Ants are one of the most annoying household pests. They can appear suddenly, literally ‘out of nowhere,’ and within a couple of days they can be laying trails through your kitchen, bathroom, and even bedroom. Many people spend money on chemicals, traps or call in professionals. But what if we told you that an effective and safe remedy for ants is already in your kitchen?
We’re talking about cinnamon — a simple jar of fragrant spice that you probably use every day when baking, making drinks or cooking porridge. Yes, cinnamon can be your main ally in the fight against annoying insects.
Why do ants hate cinnamon?
Ants navigate using pheromones that they leave behind on their trail. These trails help other members of the colony find food and return to the anthill. Cinnamon powder has a powerful aroma that confuses their sense of smell and disrupts their navigation. As a result, the ants lose their direction, get confused, and leave.
In addition, the surface of cinnamon irritates the insects’ delicate legs, and they try to avoid contact with this spice. How to use cinnamon against ants: step-by-step instructions
1. Identify the ants’ routes
Track where the ants are coming from: through cracks in the floor, cracks in the wall, window sills or ventilation. Mark the places where they gather.
2. Sprinkle cinnamon along the routes.
Use ground cinnamon rather than sticks. Sprinkle a thin line along the ant trail, at the entrance to the house, near windows, doors, skirting boards and around the rubbish bin.
3. Use cinnamon oil (optional)
If you want to enhance the effect, add a few drops of cinnamon essential oil to water and spray the mixture in problem areas. This is especially effective for hard-to-reach places.
4. Repeat the procedure
Cinnamon loses its aroma over time, especially if the house has high humidity. Renew the powder lines every 2-3 days until the ants disappear completely.
Advantages of the method
Safety — does not contain toxic substances, safe for children and pets (when used in reasonable amounts).
Economy — unlike commercial products, cinnamon is inexpensive and often already available at home.
Aroma — unlike chemicals, cinnamon leaves a pleasant, cosy smell.
Ease of use — no special skills or equipment required.
What to look out for
The method works against scout ants and helps to interrupt the trail, but does not destroy the anthill. If the problem is widespread and the ants keep coming back, you may need to find and treat the source of the colony.
Do not sprinkle cinnamon inside appliances or on wet surfaces, as this may cause damage or clumping.
