A powerful, natural insect repellent: for a few cents, you can prepare this at home when needed

Insects, like ants, invading the home can be a real hassle and you need to act promptly to keep them away. In addition to traps, insect repellents are also highly recommended.

One cheap, easy and natural method to make a homemade repellent (which also smells good) is described below. 

Creativo

The principle ingredient in this repellent are cloves: this spice has an intense aroma which most insects cannot abide. In fact, you probably already have a jar of cloves sitting in your pantry. Also, due to the intensity of the smell, you don't need to use many and a packet of cloves will last you ages.

In addition to the cloves, you will need some coarse/rock salt and, if desired, some extra ingredients of your own choice: some recommend adding essential oils (lemon or lemongrass are the favorites) or even fabric softener. Also, a teaspoon of 70% alcohol will be needed.

So how do you prepare this repellent? It's really simple: fill a small bowl - preferably ceramic or glass - to the 3/4 mark with course salt. Add the alcohol and mix. Sprinkle on top of this a teaspoon of cloves (but if the bowl is large, increase this quantity). Now the basic repellent is ready.

However, if you want to add a pleasant smell, then use a cap of laundry softener mixed in with the salt an alcohol. Alternatively, you can sprinkle 5-10 drops of essential oil over the mix.

Now, you just have to put the bowl near the access points to the house, such as the window sills (but out of reach of children and pets). Your DIY repellent will perfume the house and keep away unwanted guests in a natural way.