Can Vinegar Prevent Ants?
WouterUsing vinegar as a preventative measure against ants can be effective, though not always. The effectiveness of the solution depends on the concentration of the vinegar, the type of ant, and the amount you use.
The vinegar-water mixture should be applied in your kitchen, food storage drawers, and other areas that ants often enter. You can also use it outside of your home, treating crevices and other areas where spiders and other pests often enter.
If you don’t like the smell of vinegar, you can also mix some essential oils with water to create an ant repellent. Some people have success with Ylang-Ylang essential oil. You can also mix it with hydrogen peroxide for a stronger repellent. This method is safe for your family and pets, and it also works well to get rid of ants.
If you have a big ant problem, you may need a more concentrated vinegar solution. It may take a few days for the vinegar to work, though it should eventually kill the ants. You may need to repeat the process several times a week.
Apple cider vinegar is a stronger ant repellent than white vinegar. It works well on linoleum flooring, but it’s not recommended for tiles or other surfaces that are easily soiled. Using vinegar for ants should also be avoided around children and pets, because it can be irritating.
The vinegar-water solution also works well for outdoor plants that have a high number of ants. If you have a plant that’s sensitive to acidic sprays, you may want to try using soaked cotton balls instead. The cotton balls will act as a physical barrier and repel the ants.
