How to get rid of common household pests naturally!

Zee Media Bureau/Salome Phelamei

Nobody likes to live in a house which is host to common pests such as as cockroaches, fleas, termites, ants, mice, etc.

These creepy crawlies not only give you nightmares when they bump into you at night, but can cause various health problems, including cancers.

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent, discourage and treat common household pests naturally. Try these simple tips below:

Houseflies

Get a clear plastic bag filled with water and hang this bag at your outdoor entrances. This is one of the simplest and effective ways to get rid of pesky flies.

Ants

While there are natural ant repellants, lemon juice, peppermint, garlic or cinnamon are some simple remedies to keep ants from invading your home. Leave any of the said items near areas where ants seem most active.

Cockroaches

A common problem for most households. The best way to get rid of cockroaches is keeping your house clean. Vacuum regularly and block the spots where they get inside. Use bay leaves, garlic and cucumber slices in the affected areas to deter cockroaches.

Rats and mice

Peppermint oil is considered safe both for humans and animals. Put a few drops of peppermint oil on some cotton balls and leave them in the areas where the mice are living.

Also, use 'catch and release' trap that will capture mice but won't harm the animals.

Seal up holes and areas in the house that can allow mice to come in. Store food and garbage properly in sealed containers while keeping your home, especially kitchen crumb free and clean.

Bed bugs

Wash all bedding in hot water to kill bed bugs in your sheets and pillows. The best way to prevent bed bugs is to apply non-toxic diatomaceous earth near bed bug activity.

Also, if there is a bed bug infestation, a thorough cleaning and vacuuming of the room should be done.