Yahoo News Expert shares two cheap and simple ingredients to keep ants away from your house for good
Ants are a common pest found inside houses and flats from now until the end of summer. Certain months see an increase in ant activity, with these pests emerging in spring due to factors such as warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, but that doesn't mean you have to put up with them.
As it gets hotter, ants become more active and start their search for food. This time also sees a surge in their reproduction, leading to an increase in the number of ants in a colony - and consequently, an increase in the number of ants visible inside people's homes.
To prevent an invasion in your home, Rocky Vuong, cleaner and founder of Calibre Cleaning Limited, has shared some easy tips for natural methods to deter ants from homes and stop them from entering, reports the Express. For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter.
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One of the first items Rocky suggests is mint, including fresh mint leaves and peppermint essential oil, which he describes as "powerful ant repellents". Simply soak some cotton balls in peppermint essential oil and place them near entry points, or plant mint around the perimeters of your house.
Another natural deterrent is white vinegar. Its acidic nature "disturbs the scent trails" of ants, according to Rocky. He advises: "Develop a solution from equal parts of white vinegar and water. Simply wipe down the surfaces where ants have been seen and use a spray bottle to target the ant trails directly."
According to Rocky, it is all about using the "right spices". He advised: "Ants hate the smell of cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Simply sprinkle these spices on the ant trails or near the entry points to make them stay away from entering your house."
However, it's crucial that households remember to refresh these spices every 10 to 15 days to maintain their effectiveness. In addition to these repellents, you can also create your own "DIY ant traps." Get the best user experience with WalesOnline’s Premium app on Apple or Android
Rocky explained: "In a shallow bowl, mix equal parts of sugar and borax. The sugar is going to attract the ants and the borax will dehydrate them. Place these traps near the ant trails and entry points. However, ensure borax is kept out of reach of children and pets, as it is toxic when ingested."
Once the ants have been eradicated, it's time to "seal up your place". To do this, inspect the foundation of your home, walls, and check the crevices around the doors and windows for any gaps and cracks - seal these openings using caulk to prevent ants from using the entry points.
Also, ensure that you thoroughly clean your bins, and tightly close their lids as Rocky points out, "ants love to live in overflowing trash."
