Published on April 27th, 2012 | by Sonya Kanelstrand

Three Efficient and Natural Ways to Get Rid of Ants

I love how spring awakens nature, adorns the trees with brand new clothes and allows all living creatures escape from their winter hideaways to enjoy the sun. But what is natural outdoors often turns into a problem indoors. Look at ants. They are an important part of the environment and helping keep the ecological balance by feeding on pests, dead insects and decomposing tissue from dead animals. But who wants them at home?

Here are three efficient and natural ways to get rid of ants.

We discussed natural ways to keep mosquitoes away, and there are similar solutions for ants? Instead of using pesticides made with toxic chemicals proven to have long-term effects on Earth’s natural balance and are expensive, I offer you 3 of the most efficient and natural ways to keep ants away from your home.

Herbs

Sprinkle salt, basil, red/black pepper or cinnamon along the ant paths in your house, across the doorway or window sills. You can also place bay leaves in cabinets and you will never see ants again (or at least until the end of the season). The Bay leaves also will help keep cockroaches away, a real bonus.

Vinegar

Wipe down the counters, walls, doorways and floors with a 50-50 mixture of white vinegar and water. The strong smell repels the ants. Remember ants also use a scent trail to find food other ants have found. The vinegar destroys the vapor trail forcing ants to find food elsewhere.

Cucumbers

Place cucumber peels in areas you see ants and very soon they will disappear. Cucumber peels are toxic to the types of fungi ants feed on, and are avoided by ants. This is a good deterrent before ants become a problem so use this solution at the beginning of ant season and change them out often.

Do you know a different and efficient way to get rid of ants naturally? Share it with us in the comments.

[CC Photo via Kanelstrand]

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Tags: ants, natural cleaners, natural remedies

About the Author

Sonya Kanelstrand Sonya is a photographer and a creative artist sharing her Scandinavian experiences. Her blog Kanelstrand Organic Living has become the meeting point of a vibrant green community of eco-conscious artists and crafters from around the world. Sonya believes that people and nature can co-exist together in a healthy and inspiring union without harming each other. She implements the knowledge gained from studying Philology and Pedagogy in her approach to sustainable and eco-friendly living.