UK households are being urged to place coffee grounds near windows this June as a natural way to keep ants and other pests at bay. With summer temperatures soaring and windows left open for fresh air, ants often find their way inside. Experts from BBC Good Food have shared clever, eco-friendly tips to repel these insects without resorting to chemical products.
Why Coffee Grounds Work
Ants rely heavily on their sense of smell to navigate and communicate. Coffee grounds emit a strong aroma that overwhelms their olfactory senses, causing them to avoid areas where the scent is present. The experts advise: "Save used coffee grounds and make a 5cm wide barrier around holes, cracks and windowsills." This barrier should be refreshed regularly to maintain its potency.
Other Natural Repellents
Citrus peels are another effective option, as their strong scent also disrupts ants' ability to find food and communicate. For ants already inside, a mixture of sugar and baking soda can be used—ants are attracted to the sugar but die after ingesting the baking soda. Additionally, sealing cracks and holes prevents ants from entering in the first place.
Removing Ant Trails
Ants leave pheromone trails to guide others. A solution of equal parts water and vinegar can be sprayed on these trails and entry points to erase the scent and deter further invasions.
These natural methods are not only safe for households but also environmentally friendly, making them ideal for summer pest control.
