12 Surprising Ways to Use Mint Around the House (Other Than for Tea)

Mint is often thought of as nothing more than a kitchen herb, used to flavor refreshing drinks, garnish desserts, or add a fresh touch to homemade meals. But this fragrant, fast-growing plant has so much more to offer.

Thanks to its refreshing aroma and naturally occurring compounds, including menthol, menthone, and pulegone, mint can be useful in several areas of everyday household life.

If you grow mint in your garden, you probably know how quickly it spreads. Before long, you may have more leaves than you could ever use in the kitchen!

Instead of letting that extra mint go to waste, why not put it to work around your home? From freshening up carpets and closets to experimenting with natural pest deterrents, there are plenty of creative ways to use this versatile herb.

Here are 12 surprising ways to make the most of mint beyond the kitchen.

1. Help Keep Mice Away With Peppermint

Mice have a highly developed sense of smell, making strong aromas particularly noticeable to them. Peppermint's sharp, refreshing scent is often used as a natural deterrent around the home.

How to use it:

Soak a few cotton balls in peppermint essential oil and place them near potential entry points, such as gaps along baseboards, attic access points, and areas underneath the kitchen sink.

You can also try placing bundles of freshly crushed mint leaves in suitable areas.

Why try it?

The strong peppermint aroma may discourage mice from lingering in treated areas. However, it isn't a guaranteed solution. Seal openings, remove food sources, and use appropriate pest-control methods for a lasting result.

2. Use Mint to Deter Spiders and Ants

Mint has a strong aroma that can make it a useful addition to your natural pest-prevention routine. Its fragrant compounds are commonly explored for their insect-repellent properties.

How to use it:

Make a simple mint spray by simmering two cups of fresh mint leaves in one cup of water. Allow the mixture to cool completely, strain out the leaves, and transfer the liquid to a spray bottle.

Lightly mist windowsills and door frames, testing a small area first.

Why try it?

The fresh scent may help discourage some insects from visiting treated areas. Reapply as needed, since homemade mint sprays don't provide a long-lasting protective barrier.

3. Enjoy a Refreshing Mint Foot Soak

After spending hours standing, walking, or running errands, your feet deserve a little attention. A warm mint foot soak is a simple way to unwind at the end of a busy day.

How to use it:

Fill a basin with comfortably warm water. Add two handfuls of freshly crushed mint leaves and half a cup of Epsom salts.

Stir gently and soak your feet for approximately 15 minutes.

Why try it?

Mint contains menthol, which activates cold-sensitive receptors in the skin and creates a refreshing cooling sensation. Combined with a relaxing soak, it makes a pleasant addition to your evening self-care routine.

4. Make a Fresh-Smelling Kitchen Cleaner