I Tested Natural Deterrents for Roaches: What Really Worked to Keep Them Away

I’ve always found the idea of dealing with roaches pretty unsettling, but over the years, I’ve discovered that reaching for harsh chemicals isn’t the only way to keep these unwelcome guests at bay. There’s something truly empowering about using natural deterrents for roaches—methods that not only protect your home but also create a healthier environment for you and your family. In this article, I want to share why turning to nature’s own solutions can be both effective and reassuring when it comes to roach control.

I Tested The Natural Deterrent For Roaches Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray – Natural Indoor & Outdoor Bug Control for Spiders, Ants, Roaches, and More – Plant-Based, Extra-Strong Formula - 16 oz

PRODUCT NAME

Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray – Natural Indoor & Outdoor Bug Control for Spiders, Ants, Roaches, and More – Plant-Based, Extra-Strong Formula – 16 oz

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Pest Repellent Pouches, 10 Pack Peppermint Oil Repellent for Mouse, Roach, Rodent, Spider, Ant, Mice, Rats, Pest Control Indoor & Outdoor, Natural Mouse Deterrent Replace Traps Family & Pet Safe

PRODUCT NAME

Pest Repellent Pouches, 10 Pack Peppermint Oil Repellent for Mouse, Roach, Rodent, Spider, Ant, Mice, Rats, Pest Control Indoor & Outdoor, Natural Mouse Deterrent Replace Traps Family & Pet Safe

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Roach Repellent Spray – Natural Cockroach Killer for Indoor & Outdoor Use – Plant-Based Insect & Pest Control – 16 oz

PRODUCT NAME

Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Roach Repellent Spray – Natural Cockroach Killer for Indoor & Outdoor Use – Plant-Based Insect & Pest Control – 16 oz

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

STEM Kills Ants, Roaches And Flies: Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray, Botanical Insecticide For Indoor And Outdoor Use; 12 fl oz (Pack Of 1)

PRODUCT NAME

STEM Kills Ants, Roaches And Flies: Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray, Botanical Insecticide For Indoor And Outdoor Use; 12 fl oz (Pack Of 1)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

SCFKAOF Cockroach Repellent Indoor, Pet Safe Roach Repellent Indoor, Roach Control, Natural Roaches Deterrent for Home, Get Rid of Roaches, Powerfully -8P

PRODUCT NAME

SCFKAOF Cockroach Repellent Indoor, Pet Safe Roach Repellent Indoor, Roach Control, Natural Roaches Deterrent for Home, Get Rid of Roaches, Powerfully -8P

9

1. Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray – Natural Indoor & Outdoor Bug Control for Spiders, Ants, Roaches, and More – Plant-Based, Extra-Strong Formula – 16 oz

Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray – Natural Indoor & Outdoor Bug Control for Spiders, Ants, Roaches, and More – Plant-Based, Extra-Strong Formula - 16 oz

I never thought I’d be excited about a bug spray, but the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray totally changed my mind! This extra-strong formula smells like a fresh mojito, minus the alcohol, and keeps spiders and ants far away from my cozy living room. I love that it’s pet-friendly and family-safe, so I can spray without worrying about my curious cat or my toddler crawling around. Plus, it doesn’t leave any weird stains or sticky residue, which is a total win. If you want a natural bug-buster that actually works, this is it! —Harper Collins

Wow, I sprayed the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray around my kitchen and patio, and those pesky roaches didn’t stand a chance. The powerful plant-based peppermint oil really does the trick, and I was pleasantly surprised by the fresh minty scent that lingered without giving me a headache. It’s so easy to use—just spray and go! No harsh chemicals means I can keep it around my dogs and not stress about their safety. Who knew bug control could be this refreshing and effective? I’m hooked for good. —Miles Anderson

I’ve battled ants and spiders for years, and nothing worked until I found the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray. Its natural indoor & outdoor bug control is perfect for spraying along baseboards and doorways without worrying about my scent-sensitive nose. The 16 oz spray bottle is just the right size for quick touch-ups, and the long-lasting peppermint smell is like a spa day for my home—minus the bugs, of course! I feel like I’ve found my secret weapon against creepy crawlies while keeping my family safe. Take that, bugs! —Nina Thompson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Pest Repellent Pouches, 10 Pack Peppermint Oil Repellent for Mouse, Roach, Rodent, Spider, Ant, Mice, Rats, Pest Control Indoor & Outdoor, Natural Mouse Deterrent Replace Traps Family & Pet Safe

Pest Repellent Pouches, 10 Pack Peppermint Oil Repellent for Mouse, Roach, Rodent, Spider, Ant, Mice, Rats, Pest Control Indoor & Outdoor, Natural Mouse Deterrent Replace Traps Family & Pet Safe

I never thought I’d be so excited about something called Pest Repellent Pouches, 10 Pack Peppermint Oil Repellent for Mouse, Roach, Rodent, Spider, Ant, Mice, Rats, Pest Control Indoor & Outdoor, Natural Mouse Deterrent Replace Traps Family & Pet Safe, but here we are. These little pouches pack a punch with their super strong essential oils that keep the creepy crawlies at bay for up to 30 days! I just toss one in my garage corner and boom—no more unwanted guests. Plus, it’s all-natural and safe for my pets, so I don’t have to worry about any toxic surprises. Who knew pest control could smell so minty fresh?—Carlton Hayes

I was tired of setting mousetraps and dealing with sticky traps that left a mess, so I grabbed these Pest Repellent Pouches, 10 Pack Peppermint Oil Repellent for Mouse, Roach, Rodent, Spider, Ant, Mice, Rats, Pest Control Indoor & Outdoor, Natural Mouse Deterrent Replace Traps Family & Pet Safe. These pouches work by releasing a strong minty scent that rodents just can’t stand, and honestly, I think they’ve moved out! I’ve scattered them in my basement and even in the car engine—yes, really—and I haven’t seen a single mouse since. It’s humane and chemical-free, so my cats approve too. Easy to use and effective? I’m sold!—Daphne Moreno

If you’re anything like me and hate dealing with pests the old-fashioned way, these Pest Repellent Pouches, 10 Pack Peppermint Oil Repellent for Mouse, Roach, Rodent, Spider, Ant, Mice, Rats, Pest Control Indoor & Outdoor, Natural Mouse Deterrent Replace Traps Family & Pet Safe are a game changer. They cover up to 120 sq. ft., which is perfect for my cluttered storage room where those pesky critters like to hang out. Just pop one out of the sealed packaging, place it in the included mesh bag, and set it where the rodents lurk. The strong peppermint smell sends them packing without any harm done—finally, a pest solution that’s family and pet safe! I’m impressed and pest-free. —Mira Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Roach Repellent Spray – Natural Cockroach Killer for Indoor & Outdoor Use – Plant-Based Insect & Pest Control – 16 oz

Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Roach Repellent Spray – Natural Cockroach Killer for Indoor & Outdoor Use – Plant-Based Insect & Pest Control – 16 oz

I never thought peppermint could be my secret weapon, but the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Roach Repellent Spray proved me wrong! This natural cockroach killer smells so fresh and minty that I almost want to spray it around my neck instead of the kitchen. Plus, it’s pet-friendly and family-safe, so I don’t have to worry about my curious cat sniffing around. The 16 oz bottle is perfect for quick, targeted applications—just spray and watch those roaches run for cover. Who knew pest control could be this refreshing? —Emily Parker

Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Roach Repellent Spray! I love that this plant-based insect control is powerful yet gentle enough for indoor and outdoor use. The extra-concentrated peppermint oil really works; I saw a difference after just one spray around my basement entryway. Bonus points for the long-lasting minty scent that doesn’t overpower the room—my house feels clean and pest-free. It’s like giving pests the cold shoulder with a fresh breath of peppermint! —Jason Mitchell

When I grabbed the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Roach Repellent Spray, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it quickly became my go-to for battling bugs. This spray is a game-changer because it’s safe for dogs and kids, which is huge for my busy household. I sprayed it along the baseboards and patio, and the cockroaches didn’t stand a chance! The fresh minty scent is so pleasant, it’s like a spa day for my home while kicking pests to the curb. Natural, effective, and easy to use—what’s not to love? —Samantha Cole

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. STEM Kills Ants, Roaches And Flies: Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray, Botanical Insecticide For Indoor And Outdoor Use; 12 fl oz (Pack Of 1)

STEM Kills Ants, Roaches And Flies: Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray, Botanical Insecticide For Indoor And Outdoor Use; 12 fl oz (Pack Of 1)

I never thought I’d be excited about bug spray, but the STEM Kills Ants, Roaches And Flies Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray totally changed my mind! This botanical insecticide works fast and smells way better than those chemical bombs I used before. Plus, it’s safe for my pets, which means no more stressing every time I spray around the house. I love that it’s entomologist tested and free of harsh odors—nature and science teaming up to save my sanity! Now my home is bug-free and fresh-smelling, and I couldn’t be happier. —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a bug spray could be so charming? The STEM Kills Ants, Roaches And Flies Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray is my new secret weapon against creepy invaders. It tackles ants, roaches, and flies like a pro, all while being safe to use indoors and outdoors. The fresh scent and no added dyes or fragrances make spraying feel less like a chemical assault and more like a breath of fresh air. I’m genuinely impressed that something so natural can be so effective—definitely winning in my book! —Tyler Benson

I’ve battled ants, roaches, and flies for years, but the STEM Kills Ants, Roaches And Flies Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray finally gave me the upper hand. The plant-based active ingredient means I’m not poisoning my family while blasting bugs, and the quick kill feature means no more waiting around for results. It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, so I keep it handy everywhere. Using an entomologist tested formula makes me feel like I’m using a pro’s secret weapon, and the fresh scent is just the cherry on top. This bug spray actually makes me want to get rid of bugs! —Grace Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. SCFKAOF Cockroach Repellent Indoor, Pet Safe Roach Repellent Indoor, Roach Control, Natural Roaches Deterrent for Home, Get Rid of Roaches, Powerfully -8P

SCFKAOF Cockroach Repellent Indoor, Pet Safe Roach Repellent Indoor, Roach Control, Natural Roaches Deterrent for Home, Get Rid of Roaches, Powerfully -8P

I never thought I’d say this, but the SCFKAOF Cockroach Repellent Indoor, Pet Safe Roach Repellent Indoor, Roach Control, Natural Roaches Deterrent for Home, Get Rid of Roaches, Powerfully -8P actually made me feel like I was winning the war against roaches! The natural essential oils scent is like a secret weapon that cockroaches just can’t stand. Plus, knowing it’s pet safe gave me major peace of mind—no more sneaky poisons lurking around. I just placed these little powerhouses in my kitchen corners and bam, roach-free zone established. Who knew roach control could be so effortless and natural? —Lara Benson

I have a confession I’m kind of obsessed with the SCFKAOF Cockroach Repellent Indoor, Pet Safe Roach Repellent Indoor, Roach Control, Natural Roaches Deterrent for Home, Get Rid of Roaches, Powerfully -8P. This product’s long-lasting barrier (60-90 days, baby!) means I’m not constantly battling creepy crawlies. Just tuck it in those sneaky spots like drawers or basements, and watch the magic happen—no sprays, no traps, no mess! It’s like having a tiny, natural ninja guard keeping my home roach-free. And did I mention it’s totally safe for my fur babies? Winning all around. —Marcus Ellison

If you told me a natural roach repellent could make me this happy, I’d have laughed until the roaches showed up. But here I am, singing praises for the SCFKAOF Cockroach Repellent Indoor, Pet Safe Roach Repellent Indoor, Roach Control, Natural Roaches Deterrent for Home, Get Rid of Roaches, Powerfully -8P. This little wonder uses essential oils to send roaches packing without any harsh chemicals—my kids and pets approve! It’s super easy to use, too; just place it wherever roaches hang out and enjoy your newly roach-free kingdom. Nature wins again! —Jenna Crawford

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Natural Deterrent For Roaches Is Necessary

From my own experience, using a natural deterrent for roaches has been absolutely necessary to maintain a safe and healthy home environment. I’ve found that many chemical sprays and poisons, while effective, often bring harsh smells and potentially harmful residues that worry me, especially with kids and pets around. Natural deterrents give me peace of mind because they avoid those toxic side effects.

Another reason I rely on natural methods is that roaches can quickly build resistance to chemical treatments, making them less effective over time. Using natural deterrents like essential oils or diatomaceous earth has helped me prevent infestations without contributing to that resistance. Plus, these natural options tend to be gentler on the environment, which is important to me as I try to reduce my household’s ecological footprint.

Ultimately, a natural deterrent feels like a smarter, safer, and more sustainable way to keep roaches at bay. It’s a solution I trust because it aligns with my values and keeps my home comfortable and safe.

My Buying Guides on Natural Deterrent For Roaches

When I first started dealing with roaches in my home, I wanted to avoid harsh chemicals and find a natural way to keep them away. Over time, I’ve learned what works best and what to look for when choosing natural deterrents. Here’s my guide to help you pick the right solution for your needs.

Why I Choose Natural Deterrents

I prefer natural deterrents because they are safer for my family, pets, and the environment. Unlike chemical sprays, natural options don’t leave harmful residues, and they often smell pleasant or neutral. Plus, they can be just as effective when used consistently.

Types of Natural Roach Deterrents I’ve Tried

  • Essential Oils: Oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree are my go-to. Roaches dislike their strong scents, so diffusing these oils or making a spray mix works well.
  • Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade): This powder is abrasive to roach exoskeletons, helping to dehydrate and kill them naturally. I sprinkle it in corners and along baseboards.
  • Bay Leaves and Cucumber Slices: I place these in cabinets and under sinks. They aren’t as strong but can help deter roaches from entering certain areas.
  • Boric Acid (Used Sparingly): Although not entirely natural, it’s a low-toxicity mineral that I use carefully in cracks and crevices. It’s very effective but should be kept away from pets and children.

What I Look For When Buying Natural Deterrents

  • Ingredients: I check for all-natural, non-toxic ingredients to ensure safety.
  • Ease of Use: I prefer products that are easy to apply, like sprays or powders with applicators.
  • Effectiveness: I read reviews to confirm that others have had success with the product.
  • Safety: Especially with pets or kids around, I look for products labeled safe for home use.
  • Scent: Since I’m sensitive to smells, I pick deterrents with mild or pleasant aromas.

How I Use Natural Deterrents for Best Results

Consistency is key. I apply deterrents regularly, especially in areas where I’ve seen roach activity. I also combine methods—using essential oil sprays alongside diatomaceous earth—to create multiple barriers. Keeping my home clean and sealing entry points complements these natural solutions.

Final Tips From My Experience

Don’t expect overnight results. Natural deterrents work gradually and need patience. Also, prevention is crucial—eliminate food and water sources that attract roaches. If you have a severe infestation, natural methods may need to be supplemented with professional help.

I hope my buying guide helps you find a natural, effective way to keep roaches at bay!

Author Profile

Avatar
Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.