Keeping Bugs Away

Fighting off insects is part of the homeownership package. This can become even more evident in the Spring when everything begins to bloom and come alive.

There are natural ways to fight pests and make your home less inviting to unwanted bugs or creepy crawlies.

Here are a few home remedies you may want to try out this Spring.The first line of defense is a clean home – no crumbs, dirty dishes or running water that might attract area bugs.

Ants dislike lemon juice, coffee grounds, mint and cucumber. Keep a night light on for a few nights to disrupt the ants typical hunting patterns.

Spray roaches with soapy water. Roaches are not a fan of bay leaves – try crumpling some up around baseboards or leaving whole leaves on the windowsill.

Spiders hate peppermint oil. Put some in a spray bottle and spray along the outside of your home or put a few drops on a cosmetic puff and leave them behind furniture or cabinets in your house.

To keep mosquitoes away – plant rosemary, catnip or marigolds.

Of course this remedies are only a first step. For real pest problems it's a good idea to talk to a professional

.

What home remedies do you have to keep pests from bugging you?