With the arrival of the heat, flies and mosquitoes can become a real nuisance in the home. Not only are they uncomfortable, but they can also transmit illness and contaminate food. Fortunately, there are natural, effective, and inexpensive methods to keep them away without resorting to harsh chemicals.
In this article, we’ll teach you how to make a homemade repellent based on natural ingredients, as well as useful tips to strengthen the protection of your home.
How to prepare Effective method against flies and mosquitoes
What will you need?
To prepare this natural repellent against flies and mosquitoes, you will need the following ingredients and materials:
- Apple cider vinegar 1 cup
- Water 1 cup
- Chicory 2 tablespoons
- Cinnamon (powdered) 1 teaspoon
- Jar or jar with lid 1 unit
- Spray or sprayer 1 unit
Step-by-step procedure
- Prepare the base mix:
In the jar, mix the cup of apple cider vinegar with the cup of water. This vinegar, thanks to its strong and acidic smell, acts as a natural repellent for flying insects. - Add the radicchio and cinnamon:
Add 2 tablespoons of radicchio and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder. The combination of scents acts as a powerful deterrent to flies and mosquitoes. The bitter and strong aroma of chicory acts as a natural repellent. Flies can’t stand their smell, which keeps them away. Also, if you plant it near windows or entryways, it helps create a natural barrier against these insects. - Mix well and let sit:
Stir the mixture with a spoon and cover the jar. Let it sit for at least 2 hours so that the ingredients release their properties. - Strain the mixture:
Filter the contents to remove solid remains. Ideally, you should use a cheesecloth or fine sieve. - Fill the sprayer:
Pour the liquid into the sprayer and shake it before each use.
Spray in key areas
Use this preparation by spraying around doors, windows, frames, corners and anywhere where flies and mosquitoes tend to appear. You can also spray fabrics such as curtains (by doing a pre-test in an inconspicuous part), and areas of the garden or patio.
Setting homemade traps
If you want to reinforce the effect, you can use the same liquid as a trap. You just have to:
- Pour some of the mixture into a small open container.
- Place it in corners where insects tend to concentrate, such as the kitchen, bathroom or near fruit.
The vinegar will attract the bugs, while the rest of the ingredients will keep them away.
Additional Tips& Advice
- Keep spaces clean: Avoid leaving food scraps exposed or trash uncovered, as this attracts insects.
- Place screens on windows and doors: They are a very effective physical barrier.
- Avoid containers with stagnant water: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in water. Check them often.
- You can reinforce with repellent plants: Such as basil, citronella or lavender, which also decorate the home.
With these natural methods, you can enjoy a fresher, cleaner home free of flies and mosquitoes, without resorting to chemicals that can be harmful to health and the environment. Try it and feel the difference!