Affordable Summer Solution for Ant Problems: Childhood Toy Recommended by Pest Experts at Just £1 Each
In the quest to keep our homes ant-free, a surprising solution has emerged: chalk. Daniel Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control, suggests using chalk to create a physical barrier that ants avoid. This method, while not a long-term solution, can provide a temporary, natural, and non-toxic barrier that disrupts their scent trails and may reduce ant presence.
Chalk, primarily calcium carbonate, works by interfering with ants' chemical trails that guide other ants. Products like Mikado Chalk, which combine natural ingredients, have anecdotal reports of success in reducing ants over weeks, indicating some level of effectiveness in practical use. However, such natural chalk repellents typically repel rather than kill ants, so repeated application and combination with other control methods are often necessary for sustained control.
For long-term ant control, experts recommend identifying and sealing ant entry points, eliminating food sources, and using additional natural repellents or insecticidal powders such as diatomaceous earth. Pest control expert Walter Murphy explains that diatomaceous earth disrupts the pheromone trail left by the ants, making it difficult for them to navigate. This natural product kills ants by dehydration and is safe around children and pets.
Diatomaceous earth, composed of microscopic sea fossils with razor-sharp edges, physically damages the exoskeleton of ants. If ants walk through the diatomaceous earth, they will absorb it and eventually die. This eco-friendly solution can be purchased for £14.95 on Amazon. To use it, simply sprinkle it across entry points like windowsills, doorways, and around vents.
Regular reapplication of chalk is necessary, especially after cleaning or rain. Chalk can also be used to circle pet food bowls or trash bins to keep ants away from those areas. This article is written by Kezia Reynolds, who joined the platform team as News Writer in September 2024.
It's important to note that while chalk and diatomaceous earth are effective in deterring and killing ants, they are not foolproof solutions. Ants are persistent creatures and can find ways around chalk lines or create new trails. For this reason, it's crucial to combine these methods with other control strategies for sustained success.
In addition to controlling ants, diatomaceous earth can also kill bed bugs, fleas, and dust mites. This versatile product, safe and natural, often added to food as a supplement, makes it a reliable choice for those seeking a chemical-free approach to pest control.
Home and garden enthusiasts might find the use of chalk and diatomaceous earth beneficial for their lifestyle, as these natural products prove effective in deterring ants. While chalk creates a physical barrier that ants avoid, diatomaceous earth uses microscopic sea fossils to kill ants by dehydration, making it a versatile solution for pest control in both homes and gardens.
