Before you spend money on commercial insecticides, consider this: your kitchen holds everything needed to create safe, effective pest control. That bottle of white vinegar and jug of vegetable oil can be transformed into a triple-threat repellent that bugs absolutely hate. Mix equal parts vinegar, oil, and shampoo in a spray bottle for a solution that sticks to surfaces while emitting odors that drive insects away.
The magic lies in how these common items affect pests. Vinegar’s sharp acidity disrupts ants’ scent trails, while the oil interferes with insects’ ability to grip surfaces. Shampoo helps the mixture adhere to treated areas longer. This versatile spray works wonders along baseboards, door frames, and outdoor furniture – just avoid using it on porous stone or delicate fabrics.
For flying pests, bay leaves and cloves offer surprising protection. When simmered into a tea and sprayed around the home, their strong aromatic compounds create an invisible force field against invaders. The best part? These natural solutions are completely safe around children and pets, costing pennies compared to store-bought alternatives.
