She Strengthens

Say Goodbye to Toxic Chemicals: Natural Ways to Get Rid of House Bugs

Creepy crawlies can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, but they’re just trying to do their thing. Luckily, there are proven methods to prevent, discourage, and treat bug infestations without using harmful chemicals. Who wants to live in a poisonous environment, anyway?

The Dangers of Traditional Pest Control

Artificial pest repellents, sprays, baits, and poisons can be dangerous, if not lethal, when ingested or touched. Exposure to pesticides can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, disrupt hormones, and even contribute to the development of some cancers. They can also contaminate water sources and harm the environment.

Alternative Ways to Debug Your Home

From essential oils to nontoxic household cleaning products, here are some natural ways to keep pests away:

Keep ’em Out

• Clean up: Store food in sealed containers, take out the trash regularly, and clean up spills immediately.
• Stay dry: Fix leaky pipes, sinks, and appliances to prevent water accumulation.
• Be Mr. or Ms. Fix-It: Patch or replace holes in screens and walls to prevent pests from entering.

Know Your Bugs

Here are 14 common home invaders, along with their characteristics, habits, and natural ways to get rid of them:

1. Ants: Use natural ant repellents like cream of tartar, cinnamon, and garlic to deter them.
2. Bed Bugs: Wash and dry bedding on hot settings, scrub mattresses, and use essential oils like cinnamon and lemongrass to repel them.
3. Bees and Wasps: Let them bee (unless they’re a direct threat). Use nontoxic essential oil sprays and containment traps to discourage them.
4. Chiggers: Wear long layers, use bug spray, and avoid areas known to house chiggers. Take hot showers and wash clothing with hot water to remove them.
5. Fleas: Use pet preventative medications, vacuum frequently, and wash pets with pet-friendly soap and hot water. Natural herbs like lemon and rosemary can also deter fleas.
6. Flies: Clean up garbage, take out the trash, and mop up spills ASAP. Use homemade traps and Venus fly trap plants to control flies.
7. Lice: Use natural shampoos and conditioners, and wash bedding on hot settings. Comb out lice with a fine-tooth comb and use essential oils like tea tree oil to repel them.

By using these natural methods, you can keep your home pest-free without harming the environment or your health.