If you’ve ever spotted a trail of ants on your kitchen counter or heard mysterious scratching behind the walls at night (ugh), you know how frustrating and downright unsettling it can be. And while traditional sprays and traps might get the job done, most of us are looking for a safer, more natural solution—especially with kids and pets in the house.
That’s why I swear by this super simple, low-tox trick using just two things you probably already have: peppermint oil and cotton balls.
This old-school method works wonders to repel rodents, ants, spiders, and even roaches—without leaving behind chemical smells or putting your little ones at risk.
Why Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint oil doesn’t just smell clean and fresh—it’s a powerful natural deterrent. The strong scent overwhelms the sensitive noses of rodents and bugs, sending a clear “you’re not welcome here” message. Even better? It’s completely safe when used properly and makes your home smell amazing. Win-win.
What Rodents and Insects Can Do to Your Home
If you’re wondering whether a few ants or a field mouse are worth the fuss, here’s the deal:
- 🐭 Rodents chew constantly—on wires, wood, and insulation. This can lead to electrical fires and serious home damage.
- 🦠 They leave behind droppings and urine that spread bacteria and increase the risk of illnesses like salmonella or hantavirus.
- 🛠️ Once they settle in, they multiply fast, building nests inside walls, attics, and behind appliances.
- 🐜 Ants and roaches contaminate food and can be tough to get rid of once they’ve found a food source.
My Easy DIY Peppermint Repellent
This DIY recipe takes just minutes to make and can be placed around your home wherever bugs or rodents tend to sneak in.
What You’ll Need:
- 100% pure peppermint essential oil
- Cotton balls (or reusable wool balls)
- Optional: small mesh bags or jars with holes in the lid
How to Use:
- Add 5–10 drops of peppermint oil to each cotton ball.
- Place them in pest-prone areas, such as:
- Under the kitchen sink
- Behind the trash can
- Inside cabinets and drawers
- Garage corners
- Behind the stove or fridge
- Near doorways and windows
Refresh every 2–3 weeks or when the scent starts to fade.
💡 Bonus Tip: You can also add a few drops of peppermint oil to a spray bottle with water and lightly mist baseboards or pantry corners for added coverage.
Is It Safe for Kids and Pets?
Yes—when used responsibly. Just be sure the cotton balls are out of reach of curious little hands (or paws). Peppermint oil is potent and should not be ingested or rubbed directly on skin.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your home free from pests doesn’t have to mean filling it with toxic fumes or harsh chemicals. This peppermint trick is budget-friendly, effective, and smells like a breath of fresh air—literally. Whether you’re dealing with mice in the garage or ants in the kitchen, this DIY repellent is a simple swap you’ll feel good about.
You might also like:
- My DIY mosquito repellent spray for kids
- How I use Mosquito Dunks to keep our yard bite-free
- Non-toxic cleaning swaps for a safer home
Other Ways I Use Peppermint Oil Around the House
- As a natural room freshener: Add a few drops to a diffuser or a spray bottle with distilled water and witch hazel.
- In homemade cleaning sprays: Combine with vinegar and water for an all-purpose cleaner that smells amazing.
- To repel bugs on the go: Add a drop to your wrist or ankles (diluted in a carrier oil like coconut oil) when you’re outside for a natural mosquito deterrent.
Rotate Your Scents for Maximum Effect
Some pests can adapt to scents over time. For best results, try rotating peppermint oil with other essential oils like:
- Eucalyptus – great for flies and mosquitoes
- Tea tree – helps repel ants and cockroaches
- Lemongrass or citronella – natural mosquito repellents
- Lavender – calming for humans, not so much for bugs!
You can even mix peppermint with lavender or eucalyptus for a powerful blend.
