Reliable DIY Pest Control Methods: What Actually Works?
We’ve all heard at least a few bizarre suggestions or “life hacks” on how to improve the quality of our lives using creative and unusual home solutions. When it comes to pest control, people have invented numerous tricks to keep bugs and rodents out of their homes and lawns. But do any of these crazy tricks actually work? In order to help clarify which unconventional pest control methods are actually effective and which are a waste of time, we’ve compiled the following list:
Fact: Cucumber Slices May Discourage Bugs From Roaming
Placing slices of cucumber near stored foods or at points of entry can deter pests from exploring your home for food sources. Many types of ants have an inherent aversion to cucumber. Cockroaches can also be repelled by placing cucumber, bay leaves, or garlic in strategic locations.
Myth: Sprinkling Grits On The Kitchen Counter Will Keep Ants Away
Many species of ants like grits just as much as you do (or more, depending on how you feel about grits). Sprinkling grits on your kitchen counter or floor is actually more likely to attract pests, rather than deter them. Therefore, it is recommended that you limit your use of grits to breakfast only.
Myth: It’s Best To Bait A Mousetrap With Cheese
Generally speaking, mice don’t like cheese. Mice prefer foods higher in carbohydrates, so baiting your traps with peanut butter or chocolate will yield better results than trying to lure mice with cheese. It’s not exactly known why mice have long been associated with cheese, but it may have something to do with stoic Roman philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca, who refers to a mouse eating his cheese in one of his books.
Fact: Catnip May Repel Cockroaches
Catnip is an easy, natural way to help keep cockroaches at bay. The active ingredient that drives cockroaches away is nepetalactone. Placing fresh or dried catnip in areas of insect activity may deter cockroaches from emerging. Alternatively, you can brew catnip leaves into a “catnip tea” and apply the substance to problem areas with a spray bottle. Treating your home with catnip may reduce the number of cockroaches scurrying around; just be sure not to attract too many neighborhood cats!
Myth: Placing Pennies In A Plastic Bag Will Send Flies Away
Many restaurant owners or frequent barbecuers will swear by this method: Place four pennies in a Ziploc bag, fill it with water, and hang it in an area that receives sunlight to keep flies out of your proximity. While the origins of this pest control myth are open to speculation, the reasoning behind its “success” are even more convoluted. Some bogus theories hypothesize that the refracted light disorients flies by altering their sense of direction, or that they are frightened by their own magnified reflections. Multiple studies have shown, however, that the penny-water-bag trick does nothing to repel flies.
As far as more proven methods are concerned, we’ve got you covered. The professionals at JP Pest Services can control unwanted pests on your property quickly and completely! Contact JP Pest Services to request a free residential estimate or commercial consultation today!
