What is a good natural/homemade insect repellant to put around the house so ants and stuff can't get in?

Answer 1

Boric acid powder is effective on more than just Roaches, but still should be used with caution in areas where pets and children, food prep/serving items are stored and used, and is subject to moisture.

The best test is trial and error otherwise, and the WWW will allow you dozens of "Helpful Hanna" tips.

It also helps that you allow "THEM" no real reason to access your house, such as FOOD items,,, but certainly many just come in to get out of the cold/heat, and or search for anything cellulose based.

Answer 2

There are no good safe home made home remedies for insects. By the time you try everything you hear about, the insect season will be over so, go buy some "Taro" for the ants, get "Raid" for the flying insects, use commercial roach killer for roaches. Use "Deet" on your clothing when going outside.

I've worked in a lab off and on and, for the County for years after retiring. I've read about all there is on insect control, there is nothing out there, really, that's really any good.
Most of it is urban legends or what "granny used", and it's usually no good. If you want something good, take my suggestions.

Answer 3

dish soap.

put dish soap like Dawn into a spray container and spray all around. Also if you have outdoor pets, put straight dish soap on your finger and go around the bottom of the bowl, won't hurt the animals and keeps ants out of the bowl.

Answer 4

My mother puts small open containers of turmeric around the kitchen to keep ants away. I believe they have to be changed every month.

Answer 5

You might try orange oil. This is an organic oil. I buy mine at the garden store, but I think you can make it. I do not know how to make the oil from oranges.