It’s the height of the summer, your house is feeling stuffy, and you fancy throwing open the doors and windows to let some of the stale, hot air out and replace it with fresh air. A short while later, your house feels cool and ventilated again, but it’s also swarming with pesky uninvited guests. Sound familiar?

Thankfully, there’s no reason why we can’t have fresh air without flies and other critters finding their way into our homes. Numerous measures have been proven to prevent insects from coming in, and they don’t even involve using harsh chemicals. In this article, we share some of the easiest and most effective eco-friendly solutions to keeping insects at bay.

No. 1

Peppermint oil

There are many myths floating around about certain smells repelling pests. Often, the smells in question have a tiny effect (if any at all). But one which has been proven to work well, not only for insects but also for various rodents, is peppermint.

Depositing peppermint oil around your home using cotton balls or by mixing it with water and spraying it is all that is needed. Be sure to put it near the entrances that insects use to get into your home. Growing peppermint plants indoors can also help.

No. 2

White vinegar

It may not smell as pleasant as peppermint oil, but white vinegar is an effective natural insecticide. It is not as good for use as a general deterrent because although it works well to repel ants and spiders, other insects such as fruit flies are attracted to it. 

It is best used to spray insects directly or to make traps. Apple cider vinegar will also work - just mix either with water and a little dish soap.

No. 3

Fly screen

Deterrents like peppermint oil are an affordable and useful option, but a physical barrier to entry provides a better guarantee of results. Of course, you still want to let fresh air into your home, and one way to achieve both is by installing a retractable fly screen.

There are many options on the market today that cover all different sizes of doors and windows, and they can help make your home both stylish and secure. They will keep out small flies, mosquitoes, and any larger intruders. 

No. 4

Remove standing water

There are three things that pests are usually attracted to inside your home, and those are food, water, and shelter. Mosquitoes and some other insects lay their eggs in water, so do not leave any standing around either inside or near your home. 

Remember to carefully check the base of your plant pots as well as any nearby pipes that might leak and create unsightly puddles. Taking the time to thoroughly inspect these key areas can significantly help prevent attracting various insects that may use it as a breeding ground.

No. 5 

Clean the dishes

Anywhere there is old food present can potentially attract a variety of insects, even if it is just small scraps and leftover bits or sauces that may be stuck to dishes left unwashed in the sink. Keeping our living spaces clean and free from old food remnants is essential to prevent these unwanted pests from making themselves at home. Even if you don’t want to clean them right away, for the purpose of controlling pests, you should rinse them off and take out any food waste right away. 

Storing food waste in a designated bin stored in the freezer with a secure lid until trash pickup day can also be quite beneficial for maintaining cleanliness and minimizing odors in your kitchen. However, bagging the waste securely and removing it promptly is generally considered a better practice. Additionally, it’s important to remember to clean up any spilled or dropped food items immediately to prevent attracting unwanted pests and to keep your space tidy.

Takeaways

Applying these tips will significantly aid in deterring insects and rodents both inside and outside your home. By implementing effective strategies such as maintaining cleanliness, sealing entry points, and using natural repellents, you create an environment that is less inviting for pests. Regularly inspecting your property for signs of infestation and addressing potential breeding grounds can further enhance your defenses.

Moreover, fostering mindful living in your space contributes to a holistic approach to managing these unwelcome visitors. Staying proactive and vigilant not only protects your living environment but also supports your overall wellness journey, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful and pest-free home.

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