Using Red Onion as a Natural Pest Control Solution
Introduction
Red onion isn’t just for cooking—it can also be a powerful natural remedy against common household pests.
With its strong aroma and natural compounds, red onion acts as an effective deterrent for insects like cockroaches and reptiles like lizards.
When combined with simple kitchen staples such as baking soda and black pepper, it becomes a potent pest-repelling mixture that’s safe, eco-friendly, and easy to make.
This solution offers a chemical-free way to keep your home pest-free using ingredients you likely already have.
Ingredients
1 large red onion
1 teaspoon of baking soda (for cockroaches)
1 teaspoon of black pepper (for lizards)
Water (optional for creating a spray)
Small dish or container
Instructions
Begin by finely chopping or grating the red onion to release its juices and aroma. If targeting cockroaches, mix the chopped onion with a teaspoon of baking soda.
For lizards, mix the onion with a teaspoon of black pepper instead.
If you’d like to make a spray, add a small amount of water to either mixture and strain the liquid into a spray bottle. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
How to Make
For a solid placement method, combine the chopped red onion with your chosen additive—baking soda for cockroaches or black pepper for lizards—and place the blend into a small dish.
Set the dish in areas where pests are commonly seen, such as under sinks, near garbage cans, or behind appliances.
To make a spray version, blend the onion and additive with a small amount of water, then strain and pour the liquid into a spray bottle.
Use this to spray along walls, windows, or other pest entry points.
Variations
You can enhance this remedy by adding crushed garlic or chili powder to increase its strength. For a more aromatic deterrent, consider mixing in a few drops of essential oils such as peppermint or eucalyptus.
If you’re dealing with multiple types of pests, create separate mixtures tailored for each—one with baking soda and another with black pepper—and place them in different parts of your home.
Tips
Replace the onion mixture every few days to maintain its potency, as the aroma fades over time. Make sure the containers are placed out of reach of pets and children.
Always wear gloves when handling strong ingredients like black pepper and baking soda. For persistent pest problems.
use this solution alongside other preventive methods like sealing cracks and maintaining cleanliness.
Conclusion
Red onion offers a natural and accessible way to control pests without relying on harsh chemicals.
Its effectiveness increases when combined with simple ingredients like baking soda or black pepper, targeting specific nuisances in your home.
Whether you opt for a solid blend or a spray, this homemade solution is a budget-friendly and eco-conscious alternative to commercial pest control methods.