3 Kitchen Scraps That Can Help Stop Summer Pests from Invading Your Home
Don't put these useful leftovers in the trash
Kitchen scraps are surprisingly useful. From making compost to brewing stock, they have a lot of life left in them despite the name. Perhaps one of the most practical uses, however, is as a pest deterrent.
As the summer weather starts to peak, pesky bugs are at their most active, seeking suitable shelter to reproduce. Kitchen scraps can make non-toxic deterrents that make areas less attractive to pests, explains Ed Dolshun, Technical Director at Catchmaster. 'They can help with light activity, but if pests keep showing up, there is usually a food source, moisture issue, or entry point that needs to be fixed.'
These are the three scraps worth repurposing for natural pest control and how to use them to deter persistent bugs.
1. Used Coffee Grounds
There are several plants that like coffee grounds, too.
Coffee grounds can help to keep bugs away and smell fantastic while doing so. Given that good-quality, ethical coffee beans can be expensive, this is a great way to further justify the spend while avoiding creating unnecessary trash at home.
As Ed Dolshun explains, 'Used coffee grounds can be particularly helpful outside around patios, trash bins, or garden edges because the strong smell can make those areas less appealing to some crawling insects. The important thing is not to overdo it. If coffee grounds sit too long and stay wet, they can start to break down and attract pests instead. I would use them as a short-term outdoor deterrent and refresh or remove them regularly.'
Collecting your coffee grounds is easiest with the best non-toxic coffee makers. I use the Bialetti Moka Pot, available at Amazon, and the grounds are simple to tap out of the funnel after each use. The Aarke French Press, from Williams Sonoma, also makes it easy. Made entirely from stainless steel, you do not need to worry about either vessel contaminating the grounds with nano or microplastics that might pollute your outdoor environment.
2. Banana Peels
Banana peels also double as fertilizer, making this a two-in-one for saving scraps.
Banana peels are fantastic for plants, acting as free fertilizer without added harsh chemicals. The added benefit to using this kitchen waste in your garden and pots is non-toxic pest control.
Allan Bossel, operations expert at Bed Bug Exterminator, explains, 'Banana peels are one of the underrated kitchen scraps that homeowners can use against summer pests, especially ants and aphids. What makes it effective is isoamyl acetate, which releases a strong scent when broken down.
'Simply chop the peels into small pieces and then bury them around the base of your plants to avoid attracting fruit flies and rotting in the sun. Also, you can create a nutrient boost from these scraps by soaking the chopped peels in a jar of water for two days.'
This airtight storage jar from Walmart is perfect for this, letting the skins soak without accidentally attracting pests with the sweet smell.
3. Leftover Nutmeg and Mace
These handy spices are often left over from fall and winter, making them perfect for use against summer invaders.
There are plenty of spices that deter common garden pests, but for summer, Allan suggests leftover nutmeg and mace, usually found in abundance in pantries and kitchen cabinets after the fall and winter baking seasons. Repurposing them prevents stale spices next season, without them going entirely to waste.
'They contain myristicin, a natural plant compound that seems to deter bugs,' Allan explains. 'Nutmeg can keep termites away and mess up ant scent trails. Simply sprinkle your expired nutmeg powder right along your home's foundation to block bugs. You can even throw it in your pantry bins to ward off grain weevils or simmer it in water to make a quick bug spray for wooden patio furniture.
'However, if you’re a pet owner, keep nutmeg away from your dogs because their bodies can’t metabolize myristicin. It’s toxic for them even in small amounts.'
What Else to Consider
Natural deterrents are a fantastic first defense against an infestation; however, they should not be relied upon entirely. Doing so is one of the most common pest control mistakes.
Ed warns that natural deterrents only work if the basics are handled too. 'Keep food sealed, wipe up spills, take trash out regularly, check for moisture, and seal gaps where pests may be getting in,' he advises.
'If you are still seeing consistent activity after that, then it is usually at the point where monitoring tools or targeted traps make sense. Catchmaster’s window fly traps [from Amazon] are an easy option for kitchens and glass doors where flies tend to collect. For crawling pests, Catchmaster’s glue boards [also from Amazon] can be placed under sinks, along baseboards, in garages, basements or near entry points to help monitor what is actually getting inside. They are pesticide-free and odorless, which is helpful for households that want to avoid indoor sprays.'
What to Shop
Preventing pests requires a multifaceted approach, from the best deterrents to top cleaning tips. These are the essentials to help keep them at bay without harsh chemicals.
All prices correct at the time of publication.
One of the main drawers for pests is crumbs and dirt, so keeping floors clean is essential. Tools like the Swiffer is perfect for quick surface cleaning, helping you to stay on top of mess before it becomes overwhelming.
Peppermint oil can deter mice without harsh chemicals or traps. These plug-ins have been praised by shoppers for keeping rodents at bay in spaces such as garages, delivering a beautifully fresh scent while doubling as a deterrent.
From making your own cleaning solutions to mixing up pest deterrents, these glass spray bottles are perfect for use all around the home, limiting plastic waste.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has certified Attitude products as non-toxic, meaning they contain no harsh chemicals or artificial compounds.
Distilled white vinegar is a fantastic non-toxic cleaning tool for any home. When used correctly, it can help to kill mold and bacteria, as well as tackle odors and lighten stains, all without harsh chemicals.
Microfiber cloths are machine washable, meaning you can reuse them for years with proper care. Simply wash after use on a warm water cycle with gentle detergent (skip the softener) to sanitize.
Meet the Experts
Ed has over 12 years of experience in the pest management industry. Prior to joining AP&G, he served many years as an Environmental and Regulatory Specialist at Bergen County Community Development and also taught an Environmental Issues course at Fairleigh Dickinson University as part of their Masters of Administrative Science Program.
Allan Bossel is the owner and operator of Michigan Bed Bug Specialists. He has over a decade of insect and pest control experience, with a background in professional pest extermination and lab work. In addition to his skill set in operating state-of-the-art pest control machinery, Allan is licensed by the State of Michigan as a commercial pesticide applicator in general insect control and mosquitoes and has received thorough continued training in his field.
Keep an eye out for the signs it's time to call professional pest control to prevent lasting damage to your home and health.
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