Cleaning hive after mice

When we went to get a hive out of storage to hive a swarm it had been used by mice during the winter. I cleaned it as best I could without using detergent. However I just couldn't get rid of the mouse smell. I still went ahead and tried to use it, the bees didn't like it. We didn't get the swarm. So my question is; Is there any way to use this hive in the future? Special cleaning methods? We are pretty new to Beekeeping.

How about painting it over again. It'll surely make it lose all smells.

You need to remove & replace the frames where the mice made their nest.
You can sand the wood down on the inside of the super, but DO NOT paint the inside.
Are you positive you got the queen when you tried to hive the swarm?
Even when you do, "scout bees" may have located a "better place" and everyone moved out. The only way to stop that is to put a queen excluder screen over the opening so she can't get out. When the queen doesn't go with, most or all of the bees will come back to the hive. After 2-3 days, you can take the screen off the opening.

Thank you for your advise. I don't know why I didn't think of sanding. I will be ready next time

Never use wood - as any individual who has managed mice and rodents knows, they are skilled at destroying wood with their sharp teeth to make ways for themselves.

Ah, dealing with mice in the hive can definitely throw a wrench in things! When they take over a hive during the winter, they leave behind a smell that bees aren't too fond of. It sounds like you did your best cleaning it out without using any harsh chemicals, which is great because you definitely want to keep things bee-friendly. To tackle that persistent mouse smell, you might want to consider using natural cleaners. A good scrub with vinegar can work wonders—it’s a natural disinfectant and deodorizer that won’t harm the bees. Alternatively, making a paste of water and baking soda can also help absorb and neutralize odors. Apply it generously, let it sit for a bit, then scrub and rinse well.

After cleaning, it’s crucial to let the hive air out thoroughly. Sunlight can also help eliminate odors, so if you can, let the hive sit out in the sun for a few days. This airing out process will help ensure that any lingering smells are gone before you try to introduce bees again. Remember, a clean, fresh-smelling hive is more inviting to bees, so taking these extra steps could really pay off. Keep at it, and with a bit more effort, that hive should be ready to welcome a new swarm soon. Good luck with your beekeeping—it’s a fascinating hobby!

clear out the mouse poo and wash within the crates and the base board with fade water to dispose of pee. The casings of honey and dust, you can set them out and allow your honey bees to burglarize them.