Do-It-Yourself Organic Pest Control Recipes You Can Make At Home

Pests are a common problem in many households. They can cause damage to property, spread disease, and contaminate food supplies. While there are many different chemical solutions available for pest control, these solutions can be expensive and sometimes come with their own risks. That’s why so many people are turning to natural pest control techniques as an alternative method of controlling unwanted pests in their homes. Natural pest control methods involve using a number of non-chemical treatments that help to repel or kill common household pests such as cockroaches, ants, rodents, spiders, fleas and more. It’s a great way to keep common household pests at bay without the use of harsh chemicals. Planting certain herbs and flowers can be particularly effective in repeling a wide variety of bugs. Garlic and marigolds are two of the most commonly used herbs for natural pest control, as they have strong odors that act as deterrents for many insects. Marigolds contain pyrethrum, which is an insecticide naturally found in many plants. Garlic spray is also effective when it comes to warding off small bugs like aphids, moths and ants.

What are Synthetic Chemicals?

Synthetic chemicals are substances created by humans in a laboratory. These man-made chemicals are used for a variety of different purposes, including as pesticides, solvents and even pharmaceuticals. While synthetic chemicals can provide certain benefits, they can also be dangerous. Particularly when used as pest control products. Common artificial chemical pesticides include pyrethroids, carbamates, organophosphates, and organochlorines.

Problems with Synthetic Chemicals?

These chemicals are designed to target and kill specific types of pests. However, using them can result in human exposure to toxic residues that may cause health problems. When it comes to pesticide use, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Synthetic chemical pesticides may offer some quick relief from a pest problem; however they come with many risks that cannot be ignored. Overuse of these products can have a long term effect on the environment as they become part of our air and water supply. Not to mention the potential risks that come with direct human or animal exposure. Symptoms of exposure to these synthetic chemicals include headache, dizziness, nausea, respiratory irritation or breathing difficulty, confusion and fatigue. Please seek medical aid immediately if you experience any of these symptoms after exposure.

It’s important to note that natural alternatives exist and can be just as effective at controlling common household pests without posing any risks to humans or animals in the area.

Without further ado, let’s dive into this Mega List of Natural remedies for controlling pests.

1. Garlic

Garlic is an effective natural pest control method that can be used to repel a wide variety of pests. The strong odor of garlic acts as a deterrent for many insects. Making it an ideal choice for keeping your home and garden bug-free. To use garlic as a repellent, simply crush or mince the cloves and spread them around areas where pests are present. This should help to keep the bugs away. In addition to repelling certain insects, garlic can also be used as an organic fertilizer, adding essential nutrients to soil and helping plants grow stronger.

2. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is another all-natural pest control solution that can be used to safely ward off common household bugs like ants and spiders. Simply dilute peppermint oil in water at a ratio of 2 drops of oil per cup of water, then spray the solution around potential nesting areas like window frames or doorways. This will help create a barrier and prevent pests from entering your home. Peppermint oil is safe to use around children and pets, so you don’t have to worry about accidental exposure to harsh chemicals when using this method.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda can also be used for natural pest control. Simply sprinkle it in areas where insects are likely to inhabit (such as damp basements), or mix with equal parts sugar and flour before spreading it around nest locations. Baking soda works by disrupting the digestive systems of insects so they no longer want to feed on whatever food source they were previously attracted to. It is also important to ensure there are no standing pools of water near where baking soda has been applied – these could attract more unwanted bugs instead.

4. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is an excellent natural pest control solution for keeping bugs away from your home and garden. Simply mix lemon juice and water at a ratio of one part juice to one part water, then spray the mixture around potential infestation areas. The strong scent of citrus oil will keep insects away, while the acidity of the lemon juice will help repel unwanted guests as well. In addition to repelling bugs, lemon juice can also be used to clean surfaces and remove odors as well,

5. Basil

Basil has been long known to be a great natural pest repellent. Its strong smell can help ward off certain flying insects like mosquitoes and flies. To use basil as a pest-control measure, simply place fresh leaves or sprays of the herb around entry points and windows. This should help deter bugs from entering your home. Additionally, planting basil outside in your garden has been known to serve double duty by adding flavor to recipes while warding off pests.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is another popular natural pest control option that works by attracting insects with its sweet smell before deterring them with its acidic properties. To use apple cider vinegar for pest control, simply add equal parts water and vinegar into a spray bottle. This can then be sprayed around windows or doorways in order to create an effective barrier against pests. Additionally, apple cider vinegar may also work as a deterrent of certain ants, so it’s worth giving it a try if you have an ant problem.

7. Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil is renowned for its calming scent and many therapeutic benefits. But did you know that it can also make for a great natural pest control measure? Lavender emits a strong smell which helps fend off certain flying insects like mosquitoes. Simply dilute 10 drops of lavender essential oil in 1 cup of water before spraying around any potential nesting areas like window frames or doorways. Be sure not to apply directly onto furniture as it could stain fabrics.

8. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another potent insect repellent that comes with additional antibacterial benefits for good measure. This essential oil works by creating an unwelcoming environment for tiny invaders like fleas and ticks. All you have to do is mix 2 teaspoons tea tree oil into 1 quart warm water before transferring into a spray bottle. Now you have your own DIY solution against pesky little critters.

9. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are an effective natural pest control option thanks to their strong scent and acidic properties. Simply place a few slices of oranges, lemons, or limes in any areas where pests may be present. This should help keep the bugs away as they don’t like the smell. Alternatively, you can also make your own citrus-based spray by combining equal parts of water and juice from any citrus fruit before transferring into a spray bottle. It’s great for keeping insects away from doorways or windows.

10. Hot Water

Hot water can also be used as a natural pest repellent that works by scalding eggs and larvae of unwanted insects like mosquitoes and ants – simply fill a bucket with hot water (but make sure it isn’t boiling.) and pour over any potential nesting areas in order to kill off the bugs and prevent them from returning. Be sure to be careful when using hot water as it could burn people or pets if not handled properly.

11. Cinnamon

Cinnamon has long been known for its sweet fragrance, but did you know that it can also help repel certain pests? Simply sprinkle ground cinnamon around potential infestation areas such as doorways or window frames. This should create a barrier which will help keep out unwelcome visitors. Additionally, cinnamon oil can also be mixed with other essential oils before sprayed around any potential nesting spots for extra protection against bugs.

12. Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds are another excellent natural pest control method due to their acidic properties which serve as a deterrent for many common household bugs like ants and spiders. To use coffee grounds effectively against pests, simply mix them into damp soil around your plants. This should help protect the roots while keeping unwanted critters at bay. Alternatively, coffee grounds can also be spread around window frames or other entry points which will help stop bugs getting inside your home too.

13. Table Salt

Table salt is another popular natural pest control solution which works by disrupting the digestive systems of certain insects and killing off larvae in standing pools of water. To use table salt effectively against pests, simply combine one part salt with four parts boiling water then spread over affected areas. It should work quickly to repel unwanted guests from your property. Additionally, regular application of table salt around insect nesting sites may also prove helpful in preventing further infestations too.

14. Borax

Borax is another all-natural product that can be used for effective pest control. Simply mix 1/2 cup borax with 2 cups warm water before pouring it into nest locations like cracks or crevices around windowsills or doorframes. It will deter certain crawling insects from staying there due to the powder’s dehydrating effect on their bodies. Make sure to wear protective gloves when handling borax as it may cause irritation if exposed directly onto skin.

15. Epsom Salts

Epsom salts are a natural pest control solution that contains trace amounts of magnesium, which can help ward off certain pests like fleas and slugs. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt with 3 cups of water before spraying around any potential nesting areas. Additionally, regular application of Epsom salts is also known to be beneficial for plants too.

16. Castile Soap

Castile soap is a great all-natural product when it comes to keeping unwanted bugs at bay. The mild soap solution can work wonders for deterring certain insects and arthropods due to its irritating properties. To use castile soap effectively against pests, simply mix 4 tablespoons into 2 quarts of water before transferring into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture around entry points like doorways or windows as well as any potential nesting sites to create an effective barrier against unwanted guests.

17. White Vinegar

White vinegar is another great natural pest control option. It’s a versatile household staple works by disrupting the olfactory senses in certain bugs, thus repelling them away from infested areas. To use white vinegar for pest control, simply add equal parts water and vinegar into a spray bottle before spritzing it around your home or garden. It creates an unpleasant environment that will deter pests from staying in the area. Additionally, white vinegar can also be used to clean surfaces and remove odors as well.

18. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil has long been known for its therapeutic properties but did you know that it can also be used as an effective pest controller? This essential oil emits strong scents which can help ward off certain flying insects like mosquitoes & flies – simply add 6 drops of oregano oil into 1 cup of hot water then transfer into a spray bottle before usage.

19. Neem Oil

Neem oil is another powerful natural pesticide that helps repel various flying insects such as mosquitoes and gnats . The pungent scent from neem oil helps create an unpleasant atmosphere which most bugs try to avoid at all costs. To use neem oil for pest control, simply dilute 10mls per litre of warm water then transfer into a spray bottle. Spritz around doorways, windows or any other suspected nesting areas in order to create an effective preventive measure against pesky critters.

20. Eucalyptus

The leaf and oil is effective at deterring pests like mosquitoes and flies. The strong scent of eucalyptus can be unpleasant to many pests, which can help deter them from entering your home or garden. To use eucalyptus as a natural pest control method, you can place eucalyptus leaves in areas where pests are a problem or mix eucalyptus essential oil with water to create a natural pest repellent spray.

21. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is a great all-natural solution for keeping away certain bugs like spiders & ants. The strong smell creates an unpleasant atmosphere which most insects try to avoid at all costs. To use peppermint oil for pest control, simply add a few drops of this essential oil into warm water before transferring it into spray bottle. Spray around potential nesting sites in order to repel any unwanted guests from staying there. Additionally, peppermint oil can also be combined with other natural ingredients such as garlic or basil to create a more powerful protection against pests too.

22. Baking Soda

Baking soda is another simple yet effective way to keep pests out of your home or garden. This versatile pantry staple works by disrupting the pH balance of certain insects, thus making it difficult for them to thrive in their environment. To use baking soda for pest control, simply sprinkle around potential nesting spots such as doorways or windowsills. An effective way to deter bugs from entering your property as well as providing extra protection against further infestations too.

23. Aspirin

Aspirin may not seem like a typical choice when it comes to pest control but surprisingly enough. This over-the-counter medication can actually be used to help ward off certain unwanted guests like fleas and bedbugs. Simply dissolve one tablet of aspirin per cup of warm water then transfer the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray on areas where pests are present and let it sit overnight before rinsing off in order to create an unpleasant environment they’ll want to stay away from.

24. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has long been known for its refreshing scent but did you know that it can also double up as a natural insect repellent? Simply mix equal parts lemon juice and water together before transferring into a spray bottle. This should create an acidic barrier that will repel many common household pests like ants and spiders. It’s also important to remember that regular application of lemon juice may be necessary in order to keep these pesky critters away from your property too.

25. Cucumber Seeds

Cucumber seeds are another great natural option when it comes to dealing with unwanted insects. Due to their distinct smell and bitter taste, cucumber seeds act as a deterrent against certain crawling bugs like cockroaches & beetles. To take advantage of cucumber’s protective properties, simply spread some dried cucumber seeds around entry points and suspected nesting sites– this should help keep these critters out while still providing beneficial nutrients for plants too.

26. Almond Shells

Almond shells are yet another excellent natural pest deterrent. With their sharp edges and pungent scent, they can work wonders when it comes to keeping out certain unwanted visitors like slugs & snails. Simply scatter almond shells along walkways or pathways in your backyard. Once the creatures come across these tiny pieces of shell they’ll likely turn away immediately due the uncomfortable feeling on their sensitive bodies. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something even more potent you can also opt for crushed almond shells instead since these have been known to be even more effective against these creepy crawlers.

27. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is ideal for creating an acidic barrier that deters various types of flying insects such as mosquitoes & moths. Simply mix equal parts apple cider vinegar with water before transferring into a spray bottle. Apply around entry points and suspected nesting sites in order to create an unpleasant atmosphere which will make them less likely return again. Additionally, apple cider vinegar is also known for its antifungal properties so if you’re having issues with fungus gnats then this could be worth trying too.

28. Hot Sauce

Hot sauce is another great all-natural product when it comes tackling bug problems. Due its spicy nature hot sauce can serve as an effective repellent against many common household pests such as roaches & ants – simply mix equal parts hot sauce with warm water before transferring into a spray bottle. Apply liberally throughout areas where there may be activity from bugs for instant relief . Be sure not overuse hot sauce however because some pets may find the spicy aroma unpleasant so make sure any attempts are done cautiously.

30. Bitter Orange Peel

Bitter orange peel is an effective natural pest control method because it helps to repel pests such as moths, beetles, and cockroaches. The bitter acidity of the orange peel acts as a deterrent, which makes it hard for the pests to remain in one place. Simply grind up the dried peels of bitter oranges and sprinkle them around areas where you have seen a lot of pest activity.

31. Clove Oil

Clove oil helps to repel insects like flies and mosquitoes. Its unique smell creates an environment that is not conducive for bugs to enter or stay in, and its strong fragrance helps to mask any other odors that might attract pests. To use this method, mix several drops of clove oil with a cup of water and spray it around your home or outdoor space where pests are present.

32. Hot Pepper

The spicy flavor keeps most small insects away due to the irritation they feel when they come into contact with the pepper’s capsaicin content. All you need to do is grind up some hot pepper flakes with a mortar and pestle and sprinkle them around areas where nuisance bugs may be present. The spicy smell will help keep those pesky critters at bay.

33. Beer

Beer’s sweet smell attracts some insects like slugs and snails away from plants or other areas where their presence would cause damage or harm. To use beer as a repellent, simply fill shallow dishes with beer in various spots arounds areas that are prone to bug infiltration and watch the critters go elsewhere.

34. Cornmeal

Cornmeals texture makes it hard for certain pests like ants to move through it without becoming stuck. They eventually die off due to lack of oxygen supply within the material itself. Sprinkle some of it close to problem areas that have been affected by these tiny intruders. Then seal off their entry points with plaster or cement sealer so they cannot get back in again later on down the line

35. Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums are great for controlling certain types of pests such as aphids, thrips, whiteflies, mealybugs and spider mites. Its active ingredient pyrethrum which has insecticidal properties that quickly kill off any troublemakers they come into contact with upon application. To make use of this natural remedy you can either purchase chrysanthemum flowers already dried up at local garden stores. Or dry your own flowers before grinding them up manually into powder form (which serves better for direct treatment). Or try boiling them whole for longer lasting effectiveness against these nasty insects over time.

36. Cedar

A great natural pest control method because its aromatic oils act as a deterrent for many common pests such as moths and spiders. This helps keep your home free from these bothersome critters. Simply either rub fresh cedar wood chips around entry points or other problem areas where pest activity has been noticed, or burn some cedar sticks in order to release their fumes into the air and keep pesky bugs away.

37. Catnip

It can be used as an effective natural pest control measure thanks to its strong smell. It acts as an irritant for many different irritating insects like mosquitos, ants and aphids. To take advantage of this method, either grow catnip plants around your property or grind up dried leaves before sprinkling them near problem areas that have been affected by these pesky critters.

38. Banana Peels

Banana peels are effective due to the specific acids and oils found in them which help to repel insects like cockroaches, beetles and other small bugs. Before placing banana peels around known bug-prone areas, be sure to cut them into pieces so that it’s easier for the pests to come into contact with them. This will increase the chances of being able to successfully shoo away these unwanted visitors.

39. Essential Oil Mixture

Essential oil mixtures are great when it comes to naturally repelling pests due to the unique aromas they produce. Not only do they mask other smells that insects are attracted to but also act as a deterrent. By creating an environment that is not conducive for them remaining in one place for very long periods of time. To make use of essential oils against household pests, mix several drops of your favorite scent with water and spray it around various entrances or other bug-prone locations.

Conclusion

With natural pest control methods, you can take charge of your home and the environment around you. Not only does this help protect your family from pesky pests, but it also helps to cut down on toxins and pollutants that are released into the air as a result of typical chemical pest control solutions. Synthetic pesticides have been known to be dangerous because they linger in the environment and have adverse impacts on both humans and wildlife. As high school students, we have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the fight against harmful pests and protecting our planet for future generations. We hope this article has given you some useful tips and resources so that you can get started on combating pests in an eco-friendly way – for not only your own benefit, but for the safety of current and future generations.