As temperatures rise during spring and summer, ants become a common household nuisance, often entering through open windows and doors. While many turn to chemical products, a natural alternative may already be in your kitchen: cinnamon.
Cleaning expert and TikTok creator Chantel Mila recommends a simple solution of water and cinnamon in a spray bottle, applied around windows and entry points. Alternatively, ground cinnamon can be scattered along ant trails, windowsills, and doorways, while cinnamon sticks can be placed in pantries and cabinets.
Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that disrupts the pheromone trails ants use to navigate and find food. Ismael Girard, CEO of Pest Agent, explains: 'This substance tampers with ants' pheromone trails, making it harder for them to navigate toward their food sources or return to their colonies. Ants find the 'smell barricade' uncomfortable to cross.'
While effective as a repellent, cinnamon does not kill ants. Nicole Carpenter, president of Black Pest Prevention, notes: 'The scent of cinnamon itself doesn't kill ants. However, it makes the life of ants much more difficult.' Other strong scents like vinegar, citrus, tea-tree, lavender, and rose can also deter ants.
