Ants are a common household pest, especially during summer when doors and windows are left open. However, a simple natural solution can deter them without causing harm. TikTok cleaning expert Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila, recommends using cinnamon, a spice costing around £1 from Asda.
How Cinnamon Works as an Ant Repellent
Chantel suggests mixing water and cinnamon in a spray bottle and applying it around windows and entry points. This creates an olfactory barrier that ants avoid. Nathan Kruger, owner of D-termination Pest Control, explained to The Spruce: "This aromatic spice acts as an olfactory deterrent, repelling ants without causing them immediate harm."
The key compound is cinnamaldehyde, which interferes with ants' communication trails. According to The Spruce, "Cinnamaldehyde disrupts these trails, making it harder for ants to navigate and coordinate. Without a reliable scent path to follow, they get disoriented, lose track of food, and ultimately abandon the area."
Application Methods
Both ground cinnamon and cinnamon sticks can be used. Sprinkle powder along ant trails, windowsills, and doorways. Alternatively, place cinnamon sticks in pantries, cupboards, or corners where ants gather. TikTok user Georgia, known as Clean with Georgia, also endorses this method, saying: "It's a hot spice and they do not like it. This also deters ants as well, so it's a great little hack."
Additional Benefits of Cinnamon
Cinnamon has antibacterial and deodorising properties, making it useful in homemade cleaning solutions. It neutralises unpleasant odours and inhibits microbial growth, serving as a natural disinfectant. Chantel Mila also recommends placing cinnamon sticks in vacuum cleaners for hidden fragrance.
For best results, apply the cinnamon mixture to affected areas regularly. This natural method keeps ants away without harming them, offering a safe alternative to chemical pesticides.
