Repel Ants & Spiders with All Natural Remedies
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- photos: diyforever
Ants are annoying and spiders are…EEK! Doubt many of us want these guys around.
One may think that keeping pests at bay in an RV is easier than in a large house. However, pest control in an RV has its challenges. Although the slide outs are meant to be sealed, it is possible for those pesky things to find their way inside. Those annoying sugar ants on your counter can drive you nuts.
We try to stay away from some chemicals / pesticides when at all possible. Using “bug spray” in your RV may be necessary, but it’s a tough thing to sit in such a small space with that chemical smell lingering, even with all the windows open. So, all natural remedies can be worthwhile to try.
We have had great success using apple cider vinegar and white distilled vinegar to keep some pests away. We have used a mixture of water and white distilled vinegar for a great counter top spray cleanser. The apple cider vinegar and water mixture does help to deter fleas, but you need to spray your pet’s fur right before your outdoor walk.
Here are some DIY all natural pest repellents we found on the sites, diyforever and natural living ideas. We’ll try some out this summer. See what you think…
ANTS!
1) Create Aversions!
Cucumber, Mint, Cayenne Pepper, Citrus Oil, Lemon Juice, Cinnamon, Coffee Grounds
Place cucumber slices or peels where those little ants are coming in. Put mint tea bags in the line of entry. You can soak a string or fabric in citrus oil to be placed by the ant line as well.
2) Create Light and a Moat!
Place a flashlight at night shining where the ants are coming in. The light can disrupt their foraging pattern. Use soapy water to clean your pet’s feeding area to discourage more ants in that area. If you prefer to leave your pet’s bowl out with food in it, then place their bowl in a shallow container of soapy water.
3) Wash Away Their Trail!
Use 1/4 cup vinegar, 2 cups water and 10-15 drops of peppermint, clove, eucalyptus or melaleuca essential oil mixture to wash the area where the ant’s trail is.
Spiders!
Spiders Hate: Peppermint, Coconut Oil and White Vinegar, Citrus Oils (Lemon, Lime, Tangerine, Wild Orange), Cedar, Chestnuts, Tobacco
Grab a spray bottle and fill with peppermint essential oil and soapy water. Spray this mixture where you see cobwebs and around doors and windows. Create another spray mixture of coconut oil and white vinegar to use around same places. Spraying vinegar alone into crevices is helpful too. Use citrus oils or rub citrus peels around door and window openings, as spiders do not like to walk on and thus taste citrus (spiders taste through their feet). Lemon scented furniture polish can deter spiders too.
Use cedar blocks or cedar hangers in your closet. Place chestnuts along your windows. Place small pieces of tobacco near your windows.
Keep it Clean!
Regular vacuuming, dusting, and removing any spider webs can prevent spiders from making a home in your RV. Keep leaves away from your door steps and windows so spiders won’t have place to hang out.
To read both articles on natural insect remedies go to:
http://www.naturallivingideas.com
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