Do Bay Leaves Keep Cockroaches Away?
Bay leaves have a strong odor that repels cockroaches. You can sprinkle dried bay leaves around your kitchen, under your sink, and in the refrigerator. This natural deterrent also keeps roaches out of your pets. They are also attracted to food particles, so you should store your food properly and dispose of it properly.
Bay leaves are effective for repelling roaches, but you should make sure that you place them in areas where you prepare food and eat. The smell of fresh bay leaves will not attract them. However, when used in the right places, they can kill roaches, suffocating them.
Another popular natural roach repellent is garlic. Ground garlic cloves can be sprinkled over infested areas. Another natural repellent is diatomaceous earth, a powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It is widely available in the market and is safe for pets.
Plants like lavender and catnip are also effective at repelling roaches. You can either plant them in your garden or outdoors. Or, you can crush some leaves and sprinkle them along baseboards and other entry points. Citronella is also a good choice. This plant produces citronella-like odors.
When you find a roach in an unhygienic place, you should also make sure you keep the area dry. Keeping your home ventilated can also help. A simple solution to roach problems is to use natural insecticides. Boric acid and food-grade diatomaceous earth can help kill roaches. Using these products will not guarantee you a roach-free home, but they will keep them out.