No-Kill Alternatives for Pests

Most people think they have a right to smash, spray, or stomp anything that invades their space.  Believe me, I’m not a fan of bugs either.  If one comes within 100 feet of me I run screaming.  But I don’t believe it’s my place to kill them either.  Just because I don’t like something doesn’t automatically give me the right to kill it.  If that was the case then the population would be going down instead of up.

When pests invade your home, it’s hard to deal with, especially if you have a fear of them.  I usually use the carry it outside method, but when there’s more than one, sometimes you have to take action.  Things like mice, ants, and roaches especially become a problem this time of year.

Alternatives to killing the pests can actually benefit you as well as the creatures.  Natural methods of eliminating pests are usually better for the environment and safer for your home.  Sprays and poisons can be dangerous, especially if you have children or pets who can get into them.  Mouse traps are also dangerous and messy.

When you’re dealing with a specific pest, find out how to make your home a less inviting place for them.  There are natural options for discouraging every creature.  Here are some examples:

Mice – No-kill traps are available at most retail stores.  The Mice Cube has proven to be the most effective, and can be found in the pesticide section of Wal-Mart and also ordered online.  Not only does this save the lives of the mice, but you can reuse them instead of throwing out the traditional traps and buying more.  It’s also safer and has no mess.  Just make sure to release the mouse at least 300 feet away from your home or they will come back in!

Mice also hate peppermint oil.  If you place the oil around the area where the mice seem to be living, they will leave.  You can buy this online or at stores that carry various aromatherapy products or essential oils.

Ants – When you see one ant, there’s always going to be more.  This is probably one of the hardest pests to control, especially in the spring and summer.  By cleaning counters and windowsills with a mixture of 50/50 vinegar and water, you can help to deter the ants from entering.  Sprinkling black pepper along the areas where ants seem to be entering will also help keep them away.

Of course, the most important way to keep ants out is to make sure not to drop any food around the house.  They’re pretty stubborn and might ignore your vinegar and water to go for a big delicious crumb.

Roaches - A natural roach repellent can be made by combining 1 cup water, 1 tsp. salt, 20 drops of peppermint oil, and 10 drops of cypress oil.  Shake the mixture and spread it around the edges of the wall or where you have seen roaches.  You can also soak a cedar chip in the mixture and place them in the roach infested areas.

These are just a few examples of ways you can be nature-friendly and keep your home free of harsh chemicals and pesticides.  There is always a natural option for dealing with unwanted creatures, and it’s worth consideration.  If you’re dealing with a pest, look up natural alternatives online or feel free to send me a message and I will help!