Effective DIY pest control methods

Pest control professionals can be more than just a drain on your wallet -- the harsh chemicals used are often harmful to humans and pets. Everyone has issues with pests, and since it's important to know what options are available, here are five DIY tips for keeping the creepy crawlers away safely and naturally.

• Stay on the alert with bugs, and stop the problems before they even begin.
• Wipe down counters, making sure food preparation places are clean.
• Crumbs and dirty dishes will only attract bugs.
• Little critters love food, and everything from cereal to crackers and granola can bring in the bugs. Make sure that these items are stored in airtight containers, which can be purchased at most local grocery or home supply stores.
• Water is another huge draw. Ensure leaky faucets are fixed, and don't leave out cups or buckets of water that might attract moisture-loving insects.

• Sometimes, even the most diligent cleaning will not be enough to keep insects away.  Different bugs will require different types of treatment. Here are a few solutions for the most common house pests.
• Boric acid is toxic to insects, and it is an effective way to eliminate crawling pests like cockroaches and silverfish.
• Simply sprinkle a bit of the powder in cracks and crevices where you have noticed pest activity.
• While it is not as toxic to humans, it is important to keep it out of reach of children and pets.

• Bugs hate coffee grounds, and they are actually fatal to ants.
• Recycle coffee grounds by placing them in places where the ants will walk through them.
• They will take them back to their colony and die off after consumption.

• A simple solution of vinegar and water will repel spiders and ants.
• Simply spray around any areas where you have noticed these insects, and let the vinegar work its magic.
• Use repeat spraying if necessary.

• Pour apple cider vinegar in a jar, place plastic wrap over the top and poke tiny holes in the surface.
• The sweet smell will attract the fruit flies, and once they enter the plastic wrap, they won't be able to get out again.

• Different oils will repel different bugs.
• Mix 2 tsp of your chosen oil with a cup of grain alcohol in a spray bottle.
• Lavender and lemongrass are good for repelling ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, flies and fleas.
• Spiders and ants dislike peppermint, and patchouli is good for gnats.