Are you concerned about the use of chemical sprays in your home for pest control? Read our guide on natural pest control, where we explore if it is safer than chemicals, along with some common examples of natural pest control options.
Chemical Pest Control
Firstly, let’s explore chemical-based pest control.
Traditionally it has been made using strong chemicals like bifenthrin and boric acid. It’s a scientific fact that these pesticides — along with many others used in traditional pest control — are harmful to humans and other living things.
Many health problems have been linked to these chemicals. As a result, scientists have come up with new pesticides that, although still chemically based, are much safer. Your pest control company would be aware of these and should be using them, especially in your home.
Natural Pest Control
With a return to nature these days, it’s easy to see why more and more people are interested in natural pest control, especially for their homes. Otherwise known as organic pest control and eco-friendly pest control, these options consist of pesticides derived from a natural source. This could be a mineral or plant. Generally non-toxic, these options are deemed safer than chemical pest control. Not to mention environmentally friendly.
There is some debate about the effectiveness of natural pest controls. In many cases, they have been effective. The general argument is that its effectiveness is determined by your own individual pest situation — the type of pest, the quantity, length of habitation, and the environment.
Common Types of Natural Pest Control
The following are some common varieties of natural pest control that have been proven effective for certain situations.
Ants
Ants are a nuisance to have in your home, whether they are in your kitchen or your lounge room. The following are considered natural pest control:
- Instant coffee powder — to be sprinkled in the area of ants
- Talcum powder — to be sprinkled in the area of ants
- Soapy water — spray the ants with the concoction
- Cucumber — Set out cucumber peels or slices at the ant’s point of entry
- Garlic — Chop a few cloves and spread them around the location of the ants
- And more
Cockroaches
Not only are cockroaches an ugly sight, but they pose health risks with contamination and other problems. The following are considered natural pest control for controls:
- Diatomaceous earth — sprinkle in the location of cockroaches
- Catnip plant — natural repellent to cockroaches, place the leaves on the affected area
- Soapy water — spray the insects with this concoction
- Bay leaves — place in the area of cockroaches
Rodents
Rodents — both mice and rats —have caused a lot of problems throughout history, from plagues to severe contamination. The following are considered natural pest control for them:
- Peppermint oil — Place a few drops near common entry points
- Mint plant — mice despise the smell
- Cayenne pepper — sprinkle on the affected area
- Urine — human or animal as it contains ammonia which deters rodents
- Baking soda — seems to work more on rats than mice. They consume it and die.
Test out the above natural pest control methods, but we don’t recommend you use them for severe pest infestations. These require professional pest management from our experts at AGJ Pest Management. Contact us today to discuss your pest problem.
