Natural, Eco-Friendly Ways to Repel Rodents and Insects

Suspicious noises and shadowy figures at night? These uninvited furry guests can often sneak in unnoticed. Here are gentle, eco-friendly ways to keep your home safe—without toxic chemicals.

1. Onions
Their strong smell repels rodents. Place fresh slices near entry points and replace every 2–3 days.

2. Ammonia Spray
Mix 2 tsp detergent, 60 ml water, and 500 ml ammonia in a spray bottle. Spray in rodent-prone areas—the smell mimics predators and drives them away.

3. Bay Leaves
Dried bay leaves attract but poison rats when consumed. Scatter crumbled leaves on known paths and refresh weekly.

4. Baking Soda Bait
Combine 250g each of flour, sugar (or cocoa), and baking soda. Place in small dishes near rodent activity. It’s safe for pets and children.

5. Peppermint Oil
Soak cotton balls in peppermint essential oil and place them in key areas. Reapply weekly. Planting mint outside also acts as a deterrent.

6. Used Tea Bags
After brewing, place tea bags in kitchens or near trash bins. Their scent repels rodents and spiders—an easy zero-waste tip.

7. Cockroach Control
Mix 4 tbsp liquid detergent with 1L water for a fast-acting spray. Or blend Neem leaves with 1.5L water and apply to cracks—it halts reproduction.

8. Red Wine Spray
Surprisingly, spraying low-quality red wine in infested spots can kill cockroaches in a day.

9. Garlic Spray
Soak crushed garlic in water and spray around your home. Its strong scent keeps various pests away.