Peppermint: A Simple, Natural Way to Keep Pests Out of Your Home
If you’d rather not spray chemical repellents around your family—or your pets—peppermint is an easy, inexpensive alternative. Below is a quick guide to why this plant works and how to put it to use.
Why Peppermint Repels Pests
Menthol punch: Peppermint leaves are loaded with menthol. To humans, it smells refreshing; to insects and mice, it’s overwhelming and disorienting.
Nervous-system overload: Research shows menthol interferes with the sensory pathways critters use to find food and shelter, so they steer clear.
What Peppermint Helps Control
Pest How Peppermint Helps
Spiders Masking scent cues keeps them from settling in corners and window frames.
Mice Strong odor scrambles their sense of smell—key for navigation and nest building.
Ants, flies, mosquitoes Menthol confuses trail-following and breeding behavior, so they avoid treated areas.
Three Easy Ways to Use Peppermint Indoors
Potted plants
Place small pots near doors, windows, closet corners, basements, and kitchen counters.
Fresh-leaf sachets
Lightly crush a handful of leaves, tuck into breathable cloth bags, and stash in pantries or drawers.
DIY spray
Steep 1 cup of leaves in 2 cups of hot water. Cool, strain, and pour into a spray bottle. Mist entry points or spots where pests appear.
Growing Peppermint in a Pot
Light: Bright, indirect sunlight (east- or west-facing window).
Water: Keep soil moist—water when the top inch feels dry.
Soil & drainage: Use a well-drained potting mix and a container with bottom holes.
Prune often: Snip stems regularly to encourage bushy growth and a stronger scent.
Extra Benefits
Cleaner air: Like most houseplants, peppermint helps filter indoor pollutants.
Mood boost: Studies link peppermint aroma to reduced stress and sharper focus.
Pleasant décor: Fresh green leaves and a crisp scent brighten any room.
Bottom Line
For families seeking a gentle, effective way to deter mice, spiders, and common insects, a few peppermint plants—or a simple leaf spray—can do the job without harsh chemicals. Nature’s own pest control is as close as your local garden center, and it smells great, too.
