Every home cook takes pride in having a well-stocked pantry, but it can also serve as an invitation to pantry bugs. If left unchecked, these microscopic pests can ruin your food supplies. Thankfully, nature has created a natural defence for us in the form of spices. Beyond adding flavour to your dishes, many spices possess insect-repelling properties that can help keep bugs at bay. In this guide, we'll explore a variety of kitchen spices that serve as effective pantry pest barriers and learn how to use them to protect your culinary treasures.
Bay Leaves
Bay leaves are an excellent pantry pest deterrent. Their strong aroma is a natural bug repellent, deterring pantry moths and weevils. Simply place bay leaves in your pantry shelves or containers, and insects will think twice before invading your food supplies. It's a simple and aromatic way to keep your pantry bug-free and your culinary treasures safe.
Cinnamon Sticks
Cinnamon sticks are not only flavorful, but they also keep pests away from your pantry. Cinnamon smells bad to bugs, so it works well as a natural bug repellant. If you put a few cinnamon sticks in your closet or near food that is easy to get into, moths and weevils won't want to eat your stored food. Cinnamon sticks add flavour and keep bugs away.
Cloves
Whole cloves can effectively prevent pests from your cupboard. Insects like weevils and ants are deterred by their unpleasant odour. To prevent insects from eating your grains and pulses, simply place a few whole cloves in a cheesecloth sachet and place it in your pantry.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is a natural bug repellent that effectively keeps insects like ants and spiders at bay. Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them around your pantry, focusing on corners and potential entry points. The strong scent of peppermint creates a barrier that insects find unpleasant, ensuring your food storage remains bug-free and fresh.
Thyme Sprigs
Thyme sprigs are an aromatic solution for deterring pantry pests from your grains. Bundle dried thyme sprigs and hang them in your pantry. The pleasant aroma of thyme helps ward off insects, ensuring that your grains remain free from unwelcome bug infestations. Enjoy the natural protection and flavor enhancement that thyme brings to your pantry storage.
Dried Chili Peppers
Dried chili peppers serve a dual purpose in your pantry by adding a hint of spice and deterring insects. These fiery peppers are excellent for repelling bugs like weevils and ants. Place them strategically in your pantry, especially near grains and pulses. The heat and aroma of dried chili peppers act as a natural bug deterrent, preserving your stored goods and adding a spicy twist to your dishes.
Whole Black Pepper
Whole black pepper is a potent insect deterrent for your food storage. Scatter a few whole black peppercorns in your pantry, particularly in corners and areas prone to bug infestations. They effectively repel weevils and ants, ensuring your stored food items remain protected from unwanted intruders, and your pantry stays bug-free.