How to Do Pest Control in the Kitchen
Kitchens can be a major place where insects hide. Pest control in the kitchen should include prevention strategies. Use natural herbs and plants to deter insects. Be proactive. Place insect repellents in areas where pests are known to be hang out. Seal all entryways such as cracks. Be cautious about bringing new items into your kitchen. Check them outside first. Keep kitchens clean and organized with proper storage of food.
- Keep your kitchen neat, clean and organized. Prevention of pest infestation is the best strategy.
- Do not bring paper bags or boxes into the home. If you must, empty them and shake out thoroughly. This is a common way that roaches get inside.
- Seal up cracks, holes or other entryways for bugs. Check areas that may need annual fixes such as bathroom grouting.
- Plant natural flowers and herbs that have an insect repellent smell. Some common ones are mint, basil, and marigolds.
- Use natural herbs in sachets or other cloth sacs. Hang or place these beside windows, doors or place inside kitchen cabinets. Common insect repellents are bay leaves, eucalyptus, garlic and cloves.
- Cook with natural herbs to deter pests. Rosemary and sage are two great mosquito deterrents.
- Soak some cotton balls in real mint oil or leave a mint teabag or two in problem insect prone areas such as countertops. Ants and other insects dislike mint. Follow where your ants are coming in and put some repellant in a row. The insects will stay on the other side.
- Place borax high up on upper cabinets inside plastic containers with holes in the top. This is toxic to pets and humans so use caution. Roaches will climb in and bring the borax back to their nests.
- Catch silverfish in glass containers with a sticky outside surface. Many people use tape or attach stickers. Fill the bowl with soapy water.
- Call in a professional if these simple measures do not work or for major infestation problems.