Chemical-Free Ant Repellent

Bay leaves repel ants without added chemicals.

Ants enter your home looking for food. Once they invade your kitchen, getting rid of them can be a challenge. If you want to keep them out of your house, you do have chemical-free repellent options.

Repellents

Borax is a naturally occurring compound that acts as an insect repellent and killer. It will stop ants and other insects from entering your home. Sprinkle it in areas where you have seen ants. Bay leaves, like those you use in stews, repel ants without using chemicals. Place a bay leaf in cabinets to keep ants out.

Function

Borax repels ants because they do not like to walk through its powdered form. If ants do walk through borax and ingest it, it will destroy their digestive systems and kill them. Bay leaves contain a compound called cineol, which acts as a natural insect repellent.

Considerations

Borax is not toxic to mammals, but it can make pets and children sick if they eat it. Do not use borax anywhere they might encounter it. Whole bay leaves are a choking hazard in food and can cause throat injuries if a dog or child tries to eat them.

References

• "The Herbalist in the Kitchen"; Gary Allen; 2007
• "Vinegar, Duct Tape, Milk Jugs & More: 1,001 Ingenious Ways to Use Common Household Items"; Earl Proulx; 2004