When insects begin appearing around doors, windows, kitchens, or bathrooms, many people look for simple alternatives before turning to chemical sprays.
Strong natural aromas such as citrus, peppermint, cloves, and cinnamon are often used in homemade insect deterrents because some insects dislike these scents. While these mixtures won’t eliminate an infestation, they may help discourage insects from entering certain areas when combined with good household hygiene.
Here are several popular homemade methods for reducing unwanted visitors around your home.
1. A Citrus and Spice Doorway Spray
This aromatic spray is designed to freshen the area around entrances while creating scents that some insects tend to avoid.
Ingredients
- Peels from one lemon
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- A generous handful of whole cloves
- A few drops of peppermint essential oil
- Enough rubbing alcohol or high-proof vodka to cover the ingredients
Instructions
Place the lemon peels into a glass jar or bottle.
Add the cinnamon sticks and cloves.
Pour in the peppermint oil.
Cover everything with alcohol.
Seal the container and allow it to steep for 24 hours.
Strain the liquid and pour it into a spray bottle.
Lightly spray around:
- Exterior doors
- Window frames
- Garage entrances
- Patio doors
- Baseboards where insects may enter
Avoid spraying directly onto painted surfaces, delicate finishes, or natural stone until testing a small hidden area first.
