Inexpensive kitchen cabinet staples can keep bugs out of your home

Good summer! As the mercury rises, so do the swarms of pests wreaking havoc on our picnics, outdoor entertaining – and eventually, infesting our homes. Whether it’s our drinks or our food, flying insects top our list of unwanted guests this time of year.

“The heatwave has brought glorious sunshine – and scorching temperatures mean windows and doors will be wide open to draw in fresh air,” says Rachael Kiss, Marketing Manager for Alliance Online. “Unfortunately, flying insects such as flies, mosquitoes, wasps and wasps seek refuge indoors to escape the heat, which can be incredibly frustrating.”

To help reduce the number, check out these handy hacks and tips…

Set DIY traps

“A great trick to rid your home of bugs is to make DIY traps using what’s already in your cupboards,” says Kiss.

Fill a small bowl or jar with apple cider vinegar or a combination of dish soap and red wine. Cover the container with plastic wrap and strategically poke small holes in the plastic wrap that will be large enough for flies and other insects to enter.”

Kiss says the scent will attract insects, and they’ll be trapped when they try to get to the liquid.

Use essential oils to deter wasps

Wasps are a little more difficult to treat than flies, notes Kiss, but essential oils can do the trick.

“Peppermint oil has been proven to be a natural wasp repellent—mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and apply it to entry points, such as doors and windows, where wasps are active,” says Kiss.

Clove oil, lemon essential oil and eucalyptus oil work in the same way – and you can take it a step further by using them in your cleansing routine.

“Add lemon and peppermint essential oils to your household cleaners as many flying insects hate these smells,” says Robert Collins, pest control expert for Myjobquote.co.uk.

“Wipe your kitchen surfaces and window sills regularly with the scented detergent not only keeps your home clean and smelling good, but also repels flies, wasps and wasps.”

Strategically place plants and cut flowers

Suzie Woolley, head of product for Serenata Flowers, suggests extending your scent trail by using flowers and greenery to deter flying insects.

“Cut stems you can use to repel insects include chrysanthemums—a florist’s favorite for their bold color variety and longevity—contain high levels of pyrethrum, which is often used in insecticides,” she explains.

“You can also use types of eucalyptus, including lemon eucalyptus, which contain high levels of citronella, widely known and used for its insect-repelling abilities.”

Woolley goes on to say that potted lavender, mint, thyme etc are also great options as they can easily be moved to open doors and windows in the summer months.

Invest in window treatments

Collins suggests screening open windows and doors so you can bring in sunlight and ventilate your home without letting flies, wasps, and other insects in.

“You can buy mesh screens and chain-link curtains, but they’re not everyone’s cup of tea,” notes Collins. “Voile curtains over doors and night and day blinds on windows can work just as well – and look more attractive.”

Keep food covered

“A simple but often forgotten hack in reducing flying insects in the home is to keep food covered!” Kiss explained.

“During a heat wave, insects are more attracted to food sources. Make sure all food is covered, sealed or stored in insect-proof containers to prevent attracting them in the first place.”