An old tip that still works: sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on the floor.

1. For Pest Control

• Sprinkle cinnamon in areas where you’ve noticed ants, spiders, or other pests—common areas include doorways, windowsills, and along baseboards.
• If you’re dealing with a more persistent pest problem, you can make a cinnamon spray by mixing cinnamon powder with water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution around areas where pests tend to gather.

2. For Freshening Up the Room

• Simply sprinkle cinnamon on the floor in the corners of rooms, behind furniture, or near air vents where odors are most likely to accumulate.
• Leave the cinnamon in place for a few hours, then sweep or vacuum it up. The smell will linger, freshening the room long after the cinnamon has been removed.

3. For Cleaning and Deodorizing Carpets

• If you have a carpet or rug, sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon on the surface. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb any odors and bacteria, then vacuum it up. This will leave your carpets smelling fresh and clean.

Additional Uses for Cinnamon Around the Home

If you love the idea of using cinnamon as a natural remedy in your home, you’ll be happy to know that this spice has even more uses:

1. Air Freshener: Create a DIY air freshener by placing a few sticks of cinnamon in a pot of water and simmering it on the stove. The steam will carry the scent throughout the room, and it works as an all-natural air purifier.
2. Furniture Polish: Mix cinnamon with olive oil and a bit of lemon juice to create a homemade furniture polish. This will not only clean your wood surfaces but also leave behind a beautiful, natural scent.
3. Baking Soda & Cinnamon Deodorizer: Combine cinnamon with baking soda in a small container to create a natural deodorizer for your home. Place this in areas like your bathroom, closet, or kitchen to absorb odors and freshen the air.
4. Repelling Moths: Moths dislike cinnamon, so you can use it to help protect your clothes from these pests. Sprinkle some cinnamon in drawers or closets to deter moths from damaging your garments.

The Benefits of Using Cinnamon Over Chemical Cleaners

• Safe and Non-toxic: Unlike many commercial cleaners and pest repellents, cinnamon is completely natural, making it safe for children, pets, and the environment. You won’t have to worry about harmful chemicals leaching into the air or coming into contact with your family members.
• Inexpensive: Cinnamon is a very affordable spice that can be used in many ways around the home. By using it as a natural cleaner or air freshener, you’re saving money compared to buying specialty cleaning products or chemical-laden air fresheners.
• Pleasant Scent: While chemical cleaners can leave behind strong, often overpowering smells, cinnamon’s warm, comforting scent is universally loved and creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere in any room.

A Word of Caution

While cinnamon is a great natural remedy for many household issues, it’s important to use it with care. Avoid using large amounts of cinnamon at once, as it may be overwhelming. Also, be sure to vacuum or sweep up the cinnamon after use, especially in areas that may be prone to dust build-up. While cinnamon is safe, large amounts of any substance on the floor can be a slipping hazard.

Conclusion

This old tip of sprinkling cinnamon on the floor is a testament to the timeless benefits of natural remedies. Whether you’re using it to repel pests, freshen the air, or deodorize your carpets, cinnamon is a simple yet powerful tool to keep your home fresh and clean. Plus, it’s a safe and cost-effective alternative to harsh chemicals. So, the next time you want to tackle a household issue naturally, reach for cinnamon—you might be surprised by just how effective this age-old tip really is.