Get Rid Of ... and more

It seems like we always want to “get rid of” something, whether it’s extra weight, weeds in the garden, stains on our clothes, or stress. There are always things to eliminate from our lives to make it better.

How to get rid of gnats may be a top priority, depending on where you live. While these insects are not disease-carriers, they are aggravating. In the house, you can make up some traps and sprays to eliminate gnats. Pouring ammonia down the drains will take care of gnats that congregate there. Outside, remove areas of standing water and extra plant debris where gnats like to hide. Diatomaceous earth, vanilla, and citronella and lemon oils will all deter gnats, as well.

No one wants to discover a mouse in the house, much less in the yard. For home remedies for mice and to keep them away, seal all cracks and holes around the home or add pieces of steel wool in gaps as a deterrent. Removing food sources is important for mice control, too.

Ants are not only annoying outside but can cause a real problem indoors. Left untreated, you can quickly have an infestation that is challenging to handle. Prevention is the best solution, but natural remedies for ants and getting rid of ants you already have are necessary, too. Take care of these unwelcome insects with traps, sprays, frequent mopping, vinegar, chalk, flour, citrus, and essential oils.

Having a fly land on your lunch is not just unwelcome but unsanitary. Flies carry all kinds of diseases that you don’t want. Keep flies away with flypaper, traps, diatomaceous earth and citrus sprays, and essential oils like lemongrass and clove. Outside, plant rosemary and mint to encourage flies to go elsewhere.