As monsoon rains transform the landscape into a lush, green environment, they also create conditions that can turn your home into a breeding ground for pests. The increased humidity and stagnant water provide ideal conditions for insects and rodents to thrive. From ants invading your kitchen to mosquitoes buzzing in your bedroom, these pests can cause major disruptions and health risks.During the rainy season, certain pests become more common. Mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water, are well-known for spreading diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, and chikungunya. Cockroaches, thriving in damp conditions, can trigger allergies and asthma. Termites, drawn to moisture in wooden structures, can inflict severe damage on your home.
Ants, in search of food and water, can invade various areas, leading to contamination and annoyance. Rodents, seeking refuge from the rain, can chew through wires and spread diseases like leptospirosis and hantavirus. Identifying their sources and addressing these pests promptly is crucial for maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment.
The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that stagnant water, found in clogged gutters, pots, and old tires, serves as a primary breeding site for mosquitoes. The high humidity and warmth of the monsoon season also facilitate the growth of cockroaches and other pests. Moisture in wooden structures can encourage termite activity, while food scraps and waste attract ants and rodents. To keep pests at bay, you might consider either professional pest control services or home remedies.
Professional services for pest control
For more persistent pest problems, professional pest control services offer comprehensive solutions. They are crucial for preventing disease outbreaks and protecting your home from infestations and potential structural damage. Regular treatments help maintain a safe and healthy environment. Gaurav Arora, Director of Insect Killer Services Pvt. Ltd., Jaipur, recommends opting for services that use WHO-approved chemicals for safety and environmental protection. He suggests choosing green-certified, non-toxic products, such as odourless chemicals for indoor areas and approved paste for cockroaches. Ensure that the service provider is licensed, a member of the Indian Pest Control Association (IPCA,and certified by Bayer Envue. Prioritise safety by selecting authorised, government-approved services.
Home remedies for pest control
Create a simple fly trap by filling an empty soda bottle with sweetened water—using sugar, syrup, honey, or overripe fruit works well. Add a few drops of vinegar to keep bees away. Flies will be attracted to the sweet liquid, but once their wings get wet, they won’t be able to escape. For fruit flies, use apple cider vinegar. Pour a bit into a bowl or glass, cover it with plastic wrap, and poke holes in the wrap. The flies will enter through the holes but won’t be able to exit.
Essential oils can be a powerful pest deterrent. Fill a spray bottle with water and add about five to ten drops of the following oils based on the type of pest:
- Roaches: Tea tree or eucalyptus
- Ants: Spearmint, peppermint, or lemon
- Flies: Rosemary, peppermint, eucalyptus, or basil
- Mosquitoes: Peppermint, lemongrass, or tea tree
- Spiders: Spearmint or peppermint
- Fleas: Lavender, lemongrass, or peppermint
Spray the affected areas or soak cotton balls in the mixture and place them where pests are seen.
Herbs can both enhance your meals and deter pests. For outdoor gatherings, add sprigs of rosemary or sage to your barbecue or fire pit to keep insects, especially mosquitoes, away. Indoors, a small basil plant can help drive away flies.
After brewing your coffee, sprinkle used coffee grounds around the exterior of your home where pests might enter. Coffee grounds can repel various insects, particularly ants.
While citronella candles are commonly used outdoors to repel mosquitoes, you can also use citronella-scented sachets indoors to keep moths and roaches at bay.
Banana peels aren’t just for comedic effect—they can help manage garden pests. Place a banana peel in the soil near the stems of affected plants. The decomposing peel will deter pests like aphids and act as a fertiliser.
White vinegar is a versatile pantry staple. Use it to eliminate ant trails by mixing two cups of water with a quarter cup of white vinegar and a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil. Clean the areas where ants have been seen to drive them away.