5 Natural Pest Control DIYs

Chemically based products are extremely powerful and can be found in almost any store. However, if you have a problem in a more sensitive area, you might want to opt for more natural pest control. We asked exterminators if there are natural pest control DIYs that are a little gentler and safer to use. Here are 5 natural pest control DIYs you can make with items in your own home.

Also Read: 10 Worst Pest Control Myths

Bug Bite Relief Solution

Itchy bug bites are the worst! This solution is super gentle, safe for kids, and can be changed depending on your preference. For this recipe, you’ll need to get a small rollerball or an eyedropper. To make your own DIY bug bite relief remedy, mix together:

• 2 tbsp fractionated coconut oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops of either eucalyptus or citronella essential oil

Funnel the mixture into your container. To use this natural DIY, apply to any affected areas. Be sure to avoid eyes and mouth. Wash off with soap and water if you have an adverse reaction. You can also use it as a perfume or for aromatherapy purposes.

Lavender oil is very calming and is anti-inflammatory properties. Eucalyptus and citronella have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and are proven to soothe skin. Many chemical bug bite products use alcohol, which can actually irritate the skin.

Insect Repellent  

This solution is effective on almost any bug you could imagine from mosquitos to bed bugs. For this recipe, you’ll need a small spray bottle. To make your own DIY lavender repellent at home, mix together:

• 1/2 cup witch hazel
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp lavender oil, citronella, or cedarwood essential oils

Funnel the mixture into your small spray bottle, and use it all over your body. Be sure to avoid your eyes and mouth, looking out for any adverse reactions. Wash off with soap and water if you have an adverse reaction.

Lavender and cedarwood are known insect repellers for sucking or moisture-loving insects. This solution can be used around pets if you’re afraid to use harsh chemicals.

Also Read: Lavender Essential Oil Guide

Anti-Insect Repellant for Plants

If you have an infestation, check your plants to see if they’re the source. There are lots of pests such as gnats that love to gather on plants. For this recipe, you’ll need a medium-sized spray bottle. To make your own DIY anti-insect plant repellent, mix together:

• 2 cup water
• ½ tsp natural liquid soap (optional)
• 1 tsp neem, eucalyptus, or cedarwood essential oil

Funnel mixture into a spray bottle and shake well before using. The natural liquid soap will ensure the oil and water don’t separate.

Use the solution plants every 3 days to repel invasive insects. If you find it’s not strong enough, add more essential oils. Neem is a gardener’s secret solution to protect plants from moisture-loving insects. This mixture can even kill aphids, whiteflies, mites, and earwigs upon contact. 

Also Read: Neem Oil Guide

Natural Cleaner to Repel Pests

Natural cleaners can be just as effective at disinfecting as chemical cleaners and are much gentler. Even if you do decide to use a chemically-based solution, you can still use this solution as an added layer of protection from pests. This natural pest control DIY will also mask the smell of your harsh cleaner. To make your own natural cleaner, mix together the following in a large spray bottle:

• 2 cups white vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon natural dish soap 
• 1 tablespoon citronella and tea tree essential oil

Use this spray to clean any common surface, or to give your garbage can a fresh small. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant, and the essential oils will keep pests like gnats and rats away.

Also Read: 7 Spring Cleaning Tips For Pest Control

Natural Window Cleaner to Repel Pests

The best way to stop pests is to deter them from coming inside. Pests that have strong scent receptors such as ants, rodents, or spiders often enter homes through kitchen windows or doors. Use this solution to effectively clean windows and keep pests out! To make your own DIY window cleaners, mix together the following in a large spray bottle:

• 3 cups water
• 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol or vodka
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1 tsp peppermint essential oil

Pests generally stay away from anything with a strong scent like peppermint. Luckily, peppermint smells great to humans! If you don’t like peppermint, you can swap it for any of the other essential oils we listed in the other recipes.

Let us know what you think of our DIY natural solutions. To get more tips and tricks for your own pest control, follow our Pest Brigade Facebook page.