Cleaning fans say 'cheap' £1.75 product keeps ants out of house without harming pets

Ants are known to make an appearance in homes at this time of year, as improving weather draws them out to seek food.

If ignored, one pest can quickly transform into a full blown infestation, so it's best to tackle the problem before it worsens. While there are many chemical laden products available that can wipe them out, these options may not be the best for people with pets.

One "embarrassed" person who was hit by an "army of ants" sought help from a dedicated group of cleaning enthusiasts, who were all too happy to share their advice. As the person in question is also a dog owner, they were looking for suggestions that would banish the insects while keeping her pooch safe from possibly contacting toxic materials.

Taking to the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips and Tricks Facebook, they wrote: "Hey guys, posting anonymously as I am a bit embarrassed! We appear to have adopted an army of ants.

"Started off by the back door but have now negotiated their way into the kitchen and I found them crawling up the outside of the fridge. I’m hoovering every day but they keep coming back.

"We have a dog so I’m cautious about buying products. Can anyone offer advice as to how to get rid of them!? Thanks!"

While many products and tips were recommended, one that was mentioned several times was to sprinkle some talcum powder near thresholds where the ants have been entering the house. Talcum powder is the main ingredient in baby powder and while it is not recommended that dogs ingest it, the product itself is safe for pets, according to verified vet advice on Dogster.com.

One person said: "Don't like crossing talcum powder and be okay for the dog." A second penned: "Talcum powder meant to help? Sprinkle it all round back door and behind fridge etc. Hope it works.

"Talcum Powder, cheap too. Always works for me," said a third. While a fourth suggested placing "a barrier of it outside [the] door".

The tip has been backed by the experts at Heritage Pest Control, talcum powder is a natural ant repellent which is "safe for kids and pets". While it doesn't kill them, ants can't stand walking through it, as the fine texture affects their senses.

With talcum already found in baby powder, you may already have some of this in your bathroom cupboard, meaning you can save yourself a shopping trip. If you don't have any, a 200g bottle costs £1.75 at Boots, making it cheaper than many single-use products designed to kill ants.

Ants aren't the only pest that make an appearance in the spring, as it is also a time when rats become braver and venture further from their nests. Luckily, there are ways you can keep the vermin away without killing them, like this homemade spray that is made with natural but potent essential oils.

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