10 domestic insects and natural remedies to eliminate them (2023)

Regardless of whether you can see them, there are bugs in your home.

A study ofPeerJfound that an average American home is inhabited by 100 different species of arthropods. The Arthropoda category includes just about every insect you can imagine, including spiders, bugs, centipedes, mites, and butterflies. Arthropods make up 75% of life on Earth, so it is not surprising that they have adapted to coexist with humans and have also exploited our habitats.

When it comes to household bugs, these unwanted companions can vary in their visibility and impact on your home. A lone spider in a dusty corner can't hurt anyone, but a bed bug infestation will definitely leave its mark. While it's tempting to stock up on repellent aisle at your local hardware store when you have a bug infestation, these products can contain toxic chemicals that aren't healthy for you and your family (including your pets), as well as harmful to the earth.

Fortunately, there are many common household items that can help you deal with your pest problem. These home remedies are easy to make and will helpKeep insects away from your homein a safe way. Save our screenshot for a quick reference on how to get rid of bugs naturally!

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while someHomeowners are responsible for pest control, often take time to deal with the infestation or use potentially harmful products. The next time you encounter one of these common house bugs, try taking preventative measures with these natural remedies.

Household bugs found in your kitchen

While bugs can be found in every part of your home, here are some of the most common pests in your kitchen – plus some tips for keeping them at bay.

1. Ants

Ants are one of the most common household insects found in any climate. If you've ever had an ant infestation, you know how these little critters can get into every corner of your home.

Not only can ants contaminate food by depositing dirt and feces inside it, but they can also pose a threat to your home. For example, carpenter ants are capable of drilling through wood and damaging the structure of your home.

Natural ways to get rid of ants

you will wantget rid of ants, as soon as you can. There are many ant sprays on the market, but many contain chemicals that can be harmful to you and your pets. For a natural ant repellant and ant trap, try the following recipes.

• Vinegar and Water Spray:Combine a mixture of half white vinegar and half water in a spray bottle. Spray this on any ants you find. Then clean the area. The vinegar will overwhelm the ant's sense of smell and it won't come back.
• Cayenne pepper, cornmeal or coffee:Another way to disturb the ants' sense of smell without making your home smell like vinegar is to sprinkle cayenne pepper, cornmeal or coffee grounds around the area where the ants are coming from. These items keep ants from smelling the food in your home as well as other ants. The powdery texture will also cause ants to avoid the area.
• Spray Soap:If you want a spray that will kill ants in your home and clean your surfaces, try a mixture of dish soap and water. Fill the spray bottle three-quarters full and add 10 to 20 drops of natural dish soap. Shake to mix, then spray onto problem areas.

2. Flies

There are many types of flies you can find in your kitchen, but the two most common are house flies and fruit flies. These flies can easily enter your home through cracks in screens or open doors. You're drawn to old groceries that might just be lying around, whether it's your overflowing trash can or the old fruit on your counter.

Not only can flies be a nuisance buzzing around your home, they can also be dangerous because they carry and spread disease. They are responsible for spreading salmonella, E.coli and food poisoning.

Get rid of flies naturally

To reduce the fly population in your home and prevent the risk of disease, consider making a natural homemade fly trap.

• Frasco Flytrap:A good way to kill these disease-spreading creatures is to set up a trap. Fill a pitcher with about an inch of apple cider vinegar. Add a few drops of floral detergent. Use plastic wrap to cover the pot. Secure it with an elastic band. Punch holes in the plastic wrap to give the flies an entry point.
• fruit trap:This trap is for fruit flies, but may work for other strains as well. Cut a piece of fruit about 2.5 cm thick. Place in a bowl cut side up. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and secure with tape or rubber band. Use a toothpick to poke holes in the top and leave in a secluded area of ​​the kitchen.

3. Indian Mehl Butterflies

Indian flour moths are commonly found in kitchens and pantries. These nocturnal bugs sneak into your home in the middle of the night and lay their microscopic eggs in flour, cereals, grains, seeds, candy and dry pet food.

The main danger of Indian moths is that they spoil your food. When they invade your pantry, they bring with them their webs, feces and skin, which contaminate your food.

Natural ways to get rid of indian flour moths

To prevent yourwell stocked pantryTo prevent them from turning into litter, you must take precautions to drive Indian flour moths out of your home. Using chemical solutions in your pantry can be dangerous, so finding a natural solution is the best way to treat these pests.

• Clean your cans and bags:When it comes to flour moths, prevention is the best tactic. These flour moths are often found on shipping pallets and can sneak into your home through cans and bags of dry food. Cleaning the cans and bags with a warm, soapy cloth will help prevent it from spreading to the rest of the food.
• Sprinkle the bay leaves:A natural remedy to deter Indian flour moths is to sprinkle bay leaves in your kitchen cupboards. These strong-smelling sheets will keep these bugs from setting up camp in your pantry.

4. Cockroaches

Cockroaches are among the most common unwanted household insects and can be found all over the world. You are capablefind your way to your apartmentthrough small holes and cracks in walls or through pipes. Cockroaches seek shelter in tight spaces, so they are often found under sinks and in dark drawers.

Cockroaches don't bite, but they are known to cause health problems. Your skin and waste can cause allergies or asthma symptoms.

Natural ways to get rid of cockroaches

Pesticides can rid your home of these pests, but they can also harm human health. Instead, try these natural solutions to rid your home of cockroaches.

• wine bottle trap:Fill the bottom of an old wine bottle with something sticky that attracts roaches, like maple syrup or peanut butter. Then line the inside of the wine bottle cap with cooking oil (being careful not to spill it on the outside of the bottle). Cockroaches are attracted by the sweet contents, but remain trapped inside because they cannot climb back up the slippery walls.
• catnip:This plant produces a strong-smelling oil thatgatosI love but hate cockroaches. Fill small bags with fresh catnip or cotton balls containing nepetalactone essential oil. Place this backpack in places where you've seen cockroaches.

Household bugs found in your room

A bedroom is a place of rest and relaxation, but you don't want it to be too comfortable for pests. There are some common bedroom bugs that you may encounter that can cause discomfort and sometimes even harm.

5. Fleas

Fleas are a common household insect, especially for pet owners. These little creatures can live from several weeks to several months, but they reproduce easily, so even a flea can become a nuisance in your home. Fleas can jump nearly a foot, so they are often transmitted by jumping on people or pets.

Flea bites are more common on pets than humans. These bites usually cause excessive itching. Occasionally, flea bites can also lead to an infection or allergic reaction from flea saliva.

Natural ways to get rid of fleas

Since pets are a prime target for these pests, it's important to find a natural way to get rid of them that won't harm your furry friend.

• Vegetable flea spray:For non-toxic removal, try making an herbal flea spray. Start by vacuuming the entire house and washing all items on the hottest wash setting. Then combine 4 cups of vinegar, 2 cups of water, 4 ounces of lemon juice, and 2 ounces of witch hazel in a two-quart spray bottle. Spray everything around the house, including carpets, furniture, and pet bedding.
• Sal:Salt is able to dehydrate fleas and kill them. Try sprinkling finely ground salt on carpets. Leave for a day and then vacuum.
• Rosemary and Lemon Spray:Start by boiling 4 cups of water and remove from heat. Add 6 thinly sliced ​​lemons, chopped rosemary leaves and 3-4 drops of geranium essential oil. Cover and leave overnight. The next day, strain the water and put it in a spray bottle. Spray this natural solution throughout your home to repel fleas.

6. Bedbugs

Bed bugs are an unfortunate and common bed bug in the bedroom. They are small enough to take with you in suitcases, boxes and shoes. Therefore, they are usually found in the summer, when people tend to be more willing to travel.

Bedbugs do not transmit diseases, but they feed on human blood. Their bites are usually not painful, but they leave small, red, itchy patches on the skin.

Get rid of bed bugs naturally

Sometimes it can take a while to wrap up an exterminator or you don't want the toxic chemicals they use somewhere you sleep. In these situations, home remedies for bed bugs can help.

• Use steam cleaner or hairdryer:Bed bugs and their eggs are killed when exposed to high temperatures. Steam cleaning areas where bed bugs are found exposes them to temperatures in excess of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don't have a steam cleaner, try bringing a hair dryer to the area.
• Spray:The baking soda will absorb moisture from the bed bugs and kill them. Spray the area and surrounding spaces with baking soda. Leave for an hour and then vacuum. Repeat this process every few days to ensure all errors are resolved.

Household bugs found throughout the house

Some common household bugs lurk throughout your home. Although you don't often see these pests, you can sometimes hear them or see their effects.

7. The grill

House crickets are a popular species of crickets. As the name suggests, they are found around the home and are attracted to warm, humid environments. If you have a cricket infestation, you will hear their chirping or find a chewed rag.

Although crickets are not harmful, their loud chirping is enough to drive you crazy. This chirping is a mating call that occurs when male crickets rub their forewings together.

Natural ways to get rid of crickets

If you have male crickets in your home, get rid of them as soon as possible to find some peace and quiet. Here are some home remedies to get rid of crickets in your home.

• Molasses:Create a trap by filling a jar halfway with molasses. The sweet smell will seduce you and the sticky texture will lock you in.
• Chili-Spray:Create a spray by boiling 2 cups of water and adding 1/2 cup of red pepper, red chili powder, or chili sauce. Strain the liquid and add another 2 cups of water. Place a spray bottle inside and spray the outside of your home to keep crickets away. Do not use this spray indoors as the paint may stain furniture or carpets.

8. Spiders

Another common household insect you'll probably want to get rid of is spiders. There are nearly 4,000 species of spiders, some more likely to be seen in your home than others. Some common species are the American house spider, the black widow, the daddy longlegged, and the native house spider.

Depending on the species, spiders can be harmless or poisonous. The harmless varieties keep to themselves but form cobwebs all over the house. The most venomous cause spider bites, which are itchy at best and deadly at worst.

Natural ways to get rid of spiders

Spider appearances in the home increase as the weather gets colder. If so, you must find a natural way to keep them at bay.

• citrine:Spiders are repelled by citrus scents. Try rubbing citrus zest into baseboards, windowsills, and bookshelves. This will keep your home smelling nice and keep critters away.
• DIY Spinnenspray:Create a spider spray by mixing water and a few drops of essential oils. Spider repellent scents include eucalyptus, citronella, lavender, peppermint, tea tree, cinnamon, citrus and cedar. Spray in areas where you find spiders, especially if it's been raining or cold.

9. termites

There are over 40 species of termites found in the United States, but most are similar. These silent insects eat the cellulose-based plant materials that all houses are made of.

These insects do not pose a threat to humans, but they are a threat to the structure of your home and your furniture. If termites are found in your home, it's possible they will need to be eliminated beyond your home, which will take some work.

Natural ways to get rid of termites

It is important that you try to rid your home of these pests as soon as one is detected. Here are some home remedies to get rid of termites.

• Nasser Cardboard:Termites love water and cellulose, and that's wet cardboard. Place wet cardboard pieces in areas where you suspect termites are present. Once the termites are settled on the cardboard, take the piece and burn it. Repeat this process until the errors disappear.
• Sun light:Termites not only thrive in dark, damp places, they can also die from sunlight and heat. If your furniture has termites and you live in a sunny city, take your furniture outside on a hot day. If termites are in your home, try placing UV lights in the area.

Household bugs found in your bathroom

Many insects are attracted to damp places, making your bathroom your sanctuary. To prevent bugs from nesting in your bathroom, clean all wet surfaces while showering and keep the fan on.

10. Silverfish

Also known as paramitas, carpet sharks or moths, moths are metallic in appearance and oval in shape. They are usually found in wet, damp areas like bathrooms and basements. Silverfish are good at hiding and sometimes go unnoticed by home occupants.

Silverfish are not dangerous to humans, but they can cause damage to property. Silverfish feed on polysaccharides found in glue, book covers and rugs. This means they destroy oftenshelves, artwork and other home decorations.

Natural ways to get rid of moths

It's possible to keep your bathroom clean without using toxic chemicals. Here are some ways to rid your home of moths.

• cedar shavings:Silverfish don't like the smell of cedar wood. Scatter cedar shavings in areas where you've seen this pest to scare them off. If the cedar gets damp or old, vacuum it up and replace it.
• Glaskik:Cover the outside of a jar with tape and place a few pieces of bread inside. Place the vial in an area where you saw the silverfish. Leave it there overnight. The silverfish can climb the rough texture of the ribbon, but it will get stuck if it can't climb the smooth inner glass.

Sources

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