You don’t have to choose between toxic fumes and living with pests. By combining mint toothpaste, baking soda, and white vinegar, you create a simple, low-cost remedy that both cleans and protects your home. The peppermint in the toothpaste confuses insects and drives them away, while baking soda and vinegar work together to break down the sticky trails and residues that attract them in the first place. The result is a fresh-smelling, non-toxic barrier that helps keep flies, ants, and roaches at bay.

Mix equal tablespoons of mint toothpaste, baking soda, and white vinegar, let it fizz, then dilute with warm water and, if you like, a few drops of peppermint oil. Place the solution in shallow containers or dab it along cracks, baseboards, and entry points. Refresh it every few days, and it quietly does its job—protecting your space, your family, and your peace of mind without a single harsh chemical.