Did you know that pest control is actually a major concern to both homes and the environment in the US today? Over-the-counter products have proven to be effective, but there is the possibility of them containing serious chemicals that can endanger children and household pets if the products are ingested, inhaled, or contacted.
But don’t worry! We have documented some of the best and safest ways to combat your fears of dealing with household pests while considering both the environment, your pets, and your children.
Store Food in Airtight Packages
The use of airtight packages prevents pests such as rodents, houseflies, and ants from infesting any of your food products. Always check on fresh fruits and vegetables that may be attracting flies and if possible, refrigerate them. When there is a need to use traps for rodents, make sure they are far from curious little hands and pets.
Wrap Food/Packaging with Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foils are made of metal that rodents and mice are unwilling to chew. You can use them to seal off corners, holes, or areas that pests can use to wiggle themselves into accessing your food. Foils are generally harmless towards children and the usual household pets but do try to ask your doctor and vet for possible allergic reactions to be sure.
DIY Insecticide, Pesticide, & Biopesticide
Apple Cider Vinegar
Most over-the-counter insecticides are noted as “safe for home use”. But as a parent for both children and pets, it’s always better to be sure than sorry. Thus, a less-toxic and eco-friendly alternative is using a diluted form of apple cider vinegar. This has been proven to work on fleas and other small insects.
Baking Soda
The US EPA does recognize baking soda as a biopesticide. A mixture of equal proportions of sugar and baking soda can get rid of all insects around your household. The sugar attracts the insects, and when ingested, the baking soda forms bubbles that kill them. Although it can be a slow process, it is effective and can be used as a preventative measure. For best results, the baking soda mixture can be applied at intervals depending on the surroundings and the pest.
Citrus Oil
You may not have realized how important citrus oil can be. Most household insects hate citrus, making citrus oil prepared at home a great choice for insect repellent. To keep away indoors flies, insects, bugs, and cricket’s one can spray it on clothes, windows, doors, and furniture to control them. Citrus oil is an effective insecticide that causes no harm to household pets and children.
Pyrethrum
When you crush pyrethrum and soak it in water, then add baking soda or citrus oil, you’d have an effective homemade pesticide. One can spray the mixture to various areas infested with pests, and the results would amaze you. It can also be used on indoor plants in affected areas to remove pests from affecting the flora. The mixture is chemical-free and very environmentally friendly.
Mint Oil
Mint scent is very efficient in detouring bugs from your homestead. Pick some mint oil from your local groceries and sock it in some cotton balls or rolls and place them on strategic areas where you often see the bugs. The scent is very effective in keeping this pest away.
Garlic
Garlic is an effective natural homemade insecticide that can be used against crawling and flying insects around your house. Crush the garlic with a mortar and pestle, add boiling water to it, and leave it overnight. When ready, you can use a sprayer to apply it on affected areas or places you don’t want the pests to infest.
In Conclusion
Pest prevention is absolutely possible to do by yourself with the use of local ingredients. Apart from being eco-friendly, these alternatives are child- and pet-safe. But be reminded that there can be times when you’ll need more than just DIYed concoctions. If the infestation becomes too much for you to handle, the best decision would be to call in professionals. This can help you save money in the long run, and assure that your family and pets are safe from diseases that can be spread by insect bites.
