Britain is bracing itself for another heatwave, with temperatures climbing beyond 30C in certain areas next week. Warmer conditions encourage people to venture outdoors and soak up the sun - though they're frequently not the only ones.
Why Ants Become a Problem in Summer
Higher temperatures also bring ants out in force. Once ants have invaded your property, they can prove difficult to eliminate. They track scent pathways, and after discovering a food supply, they'll repeatedly return.
While numerous householders usually resort to chemical powders or sprays, there's an alternative approach that can disrupt ants' scent pathways and reduce the likelihood of them establishing themselves in your property.
The Old-School Hack: Baby Powder
Baby powder can assist in keeping ants at bay without requiring specialist products. Glen Peskett, a DIY specialist from Saxton Blades Multi Tools, explained: "Ants follow scent trails, so when one finds food, it leaves a kind of path for the rest of the colony."
"The idea with baby powder is that it can mess with those trails and make it harder for them to keep finding their way back." He added: "It is not going to wipe them out or deal with a big infestation, but some people find it helps cut down what they are seeing in certain spots."
He described it as "one of those old-school hacks that keeps doing the rounds every summer" - though it can prove effective.
How to Apply Baby Powder
Simply sprinkle baby powder lightly at suspected ant-entry locations such as window frames, skirting boards and doorsteps. This establishes both a physical and aromatic barrier that disorientates the ants.
Prevention Tips
The most effective method to prevent ants in your property is to maintain the highest possible standards of cleanliness. Ants are attracted to food sources, so it's essential to wipe up any spillages straight away and ensure bins are emptied frequently. He also suggests avoiding leaving pet food in bowls and keeping sweet products in sealed containers to deter ants.
