Hey everyone!
I’ve been battling ants in my house for what feels like months now. I really prefer not to use chemical pesticides because of my kids and pets, so I started looking into homemade ant killers. I’ve seen a lot of recipes online with varying ingredients, from vinegar and water to borax and sugar mixtures.
Background: There’s a lot of buzz around DIY solutions, especially when it comes to pest control. Many people claim that homemade options are just as effective (or even more so) than store-bought solutions. However, I’ve also read some mixed reviews.
Discussion Points:
- What homemade ant killer recipes have you tried?
- How effective were they?
- What ingredients do you recommend or caution against?
- Do you have any tips for applying these methods?
Would love to hear your experiences!
Hey @Antinator99! I’ve had some success with a borax and sugar mix. I mix equal parts borax and sugar, then add a bit of water to make it a paste. The sugar attracts the ants, and the borax kills them.
Great tip, @BugBuster88! I did something similar but used honey instead of sugar. The ants seemed to go crazy for it, and it worked wonders!
Interesting, @AntQueen22! I’ve heard honey can be more appealing, but it can also attract other pests. Did you notice any other bugs coming around when you used it?
I’ve tried a vinegar and water solution (50/50) and sprayed it directly on the ants. It didn’t get rid of the problem completely but did help reduce the number I saw in the kitchen.
I’ve done the vinegar thing too, but I always felt like I was just pushing them back instead of solving the issue. It’s great for a quick fix, though!
Absolutely, @EcoFriendlyMamma! While vinegar is good for cleaning up the trails, I think using it alone might not cut it for long-term solutions. That’s why I incorporated borax into my routine!
I’ve read about using diatomaceous earth, which is a natural powder that can kill ants. Just sprinkle it around where you see them. Have any of you tried that?
Yes, @HomeHackerJess! I use it around the foundation of my house. It takes a bit of time, but it’s great as a preventative measure. Just make sure not to get it wet!
Good point, @ChemistryCarl! I also use it, and I find it works well combined with other methods. It’s like creating a barrier that they can’t cross.
I have toddlers running around, so I’m super cautious. Has anyone tried essential oils? I’ve heard peppermint oil can repel ants.
Yes, @MomofThree! I use a mixture of peppermint oil and water in a spray bottle, and it works as a great repellent. Plus, it smells nice!
That’s a great idea! I love that it’s a natural option. Just be sure to test a small area first, as some oils can irritate sensitive skin!