To try this at home, you’ll need just a few ingredients: a spoonful of mint toothpaste, a spoonful of baking soda, a spoonful of white vinegar, half a cup of lukewarm water, and a few drops of peppermint essential oil if you have it on hand. Mix the toothpaste and baking soda until smooth, then slowly add the vinegar to create a gentle fizz. Stir in the water to reach a pourable consistency and, if using, add a few drops of peppermint oil for extra strength.
Pour the mixture into small, shallow containers such as jar lids or bottle caps. Place them near areas where pests are most likely to enter or gather: behind trash bins, near sinks or drains, along baseboards, close to doorways and windows, or in corners where mosquitoes tend to linger. You can also dip a cotton swab into the mixture and lightly apply it along window frames or door thresholds to create a faint scent barrier.
Unlike chemical sprays, you won’t see an immediate effect. Instead, the smell and environment slowly discourage insects from hanging around. Within a short time, you may notice fewer flies circling your food, fewer mosquitoes near sleeping areas, and roaches avoiding treated spots. The pleasant minty aroma will also leave your home smelling clean and fresh.
To keep the effect strong, refresh the mixture every two to three days, especially during warm months when bugs are more active. Pair this remedy with good cleaning habits for best results—wipe down counters, store food securely, and take out the trash regularly. A clean home with fewer food sources makes any natural repellent far more effective.
This method is safe and easy to use, but take a few precautions. Keep the mixture out of reach of small children and pets. Essential oils can be irritating or harmful to animals, so skip the peppermint oil if you have pets and stick to the basic ingredients. Test a small surface first if you’re unsure about placing the mixture on delicate materials.
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. With a few everyday ingredients and a few minutes of preparation, you can freshen your home and help keep pests away—without relying on harsh chemicals or costly treatments. This easy remedy offers a natural way to enjoy a cleaner, more peaceful living space where flies, mosquitoes, and roaches feel far less welcome.