How to Control Bugs Naturally: Frugal and Green

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By Patti Winters
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Control Bugs Naturally

Do you have a few little pests around the house and want to get rid of them naturally? Many people are trying to find more green and natural ways of doing everyday tasks, and saving a little cash at the same time is just an added benefit.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

PREVENTION: Prevention is the safest and best option for pest control. Installing weather stripping around doors, caulking any open gaps around windows, and sealing any openings to the exterior of the home (caulk or expanding foam are both good alternatives for this) is your first level of defense against household pests. Next, consider anything that may be attracting pests and remove it. Are there any food crumbs or a water source that could be attracting the bugs? NOTE: Leaking plumbing is a possible water source to attract pests.
Step 2

ANTS: If you still see ants in your home after sealing the house and eliminating food and water that may be attracting them, try to find out how they are getting in. You may have missed a small opening that you can go back and seal. Any visible ants can be killed by spraying with a solution of 1 part dishwashing detergent to 4 parts of water. Beyond Pesticides offers the following natural ant bait for those times the above steps don't completely solve the problem. Combine 1/3 cup of apple-mint jelly with 1 teaspoon of 99% pure boric acid. Set out dabs of the mixture where you've noticed the ants.
Step 3

ROACHES: Boric acid is also effective against roaches. It can be sprinkled in out of the way places, such as under the sink, and behind the refrigerator and/or stove. This is expected to work when they walk through the powder and then ingest it. A bait can also be made by mixing the boric acid with a little flour or sugar. Place the bait in a saucer in an out of the way place.
Step 4

SPIDERS: Luckily if you see a spider, that may be the only one. Catch the spider with a cup/jar and a piece of paper, then it can be released outside. If you do notice any spider eggs or cobwebs vacuum them up, to prevent future spider issues.