With the arrival of warmer days in Portugal, it is common to open doors and windows to air out the house. But this habit can also facilitate the entry of ants, especially when there are crumbs, food remains or small gaps near skirting boards, windows and doors. There are, however, natural strategies that can help ward off these insects without immediately resorting to chemicals.
The presence of ants indoors tends to increase in spring and summer, when these insects are looking for food and water. Although they do not always represent a direct risk, they can become uncomfortable and circulate in areas where food is stored or prepared, which is why cleaning and prevention are essential.
According to the Food and Economic Security Authority (), pest control must involve rapid detection, identification of the species involved and knowledge of their life cycle. The authority also emphasizes that the prevention and elimination of factors that favor the presence of pests are essential to avoid more persistent problems.
Cinnamon can help keep ants away from home entrances
One of the simplest natural solutions is to use cinnamon around doors, windows and other entry points. You can prepare a mixture of water and cinnamon in a spray bottle and apply it to places where ants tend to appear, such as doorsteps, windowsills, kitchen corners and areas near trash.
Cinnamon is associated with cinnamaldehyde, a compound responsible for part of its characteristic aroma. Studies by the United States National Library of Medicine () on natural repellents indicate that cinnamon essential oil can have a repellent effect on some species of ants, although this type of solution should be seen as a temporary barrier and not as a guarantee of eliminating an infestation.
Spraying before ants enter can make a difference
For best results, the mixture should be used preventively, before noticing a large circulation of ants inside the home. Spraying walk-through areas, outdoor access doors and open windows can help create an aromatic barrier that makes it difficult for these insects to navigate.
You can also place cinnamon sticks in closets, pantries, or corners where you often see ants. Another option is to sprinkle small amounts of ground cinnamon near visible trails, being careful to avoid damp surfaces, areas accessible to pets and places where it could stain more sensitive materials.
Vinegar and water help erase ant trails
In addition to cinnamon, a mild solution of vinegar and water can be used to clean the trails left by ants. These insects follow chemical signals left by other members of the colony, so cleaning countertops, baseboards and walkways can help temporarily interrupt that path.
This cleaning should be done mainly in kitchens, pantries and areas where there are sweet foods, grease, food remains or open packaging. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends removing sources of food, water and shelter, storing food in tightly sealed containers, and keeping trash covered and taken out regularly.
Cleanliness and well-stored food are the first defense
If ants find crumbs, sugar, honey, ripe fruit or leftover animal food, they are likely to return to the same place. Therefore, cleaning countertops, washing recyclable containers before storing them and avoiding leaving food exposed overnight are simple measures that reduce attraction indoors.
It is also important to check small gaps near doors, windows, pipes and baseboards. Whenever possible, these points should be sealed, as ants can enter through very small openings.
Pay attention to branches, vases and humidity near the house
Outside, tree branches or bushes leaning against the house can act as a bridge for ants to reach windows and porches. Keeping vegetation away from walls, removing accumulated leaves and avoiding wood or debris near the house are measures that help reduce the likelihood of entry.
The EPA reminds us that moisture can also attract pests, so it’s a good idea to fix small leaks, avoid standing water in planter dishes, and keep trash areas clean. These measures will not eliminate all ants, but they will make the home less attractive and reduce the need to resort to more aggressive solutions.
Ant infestation may require specialized support
The EPA recommends that prevention be the first option and warns of basic precautions, such as not using external products indoors, not transferring pesticides to other containers and keeping children and animals away from treated areas. If the problem persists or there is a significant infestation, it may be necessary to call in a specialized company.
ASAE also recalls that effective pest control depends on rapid detection, identification of species and knowledge of their life cycle. Therefore, natural solutions, such as cinnamon, vinegar and regular cleaning, can be useful at an initial stage, but they must be accompanied by prevention measures and, when necessary, adequate technical support.
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