The benefits are clear:
Safe to use around children and pets.
Non-toxic, eco-friendly, and gentle on skin.
Effective against multiple common pests
. Easy and inexpensive to make at home.
Versatile, works in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and entryways.
What You’ll Need
To make your own homemade pest repellent, you’ll only need a few everyday items:
Ingredients:
1 cup liquid dish soap: Helps the mixture stick to surfaces and repel bugs.
2 cups ethyl alcohol or apple cider vinegar: Acts as a disinfectant and insect repellent.
2 tablespoons whole cloves: Release a strong odor that pests hate.
1/4 cup water: Used to soak the cloves and release their natural oils.
Note: If you want to avoid alcohol in your home, apple cider vinegar is a safe and effective alternative.
How to Make the Spray
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your natural insect solution:
Step 1: Boil the Cloves
Start by boiling ¼ cup of water in a small pot.
Once it reaches a full boil, add the 2 tablespoons of whole cloves. Let the cloves boil for 1 minute, then remove the pot from the heat. Cover the pot and let the cloves sit for 10 minutes; this step helps release the oils and natural pest-repellent compounds.
The scent may be strong, but that’s exactly what makes this remedy work so well.
Step 2: Mix detergent and alcohol (or vinegar)
In a separate container, mix:
1 cup liquid dish soap
2 cups ethyl alcohol or apple cider vinegar
Stir the mixture until fully combined. The detergent helps the spray adhere to surfaces, while the alcohol or vinegar acts as a natural pest repellent.
Step 3: Combine and Mix
Once the clove water has cooled, strain out the cloves and pour the infused liquid into the detergent and vinegar/alcohol mixture.
Stir well until the solution is smooth and uniform.
Then, transfer the mixture to a clean spray bottle. Shake gently before each use to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
How to Use Natural Spray
Once your homemade spray is ready, it’s time to put it to use. Use it in areas most likely to have pests, especially:
Along baseboards
Around doors and windows
Under and behind kitchen appliances
In corners and bathroom sinks
Around pet beds, where fleas can accumulate
Near garbage bins or food storage areas
Spray the solution liberally on these surfaces and let it air dry. You will notice a strong odor at first, but it will disappear within a few hours, although it still leaves a residual effect that insects do not like.
Reapply regularly, especially after cleaning or if the area has been heavily trafficked. As a preventative measure, use the spray 2 or 3 times per week in high-risk areas.
