The
need for household products containing hazardous substances is greatly
reduced by taking preventive measures. To prevent
insect pests and vermin from taking up residence, store food
waste in sealed containers in the refrigerator or freezer until
trash collection. Keep all surfaces free of food crumbs. If a pest
problem does exist, there are alternatives to poisons and pesticides.
For
ants
Wash the area of the ant's trail to prevent others from following;
sprinkle boric acid (obtained in hardware stores) along the line
of entry.
For
roaches
Set out a dish containing equal parts sugar and baking soda (the
sugar attracts and the baking soda eliminates).
For
mice
Use mouse traps or open your home to a cat.
For
yellow jackets
Utilize pheromone-baited traps (be sure to read labels).
To
prevent flea infestations
Feed pet tablet of brewers yeast and garlic. Bathe the dog regularly
during flea season and use a flea comb on your cat or dog. Vacuum
furniture and carpet thoroughly and frequently (store vacuum outside
of home - in shed or garage, for instance - during problem periods);
clean your pet's favorite sleeping spots regularly and sprinkle
with fennel, rue or rosemary.
For
Moths
To prevent moths from feasting on your clothing and woolens, keep
them clean and store in a cedar chest. Or place sachets made of
cedar chips or lavender in your closets.
For
Drain Clogs
To prevent drain clogs, use strainer basket (kitchen) andhair traps
(bathroom). Do not pour grease down drains.
For
clogged drains
Plug overflow drain with wet cloth; pour 1/4 cup baking soda into
drain followed by 1/2 cup vinegar, close drain tightly until fizzing
action stops; flush with boiling water. Remove cloth from overflow
drain.
For
Mildew
To prevent mildew in your shower, wipe dry after use. Bleach mildew
with hydrogen peroxide (a disinfectant found in many home medicine
chests, and an environmentally safe alternative to chlorine-based
products); then scrub with a thin paste of lemon juice and borax
to inhibit mildew formation. Air fresheners disguise odors but do
not eliminate the cause. Identify and remove the source of odor.
Ventilate. |
