In an age where environmental consciousness is at its capacity, it is high time that we learn eco-friendly means of managing household pests rather than posing a danger to our respective households using harmful chemicals. Their practicality, non-toxicity, and inexpensiveness sum up homemade eco-friendly pest control methods. This blog, therefore, explores 20 eco-friendly pest control methods, among others, their merits associated with their use, and easy recipes to prepare these methods.
There are several reasons to settle for eco-friendly pest control. One major issue is the harmful effects of chemical pesticides on both people and the environment. Such substances cause soil, water, and air pollution, which leads to long-term ecological depreciation. Besides, exposure to chemical pesticides may bring about simple skin irritations and, to an extent, severe respiratory problems, among other things.
On the other hand, natural methods of controlling pests are safe and friendly to the environment. In addition, these natural methods use locally available ingredients, which are usually already in your kitchen, garden, or store. Therefore, these methods offer a friendly and healthy solution for your living environment.
These do-it-yourself pest control methods have been tested and proven effective. Still, at times, infestations or colonization may reach an uncontrollable level. In this regard, a professional pest control service is advisable. Professionals offer eco-friendly solutions to control pest infestations and create a healthy home and environment.
Vinegar is one of the best natural ant repellents. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fill a spray bottle with equal vinegar and water. Apply the mixture to the areas where you see ant activity. They are ever disrupted by the strong smell, usually breaking their scent trails; this will keep them away from your house.
An excellent cockroach bait is made from equal parts baking soda and sugar. It is set in different points where roaches inhabit. The sugar lures them, but the baking soda disrupts their digestive system.
Neem oil is like a magic bullet for pests when applied to plants. To protect plants against pests such as aphids, mites, and whiteflies, mix two teaspoons of neem oil with one teaspoon of mild soap in one gallon of water. Then, spray the mixture onto the plants.
Use coffee grounds to chase away slugs and snails from your garden. Place the grounds around vegetables and flowers. The grounds provide a barrier that these pests hesitate to cross.
The smell of citrus deters spiders. To keep them away, put fresh citrus peels in areas where they are. Remove and replace the peels regularly to keep the scent fresh and compelling.
A natural powder, diatomaceous earth dehydrates insects, killing them instantly. Put around your house’s or garden’s perimeter to control ants, fleas, and others. Use food grade to ensure safety.
Eucalyptus oil is effective against dust mites. To keep these pests at bay, add a few drops to laundry detergent and wash bedding and curtains.
Sprinkle salt on carpets and upholstery to control fleas. Leave it on for a few hours or overnight before vacuuming. The salt dehydrates the fleas, killing them.
Rodents strongly detest the smell of peppermint oil. Where rodents are expected to use as an entrance, soak cotton balls with peppermint oil and place them there. Do this from time to time for continuous protection.
Boric acid is also as effective in controlling cockroaches. Spread it in the areas where the cockroaches are often found. When the boric acid comes into contact with the pest, it sticks to their bodies until it finally kills them.
After sitting on your mattress for a few hours, sprinkle baking soda on top and vacuum it up. Baking soda dehydrates bed bugs and is an effective killer.
Lavender oil repels moths. To keep moths out of your closet and drawers, soak cotton balls in lavender oil and place them there.
Cayenne pepper can control a wide range of insects. Mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper with a quart of water and a few drops of dish soap. Spray on plants and around your house.
Borax is a natural product that kills termites. Mix the borax with water and apply it to wooden structures infested by termites.
To get rid of drain flies, mix baking soda and vinegar. Then, flush with hot water to remove the residue.
Combine one liter of water with one teaspoon of liquid dish soap to create an essential soap spray. Spray directly on soft-bodied insects, such as aphids and mealybugs, to dehydrate and kill them.
Bay leaves are a homemade solution to discourage pests, namely weevils. Place a few in the pantry and cupboards to keep the pests at bay.
Whip up a squirrel repellent spray by combining cayenne pepper, water, and a touch of dish soap. Use it on plants and other surfaces where squirrels are creating a nuisance.
Gnats do not like the smell of vanilla. If you see gnats, spray the affected regions with water and a few drops of vanilla extract.
A plethora of marigolds should be planted in the garden to help avoid attacks from many types of pests. The pungent smell of marigolds drives away insects like aphids and nematodes.
Homemade pest-control solutions are simple and cheap to make. The basic ones are vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, garlic, and soap. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to go about it.
Get Ingredients: Select natural ingredients depending on the pest at hand.
Combine And Store: Mix the ingredients according to a recipe and store them in spray bottles or containers.
Apply: Apply to the targeted pest-infested or otherwise affected area according to the safety guidelines.
Homemade green pest control measures offer a feasible and sustainable way of handling household pests. It’s a much better means to maintain a healthy balance of nature with solutions to pests, keeping health risks at a minimum level and no environmental damage. Change to green pest control will promote a healthy living space and be responsible for keeping the rest of us happy and healthy. So start with this option today, and enjoy a pest-free home that is safe for you, your family, and the environment.
Q. How effective are homemade methods of pest control?
A. Homemade methods can be very effective if properly used. Two things are crucial: consistency and application.
Q. Are these methods safe for pets?
A. Most natural methods are pet-friendly, but pets should avoid direct contact. However, it is always best to do a patch test.
Q. Why are natural pest control methods better?
A. Methods for controlling pests are eco-friendly, non-toxic, economical, safe for children and pets, help reduce chemical exposure, and keep the environment healthy.
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