10 Natural Insect Repellents You Can Find In Your Kitchen

By Shireen Jamooji

When it comes to dealing with pesky bugs and insects, you don't always need to rely on chemical-laden products. Your kitchen is filled with natural ingredients that can effectively repel and eliminate these unwanted visitors.  Here are ten simple solutions made from kitchen ingredients to combat bugs and insects:

Vinegar

Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray directly on surfaces or areas where bugs are present to repel them.

Citrus Peel

Place citrus peels, such as orange or lemon, near entry points to deter ants and other insects due to their strong scent.

Garlic Solution

Blend garlic cloves with water, strain, and transfer to a spray bottle. Spray around plants to repel aphids, mosquitoes, and other bugs.

Cinnamon Shield

Sprinkle cinnamon powder along window sills, doorways, and other entry points to prevent ants from entering your home.

Peppermint Oil

Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water and spray in areas infested with spiders, ants, or flies to repel them.

Salt

Create a barrier by sprinkling salt around doorways, windows, and cracks to deter crawling insects like slugs and snails.

Coffee Grounds

Spread used coffee grounds around plants to repel pests like slugs, snails, and ants while also enriching the soil.

Neem Oil

Mix neem oil with water and spray on plants to deter a wide range of insects, including aphids, mites, and caterpillars.

Cayenne Spray

Mix cayenne pepper with water and spray around plants to deter chewing insects like beetles and caterpillars.

Borax

Mix borax with powdered sugar and place it in a container with small holes. The sugar attracts ants, while the borax kills them when ingested.