15 Common Household Pests & How to Get Rid of Them Naturally
McKayla Davis
Contributing Writer
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Household pests are more than just a nuisance; they can pose health risks, cause damage to property, and disrupt the comfort of your home. From ants marching across your kitchen counter to mice scurrying in the attic, these uninvited guests can be persistent and challenging to eliminate. Understanding the habits and habitats of these pests is the first step in managing them effectively. This article explores 15 common household pests and provides natural solutions to keep them at bay.
Understanding the Importance of Natural Pest Control
Natural pest control is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment. Chemical pesticides, while effective, can introduce toxins into your home, posing risks to children, pets, and the environment. Natural methods, on the other hand, focus on prevention and using non-toxic substances to deter pests. These methods are not only safer but also more sustainable, as they often involve using readily available household items and promoting ecological balance.
1. Ants: Natural Remedies and Prevention Tips
Ants are attracted to food and water sources, especially in kitchens and pantries.
To deter ants naturally:
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water (1 cup each) in a spray bottle and wipe down countertops, floors, and entry points daily.
Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or cayenne pepper along windowsills, baseboards, and door thresholds to create a natural barrier.
2. Cockroaches: Effective Natural Solutions
Cockroaches thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread diseases.
To combat them naturally:
Sprinkle a light layer of food-grade diatomaceous earth (about 2 tablespoons per area) behind appliances, under sinks, and along baseboards.
Place 4–5 bay leaves or a tablespoon of dried catnip inside cabinets or dark corners to act as natural repellents.
3. Mice: Humane and Natural Deterrents
Mice can cause structural damage and carry diseases.
To keep them out:
Seal holes larger than ¼ inch using steel wool or caulk.
Soak cotton balls with 5–10 drops of peppermint oil and place them in corners, under sinks, and near suspected entry points. Refresh every 5–7 days.
Consider using humane traps to catch and release mice away from your home.
4. Spiders: Keeping Them at Bay Naturally
While spiders help control pests, they’re not always welcome indoors.
To deter them naturally:
Mix 10 drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and spray around windows, baseboards, and doorways once a week.
