Say Goodbye to Pests with This Simple, Natural DIY Repellent
We’ve all dealt with the annoyance of pests at home — from flies buzzing around fruit to cockroaches darting under the sink. These intruders not only disrupt comfort but also make your home feel unclean. While many people reach for expensive, chemical-heavy sprays and traps, there’s a natural, affordable alternative using common household items.
A blend of peppermint toothpaste, baking soda, white vinegar, and optionally peppermint essential oil creates a DIY pest repellent that’s safe, effective, and refreshingly minty. The strong scent overwhelms insects’ senses, making your home unwelcoming to pests like flies, roaches, ants, and mosquitoes.
Here’s how to make it:
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Combine equal parts toothpaste, baking soda, and white vinegar.
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Add warm water to thin the mixture, and stir in a few drops of peppermint essential oil (optional).
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Pour the mixture into shallow containers and place them in pest-prone areas — behind appliances, under sinks, or near trash bins.
You may notice results within an hour as pests begin to flee. While this mixture doesn’t kill bugs, it deters them without harming your family or pets. For tight spaces, dab the mixture onto cotton balls or brush it into cracks and corners. Reapply every 2–3 days for continued protection.
This method isn’t a substitute for professional pest control during severe infestations, but it offers peace of mind for everyday issues — naturally and affordably. Next time you spot an unwelcome guest, skip the harsh chemicals and reach for what’s already in your cabinet.