Summer may be over (at least here in the US), but it's never to early to start thinking about pest management for when the bugs come back next year, or for those of you who live in areas with mild climates. Some insects are not only annoying, but can cause damage to your home and to your health.

The best option for dealing with unwanted insects is obviously with a green pest control alternative. If you have a serious problem and are looking to hire a company, look for one that considers the health of the environment and its customers, as well as the humane treatment of animals. For those of you who live in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Texas, Arizona, or Colorado, Alphaecological is one company that offers green pest control.

If you do not live in those states, or do not want to hire a company, avoid standard pest control options laden with chemicals. These are not only bad for the health of you, your children, and your pets, but also for the environment. There are many companies that offer pest management products that are non-toxic and environmentally safe.

Other healthier options for getting rid of those annoying bugs are prevention (obviously!) and making your own at home natural pest control products.

Prevention

• Make sure openings into your home are sealed.
• Don't leave uncovered food out in the open.
• Keep garbage in containers with lids, and don't let it sit in your home for long periods of time.
• Clean up spills and food messes promptly.
• Use insect repellent (natural, of course!) when you go camping or anywhere you might pick up insects.
• Bathe and comb your pets regularly to remove any insects they may have picked up.
• Dust and vacuum your home frequently, including your curtains, to deter dust mites.
• Reduce water sources such as leaky taps, and replace your pet's water frequently.

Fruit Flies

Keep your fruit in containers, and throw it away or compost if it starts to go bad. Fruit flies, once you have them, can be difficult to get rid of. Basil is a fruit fly deterrent; try keeping a basil plant in your kitchen.

Flies

Mint or eucalyptus oil can be used to deter flies. Put a few drops of eucalyptus oil on a piece of absorbent cloth and place it where flies are a problem.

Ants

Trace the ants back to their point of entry. When you found it, sprinkle a small amount of spent coffee grounds, cinnamon, or cayenne pepper. Ants won't cross with any of these there. Dry, crushed mint leaves can also work as an ant deterrent.

Cockroaches

Here's an interesting fact I bet you didn't know: catnip is a natural cockroach repellent! Garlic and bay leaves are also said to deter cockroaches.

Spiders

Lemon or lavender essential oils can be used to deter spiders. If you don't want to spray these around, put some onto cedar shavings and place them in a sachet (you can make this out of old panthose), and hang or place the sachet where you notice the spider problem.

Insect Bites

It is especially important to use a natural insect repellent on your skin. Most chemical-based insect repellents contain DEET, which can cause rash, swelling, itching, and eye irritation.

Essential oils, which are natural alternatives, to reduce the occurrence of insect bites include:

• Ticks: rose geranium, eucalyptus, lavender
• Mosquitoes: thyme, lavender
• Fleas: orange oil
• Lice:lavender, tea tea, rose geranium

Notes: If you are pregnant, consult with your doctor before using essential oils. Avoid using essential oils on your pets. They may be dangerous, especially for cats. For pets with fleas, make a tea of lemon peel and water and allow it to steep overnight. Allow to cool and sponge the tea onto your pet.