Mixing lemon and cloves is a powerful “home secret” that serves as a natural repellent, air freshener, and germ-killer. This trick is famous in tropical climates because the strong scent of eugenol (from the cloves) combined with the acidic citric oils (from the lemon) creates an aroma that insects, especially flies and mosquitoes, cannot stand.
Instead of using chemical sprays that can irritate your lungs, this method cleans the air and keeps your home “bug-free” in a completely safe way. Many people use this in their kitchen or bedroom to get a better night’s sleep without the sound of buzzing insects.
Why This Mix is So Effective
- Repels Mosquitoes and Flies: The smell of cloves is overwhelming to an insect’s sensors, making them stay far away from the area.
- Neutralizes Smells: Lemon doesn’t just “hide” bad odors; it breaks them down, while the cloves leave a warm, clean scent.
- Kills Airborne Bacteria: Both ingredients have antiseptic properties that help keep the air in a small room fresher and healthier to breathe.
- Zero Chemicals: It is 100% safe to use around food, pets, and children.
Recipe: The 24-Hour Insect Guard
This is the easiest way to protect your home. It takes less than two minutes to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 2 Fresh Lemons
- 20 to 30 Whole Cloves
Instructions:
- The Cut: Slice the lemons in half horizontally.
- The Studding: Take the whole cloves and push the “stem” side into the flesh of the lemon. Aim for about 5 to 8 cloves per lemon half.
- The Placement: Place the lemon halves on a small plate.
- The Strategy: Put one plate on your kitchen counter, one near an open window, or one on your bedside table.
- The Routine: Replace the lemons every 2 to 3 days, or once the lemon starts to dry out.
Recipe: The Deep Cleaning Lemon and Clove Spray
If you want to clean your floors or counters while keeping bugs away, use this liquid version.
Ingredients:
- Peels from 2 Lemons
- 1 tablespoon of Whole Cloves
- 2 cups of White Vinegar
- 1 cup of Water
Instructions:
- The Infusion: Put the lemon peels and cloves into a glass jar and cover them with the vinegar.
- The Wait: Let it sit in a dark cupboard for 1 week. The vinegar will turn a dark, spicy orange color.
- The Dilution: Strain the liquid and mix it with the 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- The Use: Use this to wipe down your dining table, trash can lids, or windowsills.
Why You Will Thank Me Later
- Save Money on Pesticides: You will no longer need to buy expensive electric bug diffusers or toxic sprays.
- Sleep Better: By placing the lemon and cloves near your bed, you can keep windows open for fresh air without worrying about bites.
- Fresh Kitchen: This mixture is amazing at removing the smell of fried fish or onions from your kitchen.
A Friendly Tip for Success
If you want to make the scent even stronger to clear a stuffy nose, you can place the lemon and cloves in a small bowl of boiling water. The steam will carry the healing oils through the entire house! You’ll know the “Lemon and Clove Secret” is working when you notice the air feels “crisp” and you stop seeing flies in your kitchen.
