How to Use Garlic to Get Rid of Pests: Mice, Flies, Lice, Cockroaches, Lizards, and Mosquitoes
Garlic is not only a kitchen staple but also a powerful natural remedy for pest control. Its strong aroma and sulfur compounds are highly effective in repelling various pests. Here’s how you can use garlic to create a pest-free environment:
1. Garlic Spray for Mosquitoes and Cockroaches
Why It Works:
Garlic’s pungent smell deters mosquitoes and cockroaches. The sulfur compounds in garlic irritate these pests, making your home less inviting.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 1 liter of water
- A few drops of liquid soap
Instructions:
- Crush or finely chop the garlic cloves and mix them with water.
- Let the mixture sit for 24 hours.
- Strain the garlic out and add liquid soap.
- Pour into a spray bottle and apply around windows, doorways, and cracks.
Benefits:
This spray is a safe alternative to chemical insecticides, suitable for homes with pets and children.
2. Garlic Powder for Mice
Why It Works:
Mice are sensitive to strong odors, and garlic’s smell disrupts their navigation.
Ingredients:
- Garlic powder or crushed garlic cloves
Instructions:
- Sprinkle garlic powder or place crushed garlic in areas frequented by mice.
- Focus on entry points, food storage areas, and home perimeters.
Benefits:
Garlic powder is a cost-effective and pet-safe solution to deter mice.
3. Garlic Pouches for Wardrobes
Why It Works:
Garlic repels moths and pests in closets by confusing their sense of smell.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- Small cloth pouches
Instructions:
- Lightly crush garlic cloves and place them in pouches.
- Hang pouches in wardrobes or place in drawers.
Benefits:
Garlic pouches are a non-toxic way to protect fabrics from pests.
4. Garlic Pieces for Lizard Entries
Why It Works:
Lizards dislike garlic’s strong smell, preventing them from entering your home.
Ingredients:
- Whole or crushed garlic cloves
Instructions:
- Place garlic near windows, doors, and other entry points.
- Optionally, hang bunches of garlic in doorways or windows.
Benefits:
This chemical-free method keeps lizards away without harming them or the environment.
5. Garlic for Flies and Lice
For Flies:
- Ingredients: Crushed garlic, water, mesh bag
- Instructions: Place crushed garlic in a mesh bag and hang it in fly-prone areas like kitchens and trash bins.
For Lice:
- Ingredients: Garlic oil or crushed garlic
- Instructions: Mix garlic oil with shampoo or apply garlic paste to the scalp, leave for 10-15 minutes, then rinse.
Benefits:
Garlic’s natural odor keeps flies and lice at bay, making it a safe solution for families.
Additional Benefits of Using Garlic for Pest Control
- Ecological: Garlic is eco-friendly, not harming the environment or beneficial insects.
- Economical: It’s affordable and widely available.
- Effective: Garlic effectively repels a variety of pests without harsh chemicals.
Garlic is a versatile and natural pest control solution, ensuring a safer home for your family and pets while protecting the environment.