With all the rain we’ve been getting, I’m noticing some unwanted critters around my house. I blame it on the rain because I am not a dirty person, but it is embarrassing when company is over and in comes one of those little critters scurrying across the floor.

Whether your problem is ants, roaches, or anything in between, here are a couple of natural ideas to keep your home bug free.

My biggest problem is the water bugs, also known as palmetto bugs. They are big and gross and on the hunt for food and water. I usually find these ugly guys in the kitchen hiding under appliances or under the kitchen sink because I have a leaky faucet.

One way to get rid of water bugs is to use bay leaves, whole or crushed, around your windowsills, entry ways and other problem areas. They hate the smell. Another solution is to use catnip. You can either place the catnip in the entry ways, the same as the bay leaves or use it in little pouches and place them in your cupboards and behind appliances. Equal parts of sugar and baking soda can be mixed and spread throughout your kitchen. Be careful not to put too much in one area as they stay away from piles of powder. Boric acid powder works well, too. The powder and the acid will be ingested through their legs and antennae.

For smaller bug issues, try mixing essential oils with dish soap and water in a spray bottle. A few drops of peppermint, orange, lemon or tea tree oil mixed with a few drops of dish soap, then fill the rest of the bottle with water. Now you’ve got your own type of natural Raid bug spray. Another version of bug spray can be used by combining orange, peppermint or citronella essential oils and vinegar in a spray bottle.

Ants despise the smell of cucumbers, mint leaves, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, lemon juice and coffee grounds. Try placing these ingredients where you notice gathering points for ants throughout your home.

One last tip, if you are having problems with any of these natural deterrents, try using diatomaceous earth. This is a safe and effective way to control any insect in your home. Diatomaceous earth is mostly used as an insecticide because the dust has razor-sharp edges that are lethal to insects.  Since it has many uses, it can be found at Home Depot, Lowes and Wal-Mart in the gardening center. Be sure not to buy the type sold in pool filtration aisles, as it is too fine and usually contains various toxic chemicals. Make sure it is food grade, as farmers use this to protect crops and store food.

Try these various recipes for a bug free summer! Did I miss something? Let me know at www.facebook.com/Miraclean.