It is a struggle when it comes to keeping our houses pest-free. Notably, during this season when rodents and creepy crawlies are coming off hibernation. Chemical pesticides are also not highly recommended since it is toxic and harmful around your home, pets, and family. Some of these chemicals can also be harmful to your health.
So how do you get rid of these pests from your home using ingenious means? Below are some of the simple tactics which are safe, and effective in getting rid of your household pests.
Cockroaches
Apart from being disgusting features in your house, cockroaches also carry various harmful diseases. There exist many products which you can use from the store, but they are highly toxic. Below is a cheap and straightforward technique which works magic in your house.
Chop onion and one tablespoon of baking soda. Place the mixture in the corners of your house. Continue to reapply the dough daily until you cannot spot any cockroaches in your home.
Ticks
Ticks come in a range of different sizes and color. It is essential to protect yourself, your pets, and family from these destructive creatures since they are very harmful. If you don’t prefer applying toxic chemicals on your pet’s fur or skin, here is a natural means of getting rid of ticks.
Tick repellent for humans
Using rose geranium essential oil, mix 20 drops with ten drops of sweetgrass essential oil. Add five drops of essential lavender oil with five drops of lemon essential oil or citronella. Add a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol and dilute the mixture to a 100 ml bottle of vinegar or water and transfer the potent to a spray bottle. Shake well the mixture and spray it on your clothes before you go outside.
For pets use only
Pets are the most targeted victims of ticks; it is therefore recommended that you check their fur frequently, especially after they have been outside. Mix 20 drops of rose geranium and two tablespoons of almond oil and pennyroyal essential oil. Place a few drops on the collar of the dog and its fur. However, this method is not recommended for cats or pregnant animals.
Garden Pests
This includes spider mites, aphids, and other garden pests which are destructive in your garden. There are various pesticides which can be used, but if you have vegetables or fruits in your garden, it can be risky for your consumption.
Mix half a cup of hot peppers with half a cup of garlic. Blend the concoction until it forms a thick paste. With the thick paste, pour with a half a liter of warm water. Let the portion settle for 24 hours while stored in a warm place. Shake the concoction and spray it on your plants.
Spiders
The thought of having spiders in your house, whether poisonous or non-poisonous, can give you restless nights. These scary creatures can form their home in corners or even the basement.
Natural repellents won’t kill the spiders, but it will keep them away from your house since they don’t like the potent smell. Add ten drops of peppermint oil in a mix of 200 ml of water and a quarter-tablespoon of liquid detergent. Shake well the mixture and spray the mixture into the affected areas weekly. You can alternatively substitute the peppermint oil with eucalyptus, lavender, or tea tree oil.
Ants
Ants are harmful creatures which appear out of nowhere. They are common, especially in the kitchen or pantry where they are food particles. In case ants are creating a menace in your kitchen, here are some natural alternatives you can use to create a harsh environment for their survival.
Ants hate the smell of cinnamon. Therefore, place the cinnamon powder in areas where ants frequent in your home. To achieve effective results, add some essential oils to the cinnamon powder. You will get that earthy fragrance in your home.
Dust Mites
There are tiny creatures which cannot be seen with our naked eyes. They thrive in households filled with dust and prefer warmer places. The most likely place to find these creatures is in your bed. Even though these dust mites don’t bite, it is believed by specialists that these creatures cause skin irritations and allergic reactions.
Mix 6 tablespoons of eucalyptus oil with 1 and a half tablespoon of liquid laundry detergent into a bucket of water and soak the washable items. In case the items are not washable, spray, and wipe using a clean cloth. In case you are not a favorite of eucalyptus oil, you can substitute it with tea tree oil, which is also useful.
Weevils
These bugs flourish, especially when you leave flour, rice, or cereal in your kitchen. Weevils also prefer seeds or grains but also can appear on the floor.
According to specialists, weevils do not like the smell of cloves or bay leaves. Drop a bay leaf or clove on top of your food and around containers where you keep these things far away from your kitchen.
Gnats and Fleas
These irritating bugs thrive well in moisture conditions around your home. For gnats, getting rid of them naturally includes the use of vinegar and dish soap. For fleas, they thrive well in pets or hide in your carpets and upholstery. The first means of treating includes using your vacuum cleaner.
General Preventive Tips for Getting Rid of Pests
● Seal holes and cracks outside your home, including entry points for pipes and utilities.
● Store garbage into a sealed container and remember to dispose of regularly.
● Replace and repair of loose mortar in your basement and windows
● Keep your attics, basements and crawl places well ventilated and dry
● Ensure you trim branches and shrubs around your home.
In case the pest menace persists even with these methods, you can opt for pest inspections on the Gold Coast for professional services. They offer excellence in pest control and termite management with the services which you deserve. They are a local and family-owned firm which makes your home a better place.