Many people go for the ” kill everything ” method when it comes down to pest control methods at home, and many people go for the “kill everything” method. There are a few things to keep in mind when going this route: you could get arrested, you will destroy any wildlife that’s present (and sometimes pets), and if any pests manage to escape from the house, they may move into another building nearby. The best pest control services near me recommend other pest control methods to prevent these problems from occurring. Here are some tried and proven methods that can help keep your indoor areas free from insects –
1) Boric acid powder
One of the simplest ways to kill cockroaches is by using boric acid. It is available in various forms like gels, powders, or crystals safely applied to cockroach breeding areas. However, ensure that children and pets do not contact this chemical since it might cause serious harm.
2) Plant-based pesticides
Plant-based pest control products are an inexpensive option if you are looking for a safe solution to deal with ants, spiders, cockroaches, and other common household pests. You can go for Neem oil extracts hygienically prepared from neem seeds processed under cold conditions. It has insecticidal properties and helps prevent infestations by killing eggs as well as larvae stages of pests.
3) Apple cider vinegar
Ants generally hate the smell of apple cider vinegar. That is because the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar helps break down the waxy coating that protects ants from dehydration. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water to create a solution that can be poured around baseboards, windowsills, and other areas where you often see ants.
4) Diatomaceous earth (DE) powder
Diatomaceous earth (DE) powder kills by scoring an insect’s outer layer as it crawls over the fine powder, which then absorbs all body fluids causing death. Thus, it can be used not just for killing insects but also for their larvae and eggs. Apply this food-grade powder in small amounts between cracks, crevices, or any other potential hiding places of crawling insects like cockroaches. As with boric acid, ensure that children and pets do not come into contact with this powder since it contains sharp particles.
5) Cloves
You can get rid of ants by placing whole cloves around areas where you see them frequently. The pungent smell of cloves acts as a natural repellent for ants, keeping them away from your house.
6) Bay leaves
Bay leaves are another excellent natural deterrent for cockroaches. Placing lemon-scented bay leaves near garbage cans, cupboards, or any other area where cockroaches are likely to be hiding helps prevent infestations.
7) Orange peel powder
Mix orange peels with boric acid powder in equal parts to create an effective cockroach repellent. Place this powder in corners, crevices, and under appliances where you often see cockroaches hiding.
There are many DIY methods for pest control available at home. Depending on their source and breeding locations, different remedies are effective against various pests. Boric acid, plant-based pesticides, apple cider vinegar, diatomaceous earth (DE) powder, cloves, and bay leaves help deal with insects originating inside the house. In contrast, boric acid, Neem oil extracts, and some other plant-based products can deal with insects originating outside the home. Also, ensure that pets and children do not contact these chemicals since they can cause serious harm if used without proper precautions.
