Low Danger Pest Control for the Keurboom Park Community
This guide, developed by the University of Cape Town's Division of Environmental Health for the City of Cape Town, explains safe, low-cost, and chemical-free pest control methods for households and community spaces.
Low Danger Pest Control for the Keurboom Park Community
It helps reduce the use of illegal "street pesticides," which are highly toxic and dangerous to humans, pets, and the environment.
Principles
- No harmful chemicals: All methods use household or natural ingredients.
- Child & pet safety: Keep all mixtures and sprays out of reach.
- Community empowerment: Focused on affordable and effective home solutions.
- Environmental protection: Avoids toxins that harm local ecosystems and pollinators.
Pest Control by Category
Ants
Use vinegar and water, bicarbonate jam bait, or diatomaceous earth to kill and deter ants.
Prevention: Seal entry holes, wipe surfaces with lemon juice, and use mint or cinnamon near windows.
Bed Bugs
Wrap mattresses in black plastic and leave them in the sun.
Neem oil, bicarbonate of soda, and yeast-sugar traps are effective.
Wash bedding regularly and avoid second-hand mattresses.
Cockroaches
Use sugar + bicarbonate, peanut butter sticky traps, or neem sprays.
Keep kitchens clean and wipe surfaces with peppermint-vinegar.
Fleas
Boil lemon or eucalyptus leaves to make repellents.
Sprinkle salt or diatomaceous earth on carpets and pet bedding.
Wash pets and their bedding weekly.
Flies
Make vinegar-water sprays or bottle traps using leftover food.
Keep bins clean and covered; hang basil or citrus peels to repel flies.
Mosquitoes
Remove all standing water (pots, gutters, toys).
Create a yeast and sugar trap or neem-water spray.
Grow lemongrass, mint, or lavender to repel mosquitoes.
Rodents
Use bicarbonate-sugar-flour bait, or strong snap traps with peanut butter.
Prevention: Store food in sealed containers, fix leaks, and block entry holes with steel wool.
Ticks
Use eucalyptus, citronella, or neem sprays to protect pets and homes.
Regularly check pets for ticks and keep pet bedding clean.
Safety Notes
- Always label containers clearly (e.g., "DO NOT INGEST").
- Wear a mask when using diatomaceous earth to avoid inhalation.
- Avoid applying these mixtures near children or pets.
- Never use street pesticides sold at taxi ranks or informal markets—they are illegal and deadly.
For More Information
Division of Environmental Health, University of Cape Town