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How to Use Peppermint Oil for Pest Control
How to Use Peppermint Oil for Pest Control. Peppermint has a strong smell that many pests find irritating. The oil from this plant can be used to deter both insect and animal pests from the home. Many people enjoy the scent and have used peppermint oil to not only keep nuisances such as mice, roaches, flies and fleas out of their home, they have...
Peppermint has a strong smell that many pests find irritating. The oil from this plant can be used to deter both insect and animal pests from the home. Many people enjoy the scent and have used peppermint oil to not only keep nuisances such as mice, roaches, flies and fleas out of their home, they have eradicated infestations for good.
Peppermint oil is safe to use in homes with children and pets. It is easy to find in grocery stores, in the baking aisle near other flavorings. The scent is strong, compared to other deterrents, peppermint is far more economical.
Things You'll Need
Peppermint oil
Warm water
Spray bottle
Cotton balls
Step 1
Fill the empty spray bottle with warm water. Leave a 2-inch space between the water line and the rim. Pour 1 tbsp. of pure peppermint oil into the warm water. Replace the spray nozzle tightly, then shake vigorously. This ensures the oil is distributed well.
Step 2
Find areas where pests have been entering the home. Spray the peppermint oil and water mix into these areas until saturated. Windowsills and doorways should receive a light film.
Step 3
Move to the exterior of the home. Mist screens for the first floor and the basement, if applicable. Spray the visible section of the foundation and into any cracks. Cover bushes and flowers with a light mist to protect them, as well.
Step 4
Follow these steps once a month during the spring and summer months to repel any pests. Reapply after rain as peppermint oil is not waterproof. Those in warmer climates will need to reapply year round.
Step 1
Soak cotton balls in the peppermint oil. To fill many openings, place 10 cotton balls into a small container, then pour the oil over. Allow them to sit until all of the oil is absorbed. If there are dry spots, add more oil.
Step 2
Locate any small holes and cracks that vermin can enter. Stuff the oil-moistened cotton balls into the holes. Check to ensure the cracks and holes are blocked completely.
Step 3
Place leftover cotton balls into the bottom of indoor and outdoor trash cans to keep pests at bay. Replace these every time the can(s) are emptied.
Step 4
Check the cotton balls once a month. If the cotton that is reachable is at all dry, use a dropper to apply more oil. The cotton ball itself will not need to be replaced unless the originals shrink or deteriorate.
