You know the scene: a fly orbiting the fruit bowl like it owns the place—or worse, a roach making a break for it under the sink. These tiny interlopers can turn a calm kitchen into a combat zone fast. The good news? You may already have a simple, surprisingly effective deterrent sitting in your bathroom and pantry.
Why this combo makes bugs bail
Peppermint and mint toothpaste throw off a strong, cooling scent that many insects hate—flies, mozzies, and yes, even roaches. Pair that with the fizz of baking soda meeting white vinegar, and you get a sharp, short-lived reaction plus a lingering minty note. Together, they create an atmosphere pests would rather avoid.
How to mix your 5-minute repellent
You don’t need a lab—just a bowl and a spoon.
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1 tbsp mint toothpaste
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1 tbsp baking soda
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1 tbsp white vinegar
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120 ml (½ cup) lukewarm water
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5–10 drops peppermint essential oil (optional, but it helps)
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Small, shallow containers (jar lids, saucers, etc.)
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In a bowl, blend the toothpaste and baking soda into a smooth paste.
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Slowly add the vinegar. It will foam—totally normal.
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Stir in the warm water until evenly mixed.
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Add peppermint essential oil if using and mix again.
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Pour into your small containers.
Where to place it
Slide the containers behind bins, near sinks and drains, close to entry points (windows/doors), or into dark corners where critters like to linger. You can also dab a thin layer along baseboards or behind appliances using a cotton swab.
What to expect
You should notice a difference within an hour or so: the air carries a gentle minty edge, and the usual fly-by traffic thins out. Mosquitoes and flies tend to steer clear, while roaches—sensitive to strong odors and disturbed by the soda–vinegar reaction—often vacate the area.
Make it last
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Refresh every 2–3 days for best results (the scent fades).
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For spot protection, swipe a tiny amount along thresholds or window frames.
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In summer, keep a container near frequently opened doors or windows as a natural barrier.
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Keep surfaces wiped and crumbs sealed; no repellent beats good hygiene.
A quick word on safety & common sense
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This mix is simple and non-caustic for typical household use, but keep all repellents out of reach of children.
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Essential oils can be irritating to skin and are not pet-friendly—especially for cats and some small animals. If you have pets, skip the oil and rely on toothpaste + soda + vinegar, and place trays where paws can’t reach.
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Test on an inconspicuous spot if you plan to smear it on painted or delicate surfaces.
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This is a deterrent, not a pesticide. For significant infestations (especially roaches), combine with deep cleaning, sealing entry points, and—if needed—professional treatment.
Small trick, big payoff: a low-cost, low-stress way to make your home less welcoming to winged (and skittering) visitors—using what you already have on hand.