Even the crunchiest of home economists might reach for a bug killer when she sees a roach crawl across her countertop. Something about the little critters (or ants or termites or whatever is bugging you!) creeps us out. Thankfully we can employ non toxic pest control methods made from natural ingredients. Here are a few to try:
Natural Non Toxic Pest Control
Essential Oils – these are plant’s own pest control system.
Bay leaves – Ants don’t like them, so if you sprinkle them into your cupboards they may keep ants “at bay.” Cinnamon and cayenne are great to deter ants as well.
Clean – of course it goes without saying that bugs will be attracted to rotting food, so keep food sealed up and keep your trash cleans clean. A weekly wash with baking soda or vinegar works well. Cockroaches like water and a ready food supply. If you have pets, keep their food in an airtight container, preferably outside. Fix leaky faucets and don’t leave water or dirty dishes standing around.
Herbs – Plant rosemary and lavender and keep these in your kitchen.
Moths – to deal with grain moths (they love whole grain products best!), freeze whole wheat and other flours in your freezer for 24 hours before putting them in the pantry, and keep them in air tight containers. Keep moths out of your closet by placing lavender, rosemary or bay leaf sachets around.
Peppermint – put drops of peppermint essential oil on cotton balls and place these near the entrance to your home. Ants won’t cross a peppermint line, so if you have a problem with these, mix up peppermint castile soap with water in a spray bottle and spray around your floors near entrances.
Read more: Organic Housekeeping and Homemade on Earth Day Book Reviews - both of these books have recipes and tips for non toxic pest control.
