Flying ants become more common in July, with July being the peak season for swarming across the UK. However, a simple kitchen item can stop them from taking over your home. By placing a mixture of white vinegar and water outdoors, you can deter these pests naturally.
What You Need to Deter Flying Ants
Barbara Costello, known as Brunch with Babs on Instagram, shared a DIY all-natural ant deterrent. She said: "DIY all natural ant deterrent. Here is a natural way to deter ants from coming inside. Ant deterrent spray. Mix ½ parts vinegar with ½ parts water in a spray bottle. Spray around the doors, windows or cracks where ants are coming in. Ants hate the smell of vinegar so the mixture will deter them from entering your home. This does NOT kill the ants."
Costello also noted that ants dislike the smell of oranges, offering an additional solution using orange peels as another option.
How Vinegar Works Against Flying Ants
The strong smell of acetic acid in vinegar confuses flying ants' sense of smell and masks the invisible scent trails they follow. This prevents them from entering your home. The solution works as an excellent natural repellent without killing the ants.
How to Apply the Vinegar Deterrent
To use this tip, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture around windows, doors, and other entry points in the garden. This should help prevent flying ants from coming inside. However, note that the vinegar wears off as the smell fades, so you will need to spray it often. Do not spray vinegar directly on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, as the acid can damage them.
If you suspect a severe infestation, contact a professional for further help. This simple hack is an effective natural way to keep flying ants at bay during their peak season.
