Author Twinkle Khanna shares home spray to ward off kitchen cockroaches and ants

Twinkle Khanna, author and Instagram influencer, posted a DIY mixture of bay leaves, cloves and vinegar to deter cockroaches and red ants in kitchen drawers and cabinets. She called it a "desi jugaad" to keep pests from turning the kitchen into a dance floor, joking that if she could spray it on people she would have no late‑night visitors at all. Dr Brunda M S, senior consultant in internal medicine at Aster CMI Hospital in Bangalore, said such home sprays can sometimes repel pests because of their strong smell, but they are not a full‑proof solution and should not replace professional pest control for persistent problems. She warned against spraying the mixture on food, cooking utensils or any surface that contacts food unless safety is confirmed. The doctor emphasized that keeping kitchens clean is crucial; food crumbs, moisture, grease and waste attract cockroaches, ants, flies and other insects, while dirty sponges and utensils can breed harmful germs that cause food contamination and stomach infections. Regular cleaning, good ventilation and hand hygiene during food preparation are recommended to maintain a hygienic kitchen. The article notes the information is drawn from public sources and advises consulting a health practitioner before adopting any routine.