Summer brings sunshine, barbecues, and, unfortunately, pests. But what if I told you that the key to keeping your home bug and rodent-free is sitting right in your spice cabinet? Yes, cinnamon! This common household spice naturally contains eugenol, an aromatic compound commonly found in traditional insect repellents. Here are three fantastic ways to use cinnamon this summer to keep those pesky critters at bay.

Cinnamon Spray

Say goodbye to mosquitoes with my magic bug spray. Here’s how you can make it:

### Ingredients:
– 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
– 4 cups of warm water
– A couple of drops of rubbing alcohol
– A couple of drops of dish soap

Instructions:
1. Mix the cinnamon into the warm water and let it steep for a few hours, similar to making tea.
2. Strain the liquid to ensure it doesn’t clog up your spray bottle.
3. Pour the cinnamon “tea” into a spray bottle.
4. Add the rubbing alcohol and dish soap, then shake to combine.
5. Spray around your outdoor areas and enjoy a mosquito-free environment!

Fruit Fly Deterrent

Keep fruit flies away from your fruit bowl with this simple trick. Just place a couple of cinnamon sticks in your fruit bowl, and you will be fruit fly-free all summer long. The scent of cinnamon is a natural deterrent for these tiny pests.

Trash Can Protector

Trash cans can attract all sorts of pests, from maggots to raccoons. Keep them out with cinnamon:

1. Sprinkle a light layer of cinnamon at the bottom of your trash can.
2. Don’t forget to sprinkle some on the lid as well.

Critters hate the smell and powdery texture of cinnamon, making it an effective and natural way to protect your trash cans. This summer, let cinnamon be your secret weapon against pests. It’s natural, easy to use, and already in your kitchen. Enjoy a bug-free summer!