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These days, people are looking for more environmentally friendly ways of going about their daily lives. With carbon footprints and our impact on the planet being hot topics, people are gravitating to sustainable, alternative, and natural energy sources.
As a result, organic compounds for everything from toiletries and cleaning products to getting rid of pests are becoming more mainstream. Keep reading to find more non-toxic alternatives to getting rid of pests in your home.
Non-toxic ways to control flies
Flies can be a nuisance and basil is an excellent, earth-friendly way to make them disappear. Grow basil plants indoors and in the garden or have bowls of dried basil as a table centerpiece. The smell is fantastic, and you’ll always have herbs on hand.
Non-toxic ways to control ants
A pot of boiling water on a concentrated ant’s nest on your patio rids it of ants. If this seems too cruel, then try spreading any of the following where ants are unwelcome:
- Vinegar
- Citrus
- Cinnamon
- Mint
Non-toxic ways to control ticks
Ticks can carry dangerous diseases that can affect both humans and our pets. Luckily, they are also repelled by basil, which is safe for pets. You can make a paste from the basil and smear it around the garden. Tea tree oil is another alternative to getting rid of ticks, but it’s not advisable if you have cats.
Non-toxic ways to control mosquitos
Mosquitos are arguably the most annoying pests on the planet. Their buzzing is incessant, but they can also carry disease. Think about switching up your perfume as the following scents repel mosquitoes:
- Citrus
- Eucalyptus
- Catnip
- Lemongrass
- Rosemary
- Clove
- Citronella
Non-toxic ways to control fleas
If you have cats or dogs, then you have likely had to deal with a flea infestation at some point. Daily vacuuming is a good starting point, though clean the bag right away. A dehumidifier is also known to help, and again, using the right scents can make a significant difference. Consider putting bowls of citrus or fresh rosemary around the house. Salting strategic places have also been known to get rid of fleas.
Non-toxic ways to control wasps and bees
A strong spray of jetted water from a hosepipe in the day will get rid of a typical size wasp’s nest. Consider adding soap to the spray bottle for bees if they are too close to your living space and pose a threat; however, this can kill the bees. If you feel in any danger, there are services to remove wasp or bee nests if required.
Non-toxic ways to control spiders
Spiders are fantastic at controlling mosquitoes, flies, and other insects; however, if you would rather get rid of eight-legged critters in your house, vacuuming them up is a quick fix. Alternatively, use essential oils like citrus, mint, or eucalyptus dotted around the house.
Non-toxic ways to control bedbugs
Bed bugs can be picked up even at the finest hotels. However, did you know that they are using bed bug sniffing dogs to limit the problem? These trained canines have a 97% accuracy of detecting bed bugs compared with human detection services at a mere 25%
To keep future outbreaks of bed bugs at bay, use tea tree oil, orange, or cedar oil. You can devise a concoction of these essential oils with water and spray onto mattresses, pillows, or tiles. Alternatively, baking soda is a fantastic, non-toxic way to rid your bedding of bedbugs.
These days, we do not have to resort to harmful chemicals or time-consuming processes to eliminate pests. By using our recommendations for prevention, detection, and eradication, you can limit the chemicals in your home.
