These Low-Cost Hacks Will Keep Your Home Pest-Free All Summer
As the weather warms up, we tend to see more pests like ants, flies, and roaches in and around our homes. While hiring an exterminator or investing in expensive pest control solutions might be the first things that come to mind, there are actually several low-budget ways to keep these pests at bay. In this blog, we'll explore some simple, cost-effective methods for dealing with pesky pests that come out in hot weather.
1. Ants
Let's start with ants. These little critters can be a major nuisance, but there are several ways to deter them without breaking the bank. One of the easiest methods is to use vinegar. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray it around areas where ants tend to gather, such as kitchen counters or around doorways. Vinegar has a strong odor that ants dislike, so this simple solution can help keep them at bay. You can also sprinkle cinnamon, cloves, or chili powder around these areas as an additional deterrent.
Another way to keep ants out is to seal up any cracks or gaps in your home's foundation or walls. Ants can enter through even the tiniest openings, so it's important to take a close look at your home and make any necessary repairs. You can also try putting out bait traps, which can be purchased inexpensively at most hardware or home goods stores. These traps contain a sweet, sticky substance that attracts ants, but also contains a poison that will kill them.
2. Flies
When it comes to flies, the key is to eliminate their food sources. Flies are attracted to rotting food, garbage, and other organic matter, so keeping your home clean and tidy is the first step in preventing them from taking up residence. Make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs promptly, and take out the trash regularly.
You can also try making a DIY fly trap using a jar filled with a mixture of apple cider vinegar, sugar, and dish soap. The vinegar and sugar will attract the flies, while the dish soap will trap them in the liquid.
Another way to keep flies out is to use essential oils. Flies dislike the strong scents of certain oils, such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus. You can create a simple spray by mixing a few drops of these oils with water in a spray bottle and spritzing it around areas where flies tend to gather, such as near windows or doors.
3. Roaches
Roaches are another common household pest that can be difficult to get rid of. Like with ants, it's important to eliminate their food sources and seal up any cracks or gaps in your home. But when it comes to roaches, there are a few additional measures you can take.
One is to use boric acid, a common household ingredient that is toxic to roaches. You can sprinkle it in areas where roaches are likely to hide, such as under appliances or in the backs of cabinets.
Another option is to create a DIY roach trap using a mixture of boric acid and sugar water, which will attract the roaches and kill them. Additionally, keeping your home clean and tidy, especially in the kitchen, can help prevent roaches from taking up residence in the first place.
By using household items like vinegar and essential oils, and by taking simple steps like sealing up cracks and eliminating food sources, you can keep your home pest-free without spending a lot of money. Remember that keeping your kitchen as clean as possible is always a good move. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
We hope you enjoy a bug-free home all summer long without spending money on an an exterminator.
This article was co-written with AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.
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