Get Rid of Flies and Cockroaches: Old Tricks for a Bug-Free Home

by: Nini
October 5, 2023

source: our recipes

Are you tired of unwanted houseguests like flies and cockroaches? These pesky insects can be a source of discomfort and annoyance. But fear not, because we’ve got some simple yet effective tricks to help you eliminate them from your house. Say goodbye to buzzing and scurrying with these natural remedies.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar Trap

First up is the trusty apple cider vinegar trap. It’s like a VIP party invitation for flies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A shallow dish
• Apple cider vinegar
• dish soap
• plastic wrap and a toothpick

Pour about an inch of vinegar into the bowl, add a bit of dish soap, and stir it. Just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and use a toothpick to poke a few holes in it. Insects come for the vinegar smell but get stuck because of the soap.

2. Fruit Trap

If overripe fruit is a regular visitor in your kitchen, it might be attracting more than just your taste buds. Here’s a simple fruit trap that works like a charm:

• An overripe piece of fruit
• A bowl
• Plastic wrap
• Toothpick

Place the overripe fruit in the bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Now, here’s the secret weapon – punch small holes in the plastic wrap using a toothpick. The scent of the fruit will escape through the holes and attract flies. Once they’re inside, they won’t find their way out. Genius, right?

3. Lavender Essential Oil Repellent

Now, let’s talk about repelling these insects. Lavender essential oil isn’t just for a soothing bath. It’s also a fantastic insect repellent.

Just combine a couple of drops of lavender essential oil with water in a spray bottle.  Spritz it around your house, focusing on entry points like doors and windows. Flies and cockroaches can’t stand the scent of lavender, and they’ll steer clear of your space.

4. Lemon & Clove Repellent

Here’s another natural repellent that works like a charm. Lemons and cloves are your new best friends when it comes to keeping bugs away.

Slice a lemon in half and push some cloves into the juicy part. Place these lemon halves near potential entry points. The combination of lemon and clove creates a scent barrier that insects find unbearable. Plus, your home will have a refreshing citrusy aroma.

5. Plants that Repel Insects

Nature has provided us with some excellent bug-fighting allies in the form of plants. Consider adding these to your indoor garden:

• Basil: Not only does it make delicious pesto, but basil also repels flies and mosquitoes.
• Mint: Mint plants deter ants and flies while adding a fresh scent to your home.
• Lavender: We’ve already talked about its oil, but a lavender plant is a beautiful addition that keeps pests at bay.

How to Prevent or Reduce Insect Invasions

Prevention is often the best cure. Here are some tips to keep flies and cockroaches from invading your space:

• Keep your kitchen clean and dry. Insects love crumbs and spills.
• Seal any cracks or gaps in your doors and windows.
• Store food in airtight containers to deny access to hungry pests.
• Empty your trash regularly and use a lid to cover it.

With these easy and natural tricks, you can say goodbye to the discomfort and annoyance of flies and cockroaches in your home. Remember, keeping a clean and fragrant home not only eliminates pests but also creates a more inviting and pleasant living space for you and your family. So, go ahead and give these tricks a try – your bug-free paradise awaits!