How To Keep Squirrels From Chewing On Patio Furniture

After spending a considerable amount of money on my outdoor patio furniture, I was devastated to find out that squirrels were using it as their personal chew toy. Not only did it look unsightly, but it also damaged the furniture and left me with a hefty repair bill. I decided to research and experiment with different methods to keep squirrels from chewing on my patio furniture. Here’s what worked for me.

Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Remove Food Sources

Squirrels are attracted to food sources, so start by removing any bird feeders or pet food from the area. Store trash and compost bins away from your patio as well.

Step 2: Use Repellents

There are several natural repellents that work well in keeping squirrels away from your furniture. Some of these include peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, and vinegar. Spray these repellents on the furniture, and the scent will keep the squirrels at bay.

Step 3: Install Physical Barriers

Physical barriers, such as chicken wire or mesh netting, can be used to protect your patio furniture. Cover the furniture with the barrier, and the squirrels won’t be able to access it.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Use squirrel-proof bird feeders to prevent squirrels from coming into your yard.
Plant squirrel-resistant plants around your patio.
Use a motion-activated sprinkler to scare away squirrels.
Place mothballs around your patio furniture to keep squirrels away.
Use a squirrel baffle on your bird feeder to prevent squirrels from climbing up the pole.
Apply a bitter apple spray to your furniture to discourage squirrels from chewing on it.
Use a humane trap to catch squirrels and relocate them.
Install a squirrel-proof trash can to prevent squirrels from getting into your trash.
Use a squirrel deterrent spray on your patio furniture.
Hang shiny objects, such as CDs or mirrors, around your patio to deter squirrels.

Pros and Cons

Using natural repellents and physical barriers to keep squirrels from chewing on patio furniture is a cost-effective and humane solution. However, it may require some time and effort to apply these methods properly. Additionally, some repellents may only work for a short time, and squirrels may become accustomed to them over time.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After trying several methods, I found that using a physical barrier, such as mesh netting, was the most effective way to keep squirrels from chewing on my patio furniture. It was simple to install and didn’t require any maintenance. However, I also used natural repellents, such as peppermint oil, to reinforce the barrier’s effectiveness. I suggest trying a combination of methods to find what works best for your situation.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Can squirrels chew through metal mesh netting?

A: Squirrels can chew through some types of metal mesh netting, so it’s important to choose a durable and heavy-duty option.

Q: Is it safe to use cayenne pepper on patio furniture?

A: Yes, cayenne pepper is safe to use on patio furniture and is a natural repellent that won’t harm the squirrels or the furniture.

Q: How often do I need to reapply natural repellents?

A: It depends on the type of repellent and the weather conditions. Generally, it’s best to reapply natural repellents every few weeks or after a heavy rain.