Signs of an Ongoing Squirrel Infestation

Identifying an ongoing infestation is crucial to prevent further damage to your property and potential health risks. Look out for strange noises around your home, damage to your home, squirrel droppings, nests, foul odors, an increased squirrel population in the area, and misplaced woodchips or insulation.

In conclusion, cleaning up squirrel droppings is a crucial task that homeowners need to handle with care. Following the steps outlined in this article can help you manage this task effectively. However, if you’re uncomfortable or unsure about handling it yourself, don’t hesitate to hire a professional wildlife control service.