Property expert reveals three easy ways to keep your pumpkin pest-free this Halloween - including a 35p cupboard item

As Halloween celebrations are in full swing, many households will be carving spooky faces into pumpkins and displaying them outside their homes.

However, Saif Derzi, founder of Property Buyers Today, warns that while carved pumpkins look great, they can attract unwanted pests, so he shares three simple ways to keep them pest-free.

Spray with a vinegar solution: “Once you have removed the seeds and pulp and carved your pumpkin, use kitchen roll to dab away as much moisture as you can. Then, apply a homemade solution of equal parts white vinegar and water to the outside and inside of the pumpkin. 

“The vinegar solution will kill bacteria and mould spores that attract bugs, as well as repel rodents with the sharp, acidic scent. A bottle of white vinegar costs as little as 35p from supermarkets like Aldi, making this a cheap and easy hack.” 

Add Vaseline to the carved edges: “Once you’ve carved your pumpkin design, applying a light coat of Vaseline or any petroleum jelly to the edges and exposed areas can help lock in moisture and act as a barrier for insects. 

“This doesn’t need to be a heavy coat. A light coat is enough to make it more difficult for insects to land and feed on the pumpkin. 

“If you use this hack, make sure to use battery-powered lights in the pumpkin, rather than candles or tea lights; otherwise it can pose a fire risk since petroleum jelly is flammable. Unlike candles, battery-powered lights also don’t heat the inside of the pumpkin, which can make it more attractive to pests.” 

Place cloves inside the pumpkin: “The strong-smelling compound eugenol found in cloves can repel pests, especially rats and ants, since it disrupts their scent trails. Place some whole cloves inside the pumpkin to protect your pumpkin from unwanted critters.” 

Saif Derzi, founder of Property Buyers Today, adds:  “Pumpkin carving is one of the best parts about Halloween, but unfortunately, it can attract unwanted pests to your home. 

“Taking these simple measures can keep pests out of your ghoulish pumpkins this Halloween and even make them last longer. These tips not only cost little, but they use natural ingredients that you may already have at home."