LifestyleUnlocking the secret of rapid ant eviction: a simple home remedy to deter unwanted guests

Unlocking the secret of rapid ant eviction: a simple home remedy to deter unwanted guests

Home remedies for ants
Home remedies for ants
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Cherkas

10:44 AM EST, February 6, 2024, updated: 4:09 AM EST, March 7, 2024

Ants are found globally. There is an estimated 12,000 species of these amazing insects worldwide. Their industrious nature makes them integral to the ecosystem, continuously clearing gardens and forests of dead organic waste and creating tunnels to aerate soil, improving plant health.

Should ants be regarded as pests?

Often, the immediate reaction to seeing ants in the garden involves launching an extermination. However, this common response is flawed. Ants are not pests. In fact, they contribute significantly to the ecosystem. Their diligent labor yields loose, fertile soil, essentially enhancing crop quality.

The issue arises when an ant infestation occurs, accompanied by the appearance of aphids in the garden. Ants' symbiotic relationship with aphids involves protecting them from their natural predators. This arrangement benefits ants, as aphids produce a delectable fluid known as honeydew that the ants love. Unfortunately, in their quest for food, agile ants can sometimes infiltrate our homes.

Lay this on baking paper, and you'll be ant-free almost instantly

In spring, we often leave doors ajar, particularly those leading to the balcony. However, open doors are like an open invitation to ants. Our homes are enticing ant paradises, filled with easily accessible food. If you wish to evict ants from your sanctuary, this simple method can help.

Prepare some baking paper, baking soda, and powdered sugar. Cut the baking paper into manageable sections and spread them out in areas frequented by ants. Sprinkle a teaspoon of powdered sugar and a teaspoon of baking soda on each piece of paper. If you're short of soda, cinnamon can be a stand-in. Blend these two ingredients, wait for the ants to discover the trap. The ants might be fond of sweet treats, they cannot tolerate baking soda or cinnamon. The more traps you lay, the higher the chances of discouraging ants to leave rapidly.

Related content