The monsoon season is a welcome break from the heat, but it also brings along a challenge for every household—keeping grains dry and free from pests. The high humidity during this time creates a perfect breeding ground for insects, often leading to spoilage of pantry staples.

But don’t worry. With a few simple and natural hacks, you can keep your grains fresh, dry, and completely pest-free throughout the rainy months. These time-tested remedies are easy on the wallet and rely on everyday kitchen ingredients.

Here are six of the best grain-protection hacks to try this monsoon:

1. Neem Leaves – Nature’s Protective Shield Neem is a powerful natural disinfectant with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Place a few neem leaves inside your grain containers. They act as a natural insect repellent, keeping bugs and moisture at bay while preserving freshness.

2. Salt – The Humidity Absorber A small pouch or cloth bag filled with salt can be placed in storage containers. Salt draws out excess moisture from the air, keeping the grains dry and making the environment inhospitable for pests.

3. Bay Leaves – Aromatic Insect Deterrent Tuck in a few bay leaves into containers of lentils or pulses. Their strong aroma acts as a natural deterrent for insects and helps extend the shelf life of your grains without using chemicals.

4. Mustard Oil – Moisture Barrier for Pulses Add a few drops of mustard oil to pulses before storing them. The oil forms a protective layer that prevents moisture buildup and guards against fungal growth and spoilage.

5. Cloves – The Scented Shield Whole cloves are particularly effective in keeping semolina (suji) and other flours free from bugs. Their strong scent repels pests naturally and leaves your stored grains smelling fresh.

6. Red Chillies – The Natural Bug Repellent Add a few dried red chillies to your flour containers. Their intense aroma is enough to keep insects from invading your pantry. It’s a safe and traditional method many households swear by.

By incorporating these easy, natural hacks into your storage routine, you can beat the monsoon blues and enjoy fresh, unspoiled grains all season long. After all, a well-stocked and protected kitchen is the first step toward a happy and healthy home.