Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil is a natural repellent for cockroaches due to its strong scent. Mix the oil with water and spray it directly on sinks, kitchen corners, bathrooms, or any other places where cockroaches tend to hide. While this method may not work as quickly as chemical pesticides, it is a safe and healthy alternative to get rid of these pests.
Orange and Lemon Peels
Cockroaches detest the scent of citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, even though humans find it refreshing. Place dried peels in areas where these insects are frequently spotted, or make a natural repellent by mixing lemon juice with water and spraying it in their hiding places.
Garlic
Garlic is another effective cockroach repellent. The strong odor of garlic can drive them away. Simply place garlic powder in the paths cockroaches frequent, and they will look for ways to escape your home. Keep in mind that garlic powder can be easily dispersed by wind, so place it in enclosed areas.
Onion
Onions, like garlic, have a strong, pungent smell that cockroaches find irritating. Thinly slice an onion and place it in areas where food is usually present to keep these pests at bay.
Alum
Cockroaches cannot stand the distinctive smell of alum. Mixing alum with warm water and using the solution to mop your floors will drive them away. As the floor dries, the alum water will seep into cracks and crevices, leaving behind a scent that cockroaches detest. With consistent use, you’ll notice a significant reduction in their presence.
Bay Leaves
Bay leaves have a mild fragrance that humans find pleasant, but cockroaches detest. These leaves can be purchased from grocery stores and placed in areas like walls and cracks to deter cockroaches. You can also grind fresh or dried bay leaves into a fine powder for easier application.