Safer Methods: Using Organic Pest Control for Roaches and Mites

It’s safe to say that most of us would like to believe we’re living in our homes alone and without the specter of critters like cockroaches or dust mites.  Unfortunately, that is almost never the case.  Even so, no one wants to be putting toxic chemicals all over the house or in places where children can get to them.  This gives the idea of using a method or organic pest control for these critters better standing.  Yes, in fact, it’s possible to use organic methods to rid your house of these unwanted pests.

For cockroaches, you’ll begin your organic pest control by carefully cleaning your house, including the bathroom and the kitchen.  Vacuum the carpeting well and dispose of the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag.  Wash target areas very well with a strong soap and water.

One of the tricks of organic pest control is knowing that roaches are fond of high places.  You’ll want to use boric acid (Borax) and put it above the kitchen cabinets if there is a space between the cabinets and the ceiling.  If not, put it as high as you can.  Roaches will take the boric acid (non-toxic to humans unless eaten, by the way) and will take it back to their nests, killing scores of the little beasts.  Keep the boric acid away from pets and small children. 

Another trick of organic pest control for cockroaches is the fact that catnip acts as a natural repellent to the insects. Catnip contains nepetalactone, a chemical that is non-toxic to human beings.  It will keep the cockroaches away from any area you leave it around.  Don’t let your cats get into it, however!

A completely safe and organic way to kill roaches is using a spray bottle of soapy water on them whenever you see them.  They don’t like it and it kills them cold.  Another method of organic cockroach control is to put a couple of slices of bread into a coffee can and soak the bread with beer.  Put the can around where you have a lot of roaches.  Also use bay leaves, cucumber slices or garlic in high-risk areas, which are excellent deterrents. 

A hedge apple, placed one in each room will deter roaches for up to two months. Dust mites, while microscopic, are truly everywhere in your living quarters.  Many people are allergic to dust mites. Fortunately, there are organic pest control measures you can take.  Begin by dusting everything and by vacuuming the mattresses and pillows.  You can buy special dust mite bedding that has zippers and allergen-blocking encasings.

Continue your organic pest control by washing the bedding in very hot water.  Unfortunately, detergents alone don’t make a difference unless the water temperature is as high as you can get it (at least 55 degrees Celsius).  If you have an allergy sufferer in your home, keep out stuffed animals, throw rugs and laundry hampers out of the bedroom area.   Bookshelves with lots of books aren’t a good idea either. 

Another organic pest control trick is to neutralize the allergic component of the bugs with tannic acid.  It works for animal dander, too.  They make tannic acid powder and you can find them at pet stores and health food places.  Sprinkle it over problem areas.  You can also cover mattresses and/or pillows with covers that are laminated to prevent the penetration of dust mites.  Avoid humidifiers, which attract dust mites.

You may not be able to totally rid your house of dust mites and cockroaches but you can have a clean home that is as allergy-free as possible all with organic pest prevention.

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