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Ants can be considered true household pests. Appearing on tables, in sinks, and even inside electronic devices like microwaves, these insects make it impossible to store anything containing sugar outside the refrigerator.
The appearance of ants in homes is possible because the species, common in urban centers, is omnivorous and feeds on sugars and proteins.
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If you're dealing with this problem but don't like the idea of using insecticides to combat ants, the list below is made up of household products that can help eradicate them.
1. Cloves and cinnamon
Fill a small jar with cloves and cinnamon and place it in a corner of the room where insects frequent. According to Ana Eugênia Campos, a researcher at the Biological Institute of São Paulo, the essential oils found in cloves repel ants, but don't kill them. The same goes for cinnamon. The jar's contents should be changed every two weeks to maintain the scent and effectiveness.
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2. Lemon and orange peels
If ants are in your sugar bowl, one way to combat them is to place a piece of lemon or orange peel inside it.
3. Detergent
In a 200ml glass, mix half and half with water and detergent. Transfer the contents to a spray bottle and spray in nooks, crannies, and other spaces where ants may have nested.
4. Vinegar
Spray white vinegar on the kitchen floor to prevent ants from appearing. This should be done after cleaning the area. Properly sanitizing your home is one of the best ways to get rid of ants.
5. Lemon juice
Lemon juice should be spread along the edges of windows and doors exposed to the outdoors. The scent of the fruit will disturb insects and keep them away.
6. Pepper and coffee grounds
After applying the water and detergent mixture, cover the holes with cayenne pepper. However, if you have pets or children at home, opt for coffee grounds. This will eliminate the risk of children and animals trying to lick or sniff the pepper.
7. Vaseline
For containers that are kept outside the refrigerator, such as fruit bowls and pet food, it is worth applying a small amount of petroleum jelly.
8. Peppermint oil
Spray peppermint oil along the path ants make around the sink. The same can be done around the inside of windows and doors.
Note: For these methods to work, the most important thing is to always keep your home clean. Don't leave food scraps or dishes in the sink, and keep trash can lids closed.
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