Put this in your house and you will never see flies, mosquitoes or cockroaches again

Insects such as flies and cockroaches have a way of sneaking into kitchens, turning a calm and orderly space into a source of stress and frustration. Not only are these pests annoying, but they can also carry bacteria that compromise food safety and hygiene. Many households turn immediately to chemical sprays and traps, but these often contain harsh ingredients and leave behind unpleasant odors. Fortunately, there are simpler, safer, and low-cost alternatives. One surprisingly effective option is a homemade repellent crafted from everyday items like toothpaste, baking soda, and vinegar.

This natural repellent works because of a combination of scent and chemistry. The minty freshness of toothpaste and peppermint oil is pleasant to humans but highly irritating to many insects, including roaches and flies. Insects rely on scent trails and chemical cues to navigate, and strong minty aromas can disrupt their patterns. Adding baking soda and vinegar brings a secondary benefit: when the two are combined, they create a fizzy reaction that helps spread the scent while releasing carbon dioxide, a combination that makes the treated areas less welcoming to pests. The result is a mix that is both functional and refreshingly aromatic.

Preparing this repellent requires only a few steps. In a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of mint toothpaste, one tablespoon of baking soda, and one tablespoon of white vinegar. As the ingredients react, stir them together until they blend into a smooth solution. Then, add about half a cup (120 ml) of lukewarm water to thin the mixture. For an extra punch, consider adding 5–10 drops of peppermint essential oil. This optional step intensifies the minty aroma, but it should be skipped if you have pets, since concentrated essential oils can be irritating to animals.

Once mixed, pour the solution into shallow containers such as jar lids, bottle caps, or small saucers. These can be discreetly placed in areas where insects are most likely to gather—near sinks, behind trash bins, next to doorways, or under cabinets. For tighter spaces, a cotton swab dipped in the solution can be used to apply a thin layer along baseboards, behind appliances, or near cracks where pests may enter. Many people notice a reduction in insect activity within the first hour, and the bonus is that the kitchen smells cleaner and fresher thanks to the minty aroma.

To maintain effectiveness, the mixture should be refreshed every two to three days, as both the scent and fizzing action fade over time. During warmer months, when open windows and doors increase the chances of pests wandering indoors, placing containers near entry points can be especially helpful. Still, it’s important to remember that repellents work best when combined with good housekeeping practices. Regularly wiping down counters, sealing leftover food, and emptying trash bins are the most reliable ways to discourage insects from settling in.

Safety should always be a priority. While the ingredients are generally harmless in small amounts, the mixture should be kept away from young children and pets. If you decide to use peppermint essential oil, do so cautiously, and avoid applying the solution directly to delicate surfaces without testing first, since toothpaste and baking soda can sometimes be mildly abrasive. For severe or recurring infestations, this homemade remedy can serve as a helpful first step, but it should be paired with deeper cleaning strategies or, if necessary, professional pest control services.

In short, this DIY repellent is a quick, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly way to make your home less attractive to flies and roaches. By combining household staples with the natural power of mint, you create not just a bug deterrent but also a refreshing ritual that enhances the atmosphere of your kitchen. Small steps like this can make a big difference, helping you reclaim your space from unwelcome intruders.