Many homeowners experience headaches over common household pests ranging from ticks, moths, ants, other insects, mice – the list goes on.
Many synthetic chemical solutions already exist to tackle these problems, but in recent years, more and more people – professional pest-control companies included – have been opting to find natural solutions. Not only are natural solutions better for us, as human users, but these natural materials are also safer for the environment and, oftentimes, even our pets.
One of the ingredients that has recently been getting more and more attention as a natural home repellent can even help freshen up your home, on top of ridding it of pests: Mint.
This fresh herb has a myriad of functions around the home and can be employed in a variety of ways.
Placing fresh mint in your pantry and kitchen can keep out ants. Hanging bundles of dried mint in your closet can drive away moths and flies. Rubbing crushed mint onto your pets can help them evade insect bites.
One word of caution that gardeners have, however, is that mint is an invasive plant species. When mint is planted in the ground it will expand to the surrounding areas and isn’t easy to control once it has spread. If you plan on keeping fresh, live mint around your house, gardeners advise you to keep it in a pot to avoid running into problems maintaining it in the future.
Here are some ways you can utilize mint around your home to keep it fresh, clean, and pest-free:
- Place pots of fresh mint around screen doors, windows, or openings around your home to deter rats from entering.
- Hang sachets or bundles of dried mint in your closet or pantry to keep out flies, moths, and ants.
- Make insect spray by combining mint oil or crushed mint leaves with rubbing alcohol.
Best of luck, and happy housekeeping!
