TikToker's 'genius' hacks for banishing spiders and bugs divides followers: 'Won't work'

If you're not a fan of creepy crawlies around your home, you're going to want to take some notes from TikToker Chantel Mila, whose viral hacks to keep bugs and spiders away have taken the internet by storm. Chantel, who regularly shares home organisation and cleaning tips, has struck a chord with over 6 million viewers who agree: bugs should stay in their rightful place—outside the home!

If you’re tired of sharing your space with itty bitty uninvited guests, these simple, all-natural tricks could help you reclaim your home and make it a bug-free zone. And, the best part is that Chantel's methods use all-natural ingredients, some of which you may already have in your pantry.

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1. Peppermint oil to the rescue

Tip: Put peppermint oil on cotton balls and place under your bin liners to repel bugs

Chantel's first hack is simple yet effective: put peppermint oil on cotton balls and place them under your bin liners.

Peppermint is armed with a potent arsenal against pests. Its chemical composition boasts a formidable trio: terpene, alcohol, and menthol. These components form the holy trinity of aromas, acting as natural fumigants against insects and rodents; and the benefits don't stop there. This natural defence leaves your bin area not just protected, but smelling minty fresh.

2. Minty fresh vacuuming

Tip: Place peppermint oil cotton balls in your vacuum to make your home smell like mint

Why stop at your bins? Chantel suggests placing peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls in your vacuum. As you clean, your home will be filled with a refreshing mint scent that bugs despise. It's a two-for-one deal: a cleaner home and a bug-repellent atmosphere.

3. Rosemary infused water for ants

Tip: Repel ants and crawling insects using rosemary infused water

Got a problem with ants or other crawling insects? Chantel recommends using rosemary-infused water to repel these persistent pests. Simply spritz it around entry points and watch the ants scurry away. Plus, your home will smell like a serene herb garden (or mum's lamb roast)!

4. Boiling water down the drains

Tip: Pour boiling water down drains to keep fruit flies and their eggs away

Fruit flies are the unwelcome guests of any kitchen, but Chantel has a hack for that too. Pour boiling water down your drains to keep fruit flies and their eggs at bay. It's a quick and easy way to ensure these tiny pests don't make themselves at home in your sink.

5. Spiders hate citrus

Tip: Spiders hate citrus so wipe down walls and floors with citrus oil or peels

If spiders give you the creeps, this is the hack for you. Chantel reveals that spiders can't stand citrus. Wipe down your walls and floors with citrus oil or peels to create a spider-free zone. Not only will this deter eight-legged intruders, but it will also leave your home smelling zesty and fresh.

Chantel's hacks clearly struck a chord with viewers, eliciting hundreds of comments and questions on social media.

"I'm an arachnophobic so the citrus is a must," shared one relieved user.

Another exclaimed, "you're an angel omg," while someone else simply wrote, "So helpful!" One user appreciated the natural approach, saying, "I kinda like this instead of using those chemicals."

However, not everyone was convinced, with a sceptical commenter joking, "when you live in Australia and you know that won't work."

"I don't think anything can save you from spiders in Australia," laughed someone else.

Think twice if you have pets

There was also an important warning for pet owners: "Just keep in mind that peppermint is not good for dogs and cats, instead use lavender for a safer alternative," one follower suggested.

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For those seeking natural solutions, these non-toxic methods offer great alternatives to chemical-based repellents. So, if you're ready to keep bugs and spiders out of your home without resorting to harsh chemicals, it's worth a try!

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