The arrival of warm weather in the UK brings with it not just sunshine and longer days, but also a surge in pests. These unwelcome visitors can cause significant damage to your property and carry diseases that pose serious health risks.
Joshua Houston, Pest Control expert at WhatCost, has highlighted the importance of early pest detection to minimise potential harm to your home and health. One of the most common pests during the summer months are ants. They tend to nest in the cracks and crevices around homes and, despite their small size, they are always present in large numbers.
While they may not be as harmful to humans as other pests, their bites can be irritating and due to their sheer numbers, they can infiltrate every corner of your home.
To effectively deal with an ant infestation, Houston recommends using an ant killer. This solution works quickly, destroying the nest within a few days, and is also cost-effective, being readily available for less than £10.
Some household experts are turning away from harmful chemicals and embracing natural solutions for common pest problems.
The cleaning expert Ahmed Mezil from Hella Maid has championed the use of everyday items over dangerous pesticides to protect families, pets, and the planet from unnecessary chemical exposure.
He cautions about traditional sprays: “Chemical pesticides might potentially pollute groundwater and kill butterflies, bees, and other important insects when used to get rid of ants.”
Ahmed Mezil recommends using natural alternatives to tackle ant problems without harming loved ones or the environment, urging homeowners: “Instead, give these natural remedies a try to get free of ants in your house and yard. They are less harmful to the environment, you, your family, and your pets.”
Simple internet hacks suggest combating ants with strong-smelling household items like white vinegar, lemon juice, cinnamon, or black pepper—substances that overwhelm the ant’s scent tracking abilities and deter their presence.
Although such methods are only temporary fixes—failing to eliminate the ants or prevent major invasions—for longer-term solutions, one may find potent repellents within arm’s reach in the bathroom cupboard.
From baking soda to baby powder, these items prove unexpectedly effective against pesky invaders.
