Few things ruin a peaceful evening at home faster than pests. You sit down with dinner, only to find a fly circling your plate like it paid rent. You turn on the kitchen light, and there it is—a cockroach scurrying for cover under the sink. Mosquitoes, buzzing in the background, wait for their chance to feast. These small but persistent invaders make homes feel less like sanctuaries and more like battlegrounds. But here’s the good news: you probably already have the tools to fight back, tucked away in your bathroom and pantry
The trick relies on a combination of everyday ingredients that, when mixed together, create a scent and atmosphere that bugs can’t stand. Unlike chemical sprays or expensive traps, this is a quick, affordable, and non-toxic way to reclaim your home.
Why It Works
The foundation of this natural deterrent lies in peppermint, baking soda, and vinegar. Each on its own has properties that pests dislike, but together, they pack a punch.
Peppermint and mint toothpaste release a sharp, cooling fragrance that flies, mosquitoes, and roaches find overwhelming. Insects rely heavily on scent to navigate and locate food sources. When their environment smells like a cloud of mint, it disorients them, pushing them to flee rather than settle.
Pair that with the fizzing reaction between baking soda and vinegar. When combined, the mixture produces carbon dioxide and a brief foaming action. While short-lived, this reaction intensifies the odor and leaves behind a subtle, lingering sharpness in the air. Roaches, in particular, dislike the disruption and chemical edge of this blend. Together, the toothpaste, soda, and vinegar create a hostile environment for pests without being harsh on your home.
What You’ll Need
