Twinkle Khanna’s ‘desi jugaad’ to keep cockroaches and ants out of your kitchen
Source Entity
The Indian Express
Author Twinkle Khanna has shared a natural, DIY kitchen spray recipe using bay leaves, cloves, and vinegar to deter cockroaches and ants. The method promotes a chemical-free approach to household pest management.
Natural Pest Control: The Twinkle Khanna Approach
The Rise of DIY Household Remedies
In an era where many homeowners are increasingly wary of the potential health impacts associated with synthetic pesticides and chemical-heavy aerosol sprays, natural alternatives have gained significant traction. Author and influencer Twinkle Khanna recently highlighted a 'desi jugaad'—a colloquial term for a creative, low-cost hack—to manage common kitchen pests like cockroaches and red ants. By utilizing everyday pantry staples, this approach reflects a growing cultural shift toward sustainable, non-toxic home maintenance.
Breaking Down the 'Desi Jugaad' Formula
The core of Khanna’s method involves a simple infusion process. By crushing 8-10 cloves and 2-3 bay leaves and boiling them in a mixture of one cup of water and one cup of vinegar, users can create a potent, aromatic repellent. Once strained and placed in a spray bottle, the liquid is designed to be applied to the corners of drawers and cabinets. The efficacy of this mixture relies on the strong, volatile oils found in cloves and bay leaves, which are known to act as natural deterrents to various insects, combined with the acidic properties of vinegar.
The Science of Botanical Repellents
While this solution is presented as a domestic hack, it aligns with broader principles of integrated pest management (IPM). Cloves, containing eugenol, have long been documented for their antimicrobial and insect-repellent properties. Similarly, the pungent scent profile of bay leaves often masks food odors that attract pests, effectively disrupting their sensory navigation. When paired with vinegar, which can wipe away pheromone trails left by ants, the spray serves as both a deterrent and a cleaning agent.
Practicality and Safety in the Kitchen
One of the primary benefits of this DIY approach is its safety profile. Unlike commercial chemical sprays that often require ventilation and pose risks to pets or children, this mixture uses food-grade ingredients. For households looking to maintain a hygienic kitchen environment without introducing harsh toxins near food preparation surfaces, this method offers a viable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative.
Broader Context and Lifestyle Commentary
Beyond the functional aspects of the remedy, Khanna’s humorous commentary—joking that she wishes the spray could also deter unwanted two-legged late-night guests—adds a layer of relatability to the advice. It frames domestic management not just as a chore, but as a manageable aspect of daily life that can be handled with wit and creativity. As social media continues to democratize household tips, such hacks highlight how traditional knowledge, combined with modern convenience, remains highly relevant.
Conclusion: A Sustainable Future for Home Care
As consumers continue to prioritize wellness and eco-conscious living, the popularity of such natural pest control methods is likely to persist. While this 'desi jugaad' may not replace professional extermination for severe infestations, it serves as an excellent preventative measure for everyday maintenance. By leveraging the natural properties of spices and vinegar, homeowners can effectively protect their living spaces while adhering to safer, more sustainable practices.