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We’ve all been there—a fly buzzing around the fruit bowl, or a cockroach making a run for it under the sink. These pests can turn your home into a battleground fast. But you might already have the solution in your bathroom or kitchen cupboard! With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a powerful natural repellent that really works.
Why Does This Trick Work?
The secret is in the mix: peppermint and toothpaste create a scent that’s overwhelming for pests like flies, mosquitoes, and cockroaches. Add baking soda and white vinegar—which react together—and you get a strong chemical and aromatic barrier that insects can’t stand.
How to Make This Homemade Repellent in 5 Minutes
You’ll need:
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1 tablespoon mint toothpaste
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1 tablespoon baking soda
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1 tablespoon white vinegar
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½ cup (120 ml) lukewarm water
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5–10 drops peppermint essential oil (optional but extra effective)
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Small flat containers (like jar lids or saucers)
Steps:
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In a small bowl, blend toothpaste and baking soda until smooth.
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Slowly add vinegar—don’t worry if it foams, that’s normal!
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Stir in the lukewarm water.
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Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil for a stronger scent.
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Pour the mixture into your small containers.
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Place the containers where pests gather: behind trash cans, near sinks, windows, or in dark corners.
What Happens Next?
You’ll notice the difference almost right away. The minty aroma fills the air, making your home uninviting for flies and mosquitoes, while the baking soda and vinegar combo is especially off-putting to cockroaches. The result? Pests head for the exit—fast.
Extra Tips for Lasting Protection
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Refresh the mixture every 2–3 days to keep the effect strong.
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For targeted spots: Use a cotton swab to apply a thin layer behind appliances or along baseboards.
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In summer: Place a container by doors or open windows for extra protection.
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Family-friendly: This recipe is non-toxic and doesn’t release harsh chemicals, so it’s safe for everyone at home.
Sometimes the simplest tricks from your own cupboard really are the most effective—just like that, a more peaceful, pest-free home is within reach.
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