by Anonymouse

Created on: July 15, 2008   Last Updated: February 17, 2009

The effects of pest control chemicals should not be taken lightly; they can cause problems like cancer, infertility, and even birth defects. Children are most susceptible because of their weaker immune systems. In fact, according to the Pesticide Action Network of North America, "the average 6 to11 year-old sampled is exposed to the OP pesticide chlorpyrifos at four times the level U.S. Environmental Protection Agency considers acceptable' for long-term exposure." Fortunately, non-toxic varieties of pest control can lessen this serious health issue. The first is prevention.

Cleanliness is key. Keep crumbs swept, counters clean, and don't leave dirty dishes soaking overnight. If at all possible, use the garbage disposal for wasted foods instead of the trash can. Stored food should be sealed tightly. Vacuum at least once a week, and wash bedding just as often in hot water. Of course, cleanliness won't completely eradicate pests, but it's certainly a start! Now, what about individual pest problems?

Ants are one of the most aggravating and prevalent pests. Though they may do well to feast on other pests like termites and fleas in a home, an extended stay is usually not appreciated. Sometimes they get comfortable anyways, helping themselves to food and beverages like the average unwelcome guest. That's when three phenomenal ant-deterring agents come in handy: dry crushed mint, cucumbers, and garlic. In addition, it may be helpful to know that ants refuse to cross a strip of coffee grounds, cayenne, or cinnamon set at their point of entry.

Like ants, cockroaches are deterred by mint, garlic, and cucumbers. Nonetheless, they are an entirely different evil. Even the "splat" of a cockroach is much messier than an ant's! Hedge apples kept in one's home will keep roaches outside in the first place. Since they prefer high places, the fruit should be placed accordingly. To keep them at bay, a chemical called nepetalactone in catnip also works wonders. Simply boil catnip and pour the concoction into a spray bottle. This fantastic roach-riddance spray is completely safe around people and pets. For any cockroaches that are braving the kitchen floor, soap and water sprayed on the insects directly will be fatal to them.

Fleas aren't fans of soapy water, either. Pets should be bathed and combed often, and any fleas found stuck in a comb should be dunked. These pests need to be taken care of quickly since they can be quite troublesome. Begin by adding apple cider vinegar to a flea-infested pet's food. Sometimes this doesn't work for picky eaters, but not to worry; there is an even better solution. Mix boiling water with lemon juice and rind, and let it sit overnight. Use it for a pet bath in the morning and the fleas will be history. Then vacuum, especially under furniture, and dispose of the bag immediately. Goodbye pests, and good riddance, toxic chemicals.

Works Cited:

Pesticide Action Network of North America; panna.org/docsTrespass/chemicalTrespass2004.dv.html; July 14th, 2008

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