Mice in ovens are more common than you’d think.
I didn’t want to believe it either, but when my coworker told a story about finding a mouse inside her oven while prepping Super Bowl snacks, my heart practically stopped.
It turns out it’s not that unusual. Mice are drawn to kitchens for warmth, shelter, and easy access to food — which makes appliances like ovens and refrigerators appealing nesting spots. Crumbs, grease, and cozy insulation only add to the invitation.
Unfortunately, mice can chew through wiring, damage your appliance, contaminate food, and even spread bacteria that pose real health risks.
Even if you’re not dealing with it right now, the idea alone is enough to make you double-check before preheating. How do they get in there? And more importantly, how do you make sure they don’t come back?
Here’s what you need to know to keep it from happening in your kitchen.
If we’ve just unlocked a brand-new fear for you, we’re truly sorry. That said, there are a few telltale signs that mice may have taken up residence in your oven:
If you suspect mice, it’s helpful to carefully pull the oven away from the wall and inspect the storage drawer and surrounding areas. These hidden spaces are common nesting sites and often the first place you’ll spot evidence of activity.
If you’ve made it this far, you have likely already confirmed the worst: There are mice in your oven. Not exactly what you want to discover before dinner. But why your oven of all places?
Simple. It checks every box on a mouse’s wish list.
Once mice find a spot that meets their needs, they’re unlikely to leave on their own — especially if there’s no disruption to send them looking elsewhere.
Mice can squeeze in through surprisingly small openings, including:
A mouse doesn't just appear out of nowhere. A mouse isn’t always just one mouse, either.
Spotting a single mouse often indicates others nearby. While one sighting doesn’t always mean a full-blown infestation, it’s still a warning sign that action could be needed to prevent population growth.
Setting mouse traps is a good way to get rid of mice fast, and products from companies like Wildlife Control Supplies or Animal Traps and Supplies are widely available. But traps aren’t a long-term fix. The most effective solution is exclusion, preventing mice from accessing your oven and kitchen in the first place.
Start by removing any nesting material and thoroughly cleaning crumbs, grease, and food residue. Next:
Products like our HY-GUARD EXCLUSION® Pest Armor® L-Mesh™ are designed to seal small gaps and block insects and wildlife from squeezing through. Made from durable galvannealed steel mesh, it creates a durable, chew-resistant barrier that helps prevent rodents from accessing structural gaps.
If you notice extensive nesting, chewed wiring, or recurring activity, it’s strongly recommended to contact a pest and wildlife specialist. And if you suspect wiring damage, stop using the oven and call a professional as soon as possible to avoid fire or shock risks.
This step is critical for both safety and reassurance.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing gloves and a mask during cleanup. If you’re concerned about potential exposure to rodent droppings, contact your local health department for guidance.
Continue monitoring your kitchen and follow up with a pest and wildlife professional if needed. And if you already have one on speed dial? Sounds like peace of mind.