Why These Ingredients Work:
White Wine Vinegar: Vinegar is well-known for its antibacterial properties. It helps prevent the growth of bacteria and germs, and its strong scent is highly unpleasant for insects. Most pests find the pungent odor overwhelming, and it drives them away.
Cinnamon: Insects, especially ants and cockroaches, are repelled by the strong smell of cinnamon. This natural spice has a powerful effect on pests and, when combined with vinegar, enhances the repellent qualities of the mixture.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is a versatile ingredient that helps to balance the acidity of the vinegar and further contributes to the overall effectiveness of the solution.
Liquid Floor Detergent: This detergent acts as a mild surfactant, helping the mixture adhere to surfaces and giving it better coverage. It also makes the mixture easier to spray.
How to Make and Use the Insecticide
To prepare the insect repellent, follow these simple steps:
Combine the Ingredients: Take an empty, clean spray bottle and pour in the white wine vinegar and floor detergent. Add the cinnamon sticks and baking soda to the bottle.
Shake Well: Secure the nozzle and shake the bottle vigorously. This helps mix all the ingredients together and allows the cinnamon sticks to infuse the vinegar with their potent scent.
Let It Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for at least 24 hours. This will give the cinnamon time to infuse the liquid with its full strength, making the repellent even more effective.
Spray Your Home: Once the mixture has had time to rest, it’s ready to use. Spray it liberally around your home—especially in areas where pests tend to gather, such as in the corners of rooms, on windowsills, along baseboards, and around doors. Don’t forget to spray your plants too if you have a problem with aphids or mealybugs. The scent will repel insects and prevent them from entering or nesting in your home.
Long-Lasting Results
Since I started using this natural insecticide, I’ve noticed a dramatic reduction in the number of cockroaches, ants, and mosquitoes in my home. The best part is that it continues to work for several days, keeping pests at bay without the need for frequent reapplications.