Keep Bugs At Bay: How to use peppermint oil to repel insects!
Summer brings warm weather, sunshine, and unfortunately, an influx of pesky insects. If you're looking for a natural, effective way to keep ants and other insects out of your home, peppermint oil might be your new best friend. This blog post will guide you through the simple steps to use peppermint oil as a bug repellent and why it's a great alternative to chemical-based products.
Why Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint oil is a natural insect repellent with a fresh, invigorating scent. It contains compounds like menthol that insects find highly irritating, making it an effective deterrent. Plus, it’s safe to use around children and pets when used properly, making it an excellent choice for a low-tox home.
How to Use Peppermint Oil for Ants and Other Insects
1. Peppermint Oil Spray
Ingredients:
- 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil
- water
- 1 cap Thieves Cleaner
- 16 oz Spray bottle
Instructions:
1. Fill a spray bottle with peppermint essential oil, Thieves cleaner, and water.
2. Shake the bottle well to mix the ingredients.
Usage:
- Spray the mixture around entry points like doors, windows, and baseboards where ants and other insects are likely to enter.
- Reapply every few days
-Since this spray is also my all-purpose cleaner mixed with peppermint oil, I just use it to clean as usual and it deters insects while I clean.
2. Peppermint Oil Cotton Balls
Ingredients:
- Peppermint essential oil
- Cotton balls
Instructions:
1. Put a few drops of peppermint essential oil on each cotton ball.
2. Place the cotton balls in areas where you’ve seen ants or other insects, such as kitchen counters, under sinks, or near garbage bins.
Usage:
- Replace the cotton balls every 1-2 weeks or when the scent starts to fade.
3. Peppermint Oil Diffuser
Ingredients:
- Peppermint essential oil
- Essential oil diffuser
Instructions:
1. Add water to your essential oil diffuser according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Add 5-10 drops of peppermint essential oil to the diffuser.
Usage:
- Run the diffuser in rooms where you want to repel insects. This method is especially useful for larger areas and also leaves your home smelling fresh and clean.
Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
- Consistency: Regular application is key to keeping insects at bay. Reapply sprays and replace cotton balls as needed.
- Cleanliness: Keep your home clean and free of crumbs or spills that attract ants and other pests.
- Combination: Combine peppermint oil with other essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, or citronella for a more potent repellent.
Here’s a list of creepy crawlies & what they don’t like:
• Ants - Peppermint
• Aphids - Peppermint, Sandalwood, Grand Fir
• Beetles - Peppermint, Thyme
• Caterpillars - Peppermint
• Chiggers - Lavender, Lemongrass, Thyme
• Cutworms - Thyme
• Fleas - Lavender, Lemongrass, Peppermint, Pine
• Flies - Basil, Clove, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Thyme
• Gnats - Peppermint, Lavender, Patchouli
• Mosquitoes - Lavender, Lemongrass, Geranium
• Moths - Lavender, Peppermint
• Plant Lice - Peppermint, Tea Tree, Thieves
• Slugs - Grand Fir, Lavender, Pine
• Snails - Patchouli, Grand Fir, Peppermint, Pine
• Spiders - Peppermint
• Weevils - Patchouli, Sandalwood, Cedarwood
Precautions
- Test First: Always test a small area before using peppermint oil on surfaces to ensure it doesn’t cause damage or discoloration.
- Proper Dilution: Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin or surfaces.
- Pet Safety: While peppermint oil is generally safe around pets, use it sparingly and ensure they do not ingest it.
Have you tried using peppermint oil as a bug repellent? Share your experiences in the comments below!
XO,
Sarah