Ants are a common household nuisance, especially in warmer weather. These tiny invaders can quickly swarm kitchens and pantries in search of food, often entering through tiny cracks or gaps in doors and windows.

While many turn to store-bought ant sprays, they often contain chemicals that aren’t ideal for homes with pets or small children.

Luckily, there’s a safer and surprisingly effective solution that my nana swears by—and all it takes is two ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

The Vinegar Solution: A Natural Ant Repellent

Nana’s go-to remedy? A simple spray made from equal parts white vinegar and water.

Poured into a spray bottle and applied to areas where ants are spotted—like countertops, windowsills, and along baseboards—this mixture does wonders.

Not only does it repel ants with its strong smell, but it also destroys the scent trails left behind by scout ants, confusing the colony and making it hard for them to return.

Why It Works: Ants and Their Scent Trails

Ants rely on pheromones—chemical trails that guide other ants to food sources. The vinegar in the spray masks these trails, disrupting their communication and navigation. Plus, ants naturally dislike the sharp scent of vinegar, making it a powerful and safe deterrent.

Here’s What You’ll Need

• 1 cup of white vinegar
• 1 cup of water
• 1 clean spray bottle

Just mix the vinegar and water in the bottle, shake it up, and you’re ready to go. Clean the affected area first (removing crumbs or spills), then spray generously wherever ants appear. A daily or occasional spritz is usually enough to keep them away.

4 reasons why this method is worthy

Low Effort, High Reward

What makes this trick so appealing—aside from its effectiveness—is how simple it is. No complicated steps or pricey gear. Just a two-ingredient mix and a spray bottle. It takes just minutes to prepare and apply, perfect for anyone with a busy schedule.

The Science Behind the Smell

Vinegar contains acetic acid, the key ingredient that interferes with ants’ pheromone trails. It also doubles as a cleaning agent, meaning it not only repels ants but helps maintain a tidy home, reducing other pest attractions as well.

Eco-Friendly and Safe for Families

Unlike chemical sprays, vinegar is biodegradable, non-toxic, and safe to use around children and pets. It doesn’t pollute indoor air or leave harmful residues, making it a smart and sustainable option for pest control.

A Budget-Friendly Solution

Commercial ant repellents can get pricey, especially if you’re using them frequently. White vinegar, on the other hand, is cheap, versatile, and available almost anywhere. With this homemade remedy, you’ll save money while still keeping ants out of your home.

Plenty of others have tested this method and loved the results. Jane from Ohio said, “I was skeptical at first, but after trying this trick, I haven’t seen a single ant in my kitchen for weeks!” Mark from California called it a “game-changer” and praised how quick and effective it is.

More Natural Hacks to Try

While vinegar is a star, there are other natural options worth trying. Diatomaceous earth—a fine powder that’s harmless to people and pets but lethal to insects—is another popular choice. Essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil are also known to repel ants and can be mixed with water for a fragrant spray.

Whether you try Nana’s trick or explore other natural solutions, keeping your home pest-free doesn’t have to mean resorting to harsh chemicals.