Among different aspects, related to home comfort and maintenance, preventing pests from getting into the house is one of the most important tasks. Such insects as cockroaches, ants, or rodents may contaminate the household food supplies and even spread diseases, while termites can significantly damage wooden structures. While traditional insecticides, such as sprays or baits, are considered highly efficient in pest extermination, they are quite toxic and may pose some health risks. Thus, in this paper, some natural pest control methods are presented, allowing people to keep their houses clean from unwanted pests and insects.
Natural Ways to Keep House Free from Pests
Among different methods, applied by households to get rid of pests, the most effective one seems to be the prevention of these insects’ penetration into the household premises. Namely, sealing all entry points and maintaining cleanliness should provide the desired results. Thus, regular cleaning should involve vacuuming and dusting all surfaces, mopping, and sweeping the floors, as well as throwing away garbage in time. Additionally, it should be noted that food and water should be kept in closed containers only to prevent attracting pests.
At the same time, people should remember about maintaining proper humidity and moisture level in their homes because it is also one of the reasons for attraction of some pests. For instance, if there are any leaks, it is necessary to check them and eliminate the causes of leaks to avoid pests’ intrusion. It is possible to use natural dehumidifier solutions, such as silica gel and activated charcoal, to decrease moisture levels in household premises.
The last but not least measure to be taken by homeowners in the process of pest control is the use of essential oils. Peppermint, lavender, and tea tree oils contain substances that repel some species of pests. Thus, it is possible to create a solution, using these essential oils, and to sprinkle them around the perimeter of one’s household.
How to Make Your Own Pest Repellents
As was already mentioned, using some ingredients and simple materials, it is possible to make effective insecticides and other pest-repellent solutions without spending much money. For example, a mixture of half of water and white vinegar will serve a purpose to drive ants and other pests away. At the same time, one may create natural ant spray by adding several drops of essential oil to water.
Another simple ingredient, which can be used as a means of pest repellent, is baking soda. Baking soda should be mixed with sugar, after which this mixture may be put into places with intensive pest activity. The pests, attracted by sugar, will die due to dehydration caused by soda.
Pest Traps Made of Natural Ingredients
To create simple but highly effective traps for pest, one needs only natural materials. Thus, it is possible to suggest making of the sticky trap with the help of a mixture of sugar, water, and corn syrup. It will attract pests, which then become attached to the substance. Another trap may be created with the help of a mixture of sugar, water, and several drops of apple cider vinegar. It is needed to place this mixture in a jar, bowl, or any other similar container.
Pest Deterrents – Plants and Herbs
It should be noted that some herbs possess natural properties, which allow them to repel some pests. Thus, planting them in household spaces may help get rid of insects. Basil, mint, and lemongrass are among the best insect repellers, which can be planted in the house. On the other hand, it is also possible to use essential oils from these herbs to drive pests away.
Products for Natural Pest Control
In the modern market, people can find numerous types of pest control products, created by manufacturers with the help of natural substances. Among such products, there are some which include diatomaceous earth, a kind of natural powder, which dehydrates and kills pests. Neem oil serves as a natural insecticide, as well.
Thus, when buying any pest control product, one should always read its labels, as only products free from toxic substances should be purchased. In addition, people can make such products themselves using simple means like baking soda and sugar.
Conclusion and Recommendation
To conclude, there exist numerous means of maintaining household spaces clean from pests. These measures include both preventive actions and means, aimed at pests’ killing or driving away from household premises. People should keep their homes clean and maintain proper conditions and use natural solutions as effective tools for getting rid of pests.
