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Insects are beneficial to the environment in a lot of ways–especially when they are outside where they belong. Although there are people who are fascinated with bugs, many will agree that insects don’t belong inside of the house. Some create unsanitary conditions and many are just plain annoying, from the buzz of a fly to the itchy bite of the mosquito. Bees and wasps sting when provoked and ticks carry diseases that they transport to pets or humans. The common cockroach is also one of the major contributors towards allergies and asthma attacks, particularly in children. When you see that your house is home to these pests, then it’s time to call pest control.
As much as you would like to eradicate these insects’ existence with the good old bug spray, there are DIY methods and preventative procedures that you can do without using any harsh chemicals. You don’t have to turn your house into a chemical-soaked zone. Here are some natural and DIY ways you can do to keep bugs from invading your home:
Invest in Herbs
One of the best and most natural ways is to become a herb gardener. There are a lot of herbs that are known as insect repellents and most of them are easy to grow. Although some herbs need a little maintenance, many of them don’t mind a little shade. Mint and tansy are great for repelling ants while lemongrass or anything with a lemony scent can be used to keep mosquitoes away. Catnip is also great as a mosquito and cockroach repellent. Just keep an eye on the catnip if you have a pet cat. Your feline may enjoy this plant too much and, if ingested in large qualities, can cause mild diarrhea.
Use Essential Oils to Deter Bugs
No, don’t reach for that bug spray–make your own spray instead. Insects react to scents, meaning they are attracted to some and repelled by others. Specific oils target certain insects so choose one to target your biggest pest concern. For example, lavender is great against mosquitoes, chiggers, fleas, and flies. Peppermint can keep spiders and ants at bay while rosemary does a good job preventing fleas and ticks from invading your home. To make your spray, simply mix 2 1/2 teaspoons of the oil of your choice with 1 cup of grain alcohol (like vodka) in an empty spray bottle. Mix then mist throughout your house.
Clean and Seal Everything
Since insects, especially ants, are drawn to the smell of food, you can wipe your countertop, sinks, and tables with a solution made from 1 part vinegar and 1 part water to remove odors and food particles. Fix leaky faucets as well and make sure the drains are clear from leftover food. To do this, simply mix half a cup of vinegar to half a cup of baking soda then pour it down the drain. Wait for five minutes then pour boiling water to clear everything out. Last but not the least; keep dry food in sealed containers like jars and plastic containers.
Before you head straight for the toxic chemicals, which can harm the environment, your pets, and family, try these natural repellent hacks to keep the bugs outside your home and see the difference.
Jeric is a freelance writer that features food, lifestyle, travel, animals (mostly creepy crawlies), DIY subjects, and nature. He is an adventurer, taking on the world and everything it has to offer, may it be the good and the bad. He also has a weird love for reggae and sharks. See: Reggae Shark
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