Natural Flea and Bedbug Remedies

Fleas and bedbugs can be a plague to anyone. Even people who keep their homes and pets in immaculate condition can be affected by these pests. Chemical pesticides are available that will help get rid of these critters, but many people are choosing natural methods of warding off bugs. If you are in the midst of an infestation, try using a combination of methods for added effectiveness.

  1. Diatomaceous Earth

    • This fine powder is made from fossilized plant pieces and has many uses, including controlling fleas and bedbugs. The powder is very sharp, so when the bugs crawl across it they are killed. The powder is also very dry and dehydrates fleas and bedbugs when they come in contact with it.

      Diatomaceous earth (DE) can be used by lightly dusting the carpet, floorboards and your pets. However, it is hard on your lungs if you inhale it, so don't create a cloud when you sprinkle it. Brush it into your dog's coat, and leave it on the floor for a few days, then vacuum it up. The treatment can be repeated if necessary. Sprinkling it in your yard can help slow the growth of the flea population outside.

      Be sure to buy food-grade DE from health food stores. Any other type of DE has been heat- and chemically treated.

    Neem Oil

    • Neem oil comes from the neem tree. Oil is pressed from the kernels inside their seeds. It is a very potent pesticide. Neem oil will help ward off fleas and bedbugs, especially if used in conjunction with DE.

      Neem oil kills bedbugs but only on contact. This is almost impossible because bedbugs are so small. It is best to spray neem oil in areas where bedbugs thrive, such as under the bed, on carpets and floor boards, and in cracks in the wall. The neem oil will act as a repellent and will help reduce the population of bedbugs.

      Neem oil is used in dog shampoo as a flea repellent. Many commercial dog shampoos contain neem oil. You can also add neem oil to your regular shampoo to get the benefits. A good ratio is 1 to 5 milliliters of neem oil for every 100 milliliters of shampoo. Dog sprays can also be made using neem oil, a mild soap and water.

      Neem oil needs to be used continuously to have an effect. It won't get rid of bugs overnight.

    Essential Oils

    • Essential oils are made by extracting oils from plants using a distillation technique. A wide variety of oils are on the market. Many of them can be used to repel bugs.

      Try citronella, cedar, peppermint, rosemary, eucalyptus, lemongrass, lavender and clove oil to repel both bedbugs and fleas. The oils can be mixed with water and added to a spray bottle and sprayed around the house. Avoid contact with eyes. The oils can also be mixed with jojoba or almond oil to make a natural bug repellent for the skin.