Living in a humid and warm country, it is inevitable that we see all sorts of creepy crawlies in our daily lives. What’s more absurd than having these uninvited guests staying at our houses without even contributing to the rent. Here is a list of the pesky creatures that you might come across at your home.
6 BUGS THAT MIGHT BE LIVING UNDER THE SAME ROOF AS YOU
MOSQUITOES does more than giving you a few itchy patches on skin, they can also transmit deadly diseases through their bites. Any mediums with stagnant water like the gutter will be the perfect spot for them to lay eggs.
HOUSEFLIES love to hang around filthy objects like garbage, spoiled foods, faeces… you name it and guess what? They love your food as much as you do. They can be a big nuisance at the dining table but the worse problem is that they bring along viruses.
COCKROACH can be the biggest nightmare for some people especially when they start flying. They can easily squeeze through small cracks and end up in any part of your house while carrying diseases.
BED BUGS are like the vampires of the insect world as they live off human and animal’s blood. Although they may not carry any diseases, bed bugs can cause discomfort and worries as you lay on your bed.
Similar to bed bugs, these microscopic pests seek comfort on your mattress, bedding and even your carpet. Some people experience allergic reactions towards DUST MITES such as sneezing, hay fever and asthma.
SILVERFISH are most definitely not fishes and they do not pose threats to humans. However, these fish-like fellas can cause havoc to your household belongings as they damage objects made out of paper like wallpaper and books.
DEET-based chemical repellents are well-known for their high effectiveness in warding off insects but they pose a potential risk towards the environment and human health. If you are just wanting to make sure that insect infestation does not happen at your home, natural remedies might be an overall friendlier choice.
Lemon Eucalyptus oil
Lemon Eucalyptus oil is a natural ingredient commonly used to make insect repellent. Mix 1 part of lemon eucalyptus oil with 10 parts of sunflower oil and spray onto your skin to prevent mosquito bites.
Lavender
Lavender does more so than helping you sleep better, it also helps to prevent mosquitoes buzzing around your room. You can choose to rub the oil on your skin or apply a few drops on your clothing.
Cinnamon oil
Besides proven to be beneficial to human health, cinnamon oil can repel mosquitoes and even kill their eggs. Mix ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon oil with four ounces of water and spray on your skin or any objects that are most likely to become a mosquito habitat.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint are some of the natural fragrances that can prevent ants, mosquitoes and even spiders crawling into your home. Mix 10 drops of peppermint oil with 1 cup of water and spray on window surfaces.
Bay leaves
This fragrant ingredient can effectively keep silverfish, flies and roaches at bay. You can find dried bay leaves available at your local grocery and simply lay them around your house.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass repels mosquitoes and flies while studies have successfully shown the toxicity of lemongrass towards German cockroaches as well. You can place lemongrass around the vicinity of your house or spray lemongrass oil at surfaces that are prone to cockroaches.
How to Maximise The Effects
- Avoid contact with water.
- Buy from a reputable source.
- Use/Re-apply according to product instructions.
- Avoid overusing the product.
- Look for an EPA-registered product to ensure its effectiveness.
Safe Handling of Insect Repellents
- Do not apply near eyes and mouth.
- Do not apply on cut, wounded or irritated skin.
- Avoid using near foods.
- Do not use around lit flames if the product is flammable.
- Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
