How to Keep Mice Out of Your Grill: 6 Rodent-Proofing Tips

Summer is just around the corner, and that means grilling season is heating up! Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and enjoying a delicious meal outdoors with friends and family. But while you’re enjoying the sizzle, keep in mind—your grill might also be attracting some unwanted guests: mice.

Mice are often drawn to barbecue grills for warmth, shelter, and leftover food bits. If you think you already have an infestation, look for signs like feces, chew marks on wires and cords, and ball-shaped mouse nests made from assorted chewed-up materials. Not only is this very unpleasant, but mouse droppings and urine can be dangerous and carry multiple diseases that are harmful to people.

Whether you’re trying to get rid of mice in your grill or just hoping to keep them away, we put together ways to prevent this from happening so you can enjoy your outdoor grill all season long!

Why Do Rodents Like Your BBQ Grill?

Mice are attracted to quiet places near food sources and warmth, making your grill box an ideal spot for them to take shelter. This is especially true during the winter months when the grill isn’t being used and is left undisturbed for days, weeks, or even longer. It’s a perfect place for these unwanted guests to nest to escape the cold.

But even during the grilling season, mice can be a problem if you’re not taking the necessary precautions. These pests tend to favor grills over other areas of your patio because they provide protection from predators, and they may also be attracted to the smell of leftover food or grease. That’s why it’s important to proactively keep mice away at all times, not just during the grilling season, but also when you store them for the winter.

6 Ways to Keep Mice Out of the Grill

Mice in your grill can pose serious health risks and cause costly damage. Luckily, a few simple habits and preventative steps can make a big difference. Keep your BBQ pest-free by trying the following tips:

1. Keep Your Grill Clean

Keeping your grill clean is one of the most effective ways to make it less appealing to mice. Food residue and grease are major attractants, so it’s important to clean the grill thoroughly after each use. Use a grill brush or scraper to remove debris from the grates, then wipe down the grates and surfaces with a damp cloth. Regularly empty and clean the grease tray to prevent buildup.

Tailor your cleaning routine based on the type of grill you have:

• Gas grills: Burn off residue by turning the burners on high with the lid closed for 10–15 minutes. Let it cool, then scrub the grates and clean the grease tray.
• Charcoal grills: Once the coals are cool, discard the ashes and scrub the grates with warm, soapy water.
• Pellet grills: Clean out the hopper and grease bucket, and vacuum any leftover ash to maintain good airflow and performance.

A consistent cleaning routine not only helps prevent unwanted pests but also improves cooking results and keeps your grill in top shape.

2. Store Your Grill Properly

Storing your grill in a dry location, such as a garage or shed, can help prevent rodents from taking shelter inside it. Make sure to keep it elevated off the ground and cover it with a tarp or grill cover. Avoid storing it near any areas where mice may easily access it, like a compost bin, trash can, woodpile, or near walls.

3. Use a Grill Cover

Investing in a good zippered cover can help prevent mice infestations by keeping this appliance protected from the elements and inaccessible to rodents. Look for a cover made of durable materials like vinyl or polyester, and make sure it fits snugly so there are no easy entry points for any critters.

4. Use Stay Away® Rodent Botanical Repellent

Stay Away® Rodent by EarthKind® is a plant-based solution that will keep mice away from your grill. It is a mix of essential oils and other powerful botanical ingredients that repel mice naturally. This repellent is easy to use and can be placed in areas where they are likely to enter, such as around the grill or in the storage area where it’s kept during the off-season.

5. Try Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is a natural mouse repellent that can be used to keep mice away from your grill. The strong scent of peppermint is known to repel rodents and other pests. To use it, simply soak a few cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them around your grill. You can also mix peppermint oil with water and spray it around the perimeter.

You will need to inspect the grill regularly and repeat this process often, as the scent may dissipate quickly.

6. Block Holes with Steel Wool

Steel wool is another effective way to keep mice away from your grill because they cannot chew through it. Mice are known for their strong teeth and ability to chew through many materials, including wood, plastic, and even some metals. However, steel wool is too tough for their teeth to gnaw through, making it an effective barrier against them.

To use steel wool to keep mice away from your grill, place it in any gaps or openings that pests could use to gain access. For example, if your grill has a vent, you could place steel wool over the vent to prevent mice from entering. Additionally, if your grill has any gaps or openings, you could stuff steel wool into those areas to block off access.

Just be sure to remove the steel wool before using the grill again, as leaving it in place during cooking could be dangerous.

Is it Safe to Use a Grill After Mice Infestation?

If your grill has been infested with mice, it is important to take steps to sanitize it before using it again. Just as a reminder, these pests can carry a variety of diseases, and their droppings and urine can contaminate surfaces and food.

If your grill has been infested with mice, it is important to take steps to sanitize it before using it again. Just as a reminder, these pests can carry a variety of diseases, and their droppings and urine can contaminate surfaces and food.

However, if the infestation is extensive with heavy droppings, urine, or signs of chewing damage it may be safer to avoid using the grill altogether and consider replacing it. When in doubt, consult with a pest control or appliance professional.

How to Disinfect a Grill After Mice

If you’ve assessed the damage and determined your grill is still safe to use, follow these basic steps to clean and sanitize it. Always refer to your grill’s owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions and safety precautions.

Keep Your Grilling Area Sanitary and Chemical-Free

Keeping your outdoor grilling area clean and sanitary is important for both health and safety reasons. After each use, make sure to clean your grill thoroughly to remove any food particles and grease buildup. Additionally, avoid using harsh chemicals or pesticides around this area, as these can be harmful to both humans and pets.

If you have a mouse problem in your grill, don’t worry, as there are steps to both prevent them from entering and to get rid of them if they already have. Using a deterrent like Stay Away® Rodent by EarthKind is an effective way to keep pests away. You can buy Stay Away online or in a store near you.