Ten Tips To Keep Your Home Bug Free

No one likes bugs. They're creepy, they can be dangerous, and they're just plain icky. So it's no surprise that so many people go to great lengths to keep their homes bug-free. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths and misinformation out there about how to do this. Here are ten tips that will actually help you get rid of the bugs in your home for good.

 

1. Keep your home clean and clutter-free.

Bugs are attracted to dirt, darkness, and cluttered areas. The best way to keep them away is to keep your house clean and tidy. Vacuum regularly, dust often, and make sure there are no dark corners or hiding places for bugs to set up shop.

 

2. Use lemon juice as a natural bug repellent.

Lemon juice is a great way to naturally repel bugs. Simply mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and spritz it around your home, paying special attention to cracks and crevices where bugs like to hide. You can also use lemon peels as a barrier around doors and windowsills.

 

3. Make a homemade bug trap.

If you have a bug problem that you just can't seem to get rid of, try making a homemade trap. Fill a jar with some sweet liquid like honey or syrup and cover the top with plastic wrap. Punch a few holes in the top and set the trap out where bugs are a problem. The bugs will be attracted to the sweetness, crawl in through the holes, and then won't be able to get back out again.

 

4. Get rid of standing water.

Standing water is a breeding ground for all sorts of bugs, so it's important to get rid of it if you want to keep your home bug-free. Empty out any unused flowerpots, pet bowls, or other containers that may be holding water. Fix any leaks and make sure your gutters are clean, so they're not collecting water.

 

5. Keep food sealed up tight.

Bugs are attracted to food, so it's important to keep anything that might be appealing to them sealed up tightly. Store pantry items in airtight containers and don't leave any food out on countertops or tables. Be sure to clean up any spills immediately as well.

 

6. Take out the trash regularly.

Trash is another thing that bugs love, so it's important to take it out regularly and keep your garbage cans clean. Empty them out often and scrub them down with soap and water to get rid of any lingering food smells that might attract bugs.

 

7. Use vinegar to get rid of fruit flies.

Fruit flies are attracted to the sweetness of fruits and vegetables, so they can be a real problem in the kitchen. To get rid of them, fill a jar with equal parts vinegar and water and add a drop or two of dish soap. Set the jar out where the fruit flies are, and they'll be drawn in by the sweetness but won't be able to escape because of the dish soap.

 

8. Make a DIY bug repellent spray.

There are all sorts of commercial bug sprays on the market, but you can also make your own at home using essential oils. Simply mix together water, witch hazel, and a few drops of your chosen essential oil in a spray bottle. Spray it around your home, paying special attention to door and window frames, and enjoy the fresh scent while keeping bugs at bay.

 

9. Plant bug-repelling plants around your home.

There are certain plants that bugs just don't like, so planting them around your home can help keep them away. Some good options include lavender, basil, rosemary, and mint. Not only will these plants help keep bugs away, but they'll also make your home smell nice!

 

10. Call in professional help.

If you've tried everything, and you're still dealing with a bug problem, it may be time to call in professional help. Pest control companies can help you identify the source of the problem and get rid of it for good.

 

Following these tips will help you keep your home bug-free all year round.