{
  "id": 14087317,
  "title": "7 kitchen ingredients that keep cockroaches away",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/7-kitchen-ingredients-that-keep-cockroaches-away",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-13T01:25:47.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/home-garden/cockroaches-keep-appearing-in-your-kitchen-put-these-7-common-ingredients-in-the-places-they-hide/articleshow/134876327.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Cockroaches often find their way into kitchens, attracted by food scraps, spills and damp spots. These pests can be tough to eradicate, so many turn to natural remedies to keep them at bay. Some ingredients commonly used for this purpose include bay leaves, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon, neem oil, catnip leaves and white vinegar mixed with peppermint oil. Bay leaves release aromatic compounds that cockroaches may dislike, while garlic and onion powders emit strong odors that may discourage them. Lemon juice and neem oil, both with potent smells, can help prevent cockroaches from entering certain areas. Catnip leaves, known for their nepetalactone compound, can be placed in sachets near cockroach hiding spots, and white vinegar combined with peppermint oil provides a refreshing scent that may keep cockroaches away. However, these natural repellents should not replace thorough cleaning and professional pest control for long-term solutions.",
  "summary": "A tidy and hygienic kitchen is vital for preventing cockroach invasions. Using everyday ingredients like bay leaves and garlic powder can act as natural repellents. Cleaning with soapy water on a consistent basis helps eliminate food scraps that attract these pests. Additionally, storing food in sealed containers further reduces their interest. In cases of heavy infestations, seeking help from…",
  "key_points": [
    "Bay leaves release aromatic compounds cockroaches may dislike",
    "Garlic and onion powders emit strong odors to discourage cockroaches",
    "Lemon juice and neem oil prevent cockroaches with potent smells"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Utilizing aromatic pantry staples offers a natural deterrent for household pests, though these scents serve as supplementary measures rather than permanent replacements for rigorous cleaning and professional extermination.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}