Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Insect Control: Using Detergent and Sugar to Keep Pests at Bay

Introducing a dynamic duo that's more than just a sweet treat: the sugar and detergent mix. This powerful combination is a force to be reckoned with, not just in the kitchen but also in the battle against pests. Say goodbye to annoying cockroaches and mosquitoes as this mix works its magic, leaving your home pest-free and sparkling clean. But that's not all - there's more to this dynamic duo than meets the eye. Discover the hidden talents of this sweet-smelling duo as they go beyond pest control, offering a range of benefits that will leave you impressed.

Administrator

15 July, 2024

Sugar and detergent are household staples, but a 50-50 mixture of sugar and detergent with water has some surprising uses.

The mixture of sugar and detergent not only repels insects but also has many other surprising uses. Photo: ixigua.com

Mosquito Repellent

Prepare a plastic bottle by cutting off the top and pouring in the sugar-detergent mixture diluted with water. Place these bottles in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent, such as corners of the house, beds, or under the kitchen sink.

The sweet scent of sugar will attract mosquitoes, and the alkaline substance in the detergent will effectively kill them upon ingestion. Place these bottles next to indoor potted plants, as they are also mosquito hotspots. However, if you have young children or pets at home, avoid using this method as they may come into contact with the solution.

As an alternative, mix a teaspoon of detergent with four liters of water and spray it inside your home twice a week to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Remember to replace the solution periodically, as the detergent may evaporate and lose its effectiveness when exposed to outdoor conditions.

Cockroach Repellent

In addition to repelling mosquitoes, the sugar and detergent mixture is also effective against cockroaches.

Spray the solution into crevices and cracks, or use a cloth to wipe it in areas where cockroaches are known to crawl. Cockroaches breathe through a system of tubes on their skin, and the alkaline substance in the detergent can block these tubes, leading to their demise.

For homes with mesh screens installed on windows or balcony doors to prevent insect intrusion, you can directly spray the solution onto these screens for added protection.

Odor Neutralizer for Drains

Due to its pleasant scent and powerful cleaning properties, detergent can be used to neutralize unpleasant odors, especially in drain pipes. Pour the sugar-detergent mixture down the drain to eliminate any foul smells.

However, this method is only suitable for indoor drain pipes.

Stain Remover for Yellowed Clothes and Towels

The sugar and detergent mixture can serve as a substitute for bleach and is particularly effective for yellowed clothes and towels.

Soak stained items in the mixture for 1-2 hours, then rinse them with water, and the yellow stains will disappear. For greasy and dirty kitchen towels and rags, a quick soak in the solution for 5-10 minutes followed by a rinse in clean water will do the trick.

By Trang Vy (Adapted from 163.com)

Frequently asked questions

Mix a solution of detergent and sugar with water and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture directly onto insects, their hiding places, and entry points. The sugar attracts the insects, while the detergent acts as a poison and sticky trap.

This method is effective because it utilizes the attraction of sugar to lure insects, while the detergent acts as a poison. The mixture also creates a sticky trap, making it difficult for insects to escape. This natural, inexpensive, and easy-to-make solution is a great alternative to chemical pesticides.

This method is particularly effective for controlling ants, cockroaches, flies, and mosquitoes. It can also be used to deter other pests such as spiders, bed bugs, and fleas.

For best results, apply the mixture regularly, especially after rain or when you notice insect activity increasing. Reapply the solution every few weeks to maintain its effectiveness and refresh the spray as needed.

Always wear gloves and a mask when handling the mixture, and avoid direct contact with your skin and eyes. Keep children and pets away from the treated areas until the solution has dried. Test the solution on a small area first to ensure it does not damage any surfaces.

Yes, you can use any household detergent, whether it is in liquid or powder form. For the sugar, regular table sugar will work just fine. However, avoid using detergent with added softeners or fragrances, as these may reduce the effectiveness of the mixture.