We’ve all felt the irritation that comes with flies buzzing around, mosquito bites out of nowhere, or cockroaches showing up where they don’t belong.

Beyond the nuisance, these pests can also carry diseases—making it important to keep them at bay.

Here’s some good news: you can use common household ingredients to naturally and safely drive them away.

What You’ll Need

• 5 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1 cup of water
• 15 bay leaves
• 10 cloves
• 1 two-liter plastic bottle
• 1/2 cup shampoo (any kind)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup white vinegar

Step-by-Step Solutions

1. Mosquito Trap

• Dissolve the sugar in hot water, then add baking powder and stir thoroughly.
• Cut a 2-liter plastic bottle in half.
• Pour the mixture into the bottom half and place the top half upside down inside like a funnel.
• Set the trap in areas where mosquitoes are often seen.

2. Natural Repellent for Flies and Roaches