The simple 50p store cupboard staple to help keep your home pest-free this spring
A GARDENING expert has shared a simple 50p store cupboard staple to help keep your home pest-free.
With spring bringing in warmer weather and longer days, many of us will be spending more time in the garden.
But as well as more barbecuing opportunities, higher temperatures are also the perfect breeding ground for pests like flies and slugs.
Insects like moths, carpet beetles and spiders often sneak indoors causing damage to homes and belongings.
Thankfully, one penny pinching pest expert has come up with a simple solution, that won't break the bank.
Tony King, owner of pest control firm the Pied Piper, has insisted that whilst chemical detergents are effective in deterring creepy crawlies there are other more simple, cost-effective treatments too.
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Natural oils, for example, can be just as efficient.
Spraying peppermint oil on surfaces is "surprisingly potent" and can deter spiders from coming in through the windows.
Cleaning expert and owner of Flooring King, Liam Cleverdon explained: “Chemical-free doesn’t mean ineffective.
"Natural oils like peppermint are surprisingly potent - you can mix 10–15 drops with water and spray around doors, windows, and cracks to deter spiders."
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Other methods include using a combination of household herbs, which cost as little as 50p, to prevent insect entering homes.
These include rosemary, mint, and basil - items you'll likely already have in your pantry.
Liam recommends placing the herbs in small sachets and tucking them into room corners, drawers, or under furniture.
These can provide a "highly budget-friendly solution" to any insect woes.
He added: "Dab a few drops of essential oils onto cotton pads and position them strategically throughout your home."
However, for more severe infestations, the pest experts suggest resorting to harsh chemicals and sprinkling them on carpets.
Liam said: “If you’re not opposed to more lethal methods, boric acid can be an effective last resort.
"Sprinkle it on carpets, leave for a few hours, then vacuum to kill beetles, larvae, and eggs."