Without doubt, we all look forward to the hot summer days that are literally on our doorstep. We associate summer with long and sunny days, days spend at the pool and beach, camping trips, long walks, etc. but there is something we all dislike about it- the annoying insects and bugs!
How to Get Rid of Pests in Your Home
In most cases, people reach for store-bought insect repellents; however, the problem with these products is that they are filled with chemicals which can be bad to our health. This is why you should instead opt for a natural insect repellent that is more effective and safer. Below, check out our natural tips for the removal of bugs and insects from your home.
Natural Ways to Eliminate Bugs
- Remove any standing water
Mosquitoes are known to thrive in standing water. Therefore, get rid of any containers with water and trim the grass regularly.
- Avoid using scented toiletries
Did you know that bugs are attracted to fruits and flowers? Hence, your strawberry and mango shampoo may be their target.
- Citronella
Bugs and insects cannot stand citronella, which can be found in candles, lanterns, and torches. You can also plant it in your yard.
- Soybean oil
One study has shown that bug repellents made with this oil put off mosquitoes for 94.6 minutes.
- Lighter clothes
Dark colored clothes are a common target of mosquitoes.
- Relaxation
Stress is often associated with surplus sweating during which our body secrets pheromones and hormones that insects are drawn to. Try to calm down to make them go away.
- Sugar and baking soda
Mix equal parts of baking soda and sugar and sprinkle the content throughout the house. Cockroaches will be attracted by the sugar and the baking soda will enter their digestive system and kill them.
- Vanilla extract
Mix some vanilla extract and water and place it in different areas of your home.
- Cedar
Moths dislike cedar. Therefore, put cedar blocks in your closets and drawers.
- Peels from citrus fruits
Rub the areas of your home where you often see spiders with the peel of a lemon or an orange.
- Garlic
When we eat garlic, the body begins secreting it and the bugs will avoid it. If you do not want the garlic breath which comes with its consumption, pour some garlic spray onto different areas of your home instead.
- Lemon eucalyptus oil
In addition to repelling mosquitoes, it can help you avert deer tick bites.
- Onion
Take several onion rings and put them in a bowl with water and place several bowls throughout the house.
- Dryer sheets
When you are outdoors, place several dryer sheets in your pocket to keep mosquitoes and flies at bay.
- Cucumber
Cut several cucumber slices and leave them on the kitchen counter.
- Baby powder
Sprinkle it throughout your house and yard.
- Chalk
To get rid of ant infestations, draw lines with chalk throughout different floor areas of your home.
- White vinegar
Dissolve it with some water and spray different places of your house or flat to put off ants.
- Fragrant herbs
Place some herbs near the front and back door. Opt for basil, garlic, mint, bay leaves, etc.
- Cinnamon
Sprinkle the areas where you notice bugs the most with cinnamon.
- Clean the house regularly
Dusting, vacuuming, and regular washing of surfaces will decrease the appearance of bugs and insects in your home.