8 Natural Remedies to Keep Insects Away

Arm yourself with knowledge and training for every type of disaster. Increase your physical security tactics. Boost your privacy practice.

SECURITY

10/4/20243 min read

Natural Remedies to Keep Insects Away During a Disaster

In the event of a disaster, maintaining safety and health is paramount. One often overlooked aspect is the presence of insects, which can pose health risks and disrupt your comfort. Chemical repellents may not be readily available or may have undesirable side effects, making natural remedies a viable option for pest control. Here are some effective natural remedies to keep insects away during a disaster.

1. Essential Oils

Essential oils are potent natural repellents that can effectively deter insects. Here are some commonly used oils:

Lavender Oil: The scent of lavender is pleasant to humans but repels mosquitoes and moths. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil and apply to your skin or use it in a diffuser.
Peppermint Oil: Known for its strong scent, peppermint oil can deter ants, spiders, and mosquitoes. Mix with water in a spray bottle and spray around your living area.
Eucalyptus Oil: Particularly effective against mosquitoes, eucalyptus oil can be mixed with a carrier oil for topical application or diluted in water for use in a spray.
Citronella Oil: Famous for its use in candles, citronella oil can be used in diffusers or mixed with water and sprayed around areas to keep mosquitoes at bay.

2. Herbs and Plants

Certain herbs and plants naturally repel insects due to their scents:

Basil: Growing basil around your shelter can deter mosquitoes and flies. You can also crush the leaves and rub them on your skin for added protection.
Mint: Similar to basil, mint plants can repel mosquitoes and ants. Planting mint around your home or placing crushed leaves in areas prone to insect activity can help.
Rosemary: This fragrant herb can keep mosquitoes and other pests away. Consider placing rosemary plants near entrances or using dried rosemary in sachets.
Lemon Balm: This member of the mint family has a strong lemon scent that repels mosquitoes. Grow it in your garden or keep potted plants indoors.

3. Vinegar

Vinegar is a versatile household product that can deter a variety of insects:

Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas where you notice insect activity. The strong smell can help keep pests away.
White Vinegar: Similar to apple cider vinegar, white vinegar can be used to clean surfaces and repel insects. Spray it around entry points and food preparation areas.

4. Boric Acid and Diatomaceous Earth

Both boric acid and diatomaceous earth are natural substances that can effectively control insect populations:

Boric Acid: A natural insecticide, boric acid can be used against ants and cockroaches. Sprinkle a small amount in areas where you see insect activity, ensuring it’s out of reach of children and pets.
Diatomaceous Earth: This fine powder is made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. It works by dehydrating insects when they come into contact with it. Sprinkle it in areas where pests are common, but take care to avoid inhalation.

5. Garlic

Garlic has natural insect-repelling properties due to its strong odor:

Garlic Spray: Blend a few cloves of garlic with water and strain the mixture. Use this garlic-infused water in a spray bottle to deter mosquitoes and other insects. The strong scent is effective in keeping them at bay.

6. Coffee Grounds

Used coffee grounds can act as a natural insect repellent:

Sprinkling Grounds: Spread used coffee grounds around your outdoor living areas to deter mosquitoes and other pests. The strong smell can keep them away while also enriching the soil.

7. Citrus Peels

Insects tend to dislike the strong scent of citrus:

Citrus Repellent: Place citrus peels (like orange or lemon) around your home, especially near entry points. You can also crush the peels to release more oils and scents that repel insects.

8. Natural Traps

Creating natural traps can help reduce insect populations:

Sugar and Soap Trap: Mix sugar water with a few drops of dish soap in a bowl. The sugar attracts insects like fruit flies, while the soap traps them.
Beer Trap for Slugs and Snails: Bury a shallow container in the ground and fill it with beer. Slugs and snails will be attracted to the smell and drown in the liquid.

Conclusion

Natural remedies provide effective solutions for keeping insects away during a disaster. By utilizing essential oils, herbs, vinegar, and other natural substances, you can create a pest-free environment without relying on chemical repellents. Preparation is key, so gather these remedies in advance, ensuring you’re equipped to handle insect issues while focusing on the challenges at hand. By implementing these natural strategies, you can maintain a safer and more comfortable living space during difficult times.