How to get rid of ticks at home using folk remedies? - briefly
Apply a warm saline or diluted vinegar rinse to the area, then extract the parasites with fine tweezers and disinfect the bite with antiseptic. Follow with a garlic paste or a few drops of lavender or tea‑tree oil to repel any remaining ticks.
How to get rid of ticks at home using folk remedies? - in detail
Traditional home remedies can effectively reduce tick populations inside a dwelling when applied correctly. Begin by identifying areas where ticks are likely to congregate: pet bedding, carpets, curtains, and cracks in walls or flooring. Thorough cleaning of these zones removes the insects and their hiding spots.
- Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard the bag or empty the canister outside the house to prevent re‑infestation.
- Wash pet bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat; this kills both ticks and eggs.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth, a fine silica powder, along baseboards, under furniture, and in pet sleeping areas. The abrasive particles damage the exoskeleton of ticks, leading to dehydration. Use food‑grade material and keep it dry to maintain efficacy.
- Apply a solution of 5 % apple cider vinegar mixed with an equal part water to floorboards and window sills. The acidity disrupts tick respiration. Test a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid discoloration.
- Place sachets of dried rosemary, lavender, or mint in closets and cabinets. The strong essential oils act as natural repellents; replace sachets every two weeks to sustain potency.
- Use a steam cleaner on hard surfaces and upholstery. Steam at temperatures above 100 °C penetrates crevices and kills ticks instantly.
- Seal cracks, gaps, and openings around baseboards, windows, and doors with caulk or weather stripping. Reducing entry points prevents new ticks from entering the interior.
Safety considerations are essential. Wear gloves and a mask when handling diatomaceous earth or spraying vinegar solutions to avoid irritation. Keep essential‑oil sachets out of reach of children and pets, as concentrated oils can be toxic if ingested. After each treatment, ventilate rooms to disperse residual odors.
Regular monitoring enhances results. Inspect pets weekly for attached ticks, especially after outdoor activity, and remove any found with fine‑tipped tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling steadily. Maintain the cleaning schedule and replenish repellents to sustain a low‑tick environment over time.