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Nature provides us with alternatives to toxic chemicals; harmless but effective defenses to ward off those pesky insects that want in our picnics and outdoor activities and then invite themselves into our houses to further annoy us.
Cockroaches are another one of those nasty insects that can be bothersome and embarrassing, as many people equate the presence of cockroaches with an unclean environment. Even the cleanest of homes can and will have the occasional cockroach. The problem with roaches is where there is one there may be many. At the first sign of a single roach you should get in gear and eliminate the problem quickly. Here are some steps to take to rid your home or apartment of a pending cockroach problem:
- Vacuum completely all areas of the house. Remove the bag from the vacuum cleaner and seal it in an air tight bag and then dispose of it. Roaches lay eggs; this is what you are vacuuming up; those eggs can still hatch inside the bag and if you don’t dispose of the bag you will continue to have a problem.
- Wash and mop with strong soapy water.
- Because roaches like high places, putting boric acid on the top of your cabinets will cause the roaches to binge on it and then bring it back to their nest, killing all the roaches in that nest.
- Catnip is toxic to roaches but not to humans or pets. Leave little pouches of it in areas where roaches might be found. You can also make a formula of tea using catnip which then you pour into spray bottles. Spray the baseboards and areas where roaches may find their way into your home.
- Soapy water kills roaches immediately. Keep a bottle on hand and spray the roach or roaches directly with the soapy water.
These are but a few of the natural ways you can rid your home of this most unpleasant visitor.
Continue reading after recommendations
- www.eartheasy.com/live_natpest_control.htm
- www.thefrugallife.com/mosquitoes.html