Video: Three Essential Oils to Deter Pests and Bugs
by Karen Rollins Mar 2, 2020
Bugs can be a nuisance. Whether it’s cockroaches, spiders, mosquitoes, flies, woodlice or centipedes, it seems some sort of small creature is always managing to find its way into our homes.
If you hate bugs but don’t like using harmful chemicals, then you’ll be relieved to know there are several natural solutions you can try.
Yello has looked at three of the most tried-and-tested natural scents which will hopefully keep your home pest free and ensure you can put down the bug spray – watch the video to see the essential oils bugs hate!
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is said to repel centipedes, ants, spiders, mosquitoes, flies and even mice. This is because many insects and mice find the smell repellent and for some of them, including centipedes, the peppermint burns their skin.
You can make a peppermint spray by adding at least 20 drops of the essential oil to a bottle along with about six fluid ounces of water. Spray along cracks and crevices and wherever you think the insects can get in.
Tea Tree Oil
The antibacterial benefits of tea tree oil are quite well known but it’s ability to keep away certain insects is less talked about.
Much like peppermint oil, the smell of tea tree is off-putting to many bugs and this makes it an ideal insect repellent. It’s said to work on mosquitoes, ants, spiders and flies.
Try dousing a cotton ball with the oil and placing it in key areas throughout your house such as near doorways.
Lavender
Lavender is not just great at helping you to relax and go to sleep, it can also be used as a bug repellent.
Even though most humans love the smell of lavender, various insects including flies and mosquitoes, can’t stand it and will stay as far away from it as they can.
Hang bouquets by the door to keep out unwanted guests and put sachets in drawers and closets to stop moths eating your clothes. You can even put lavender oil on your skin to act as a natural mosquito repellent.
Sources: Curejoy / Natural Living / Healthline