As summer heats up across the UK, ants are making an unwelcome return to home, and in record numbers. New figures show pest control services responded to more than 291,000 infested homes in 2024, a 3% rise from the year before. That’s the equivalent of one home being treated every two minutes.
While many frustrated homeowners reach for quick DIY remedies like white vinegar or lemon juice and water to deter the persistent insects, experts warn these won’t do much beyond confusing their trail. “Acidic solutions like lemon juice and vinegar will mask or destroy ant pheromone trails,” said London pest control expert Tony King, owner of The Pied Piper.
“But they won’t eliminate the colony, especially when it’s hidden under floorboards or inside walls.”
In collaboration with waste removal firm Clear It Waste, King shared one easy home remedy that he says is far more effective, and capable of wiping out entire indoor colonies if used correctly.
“The best home remedy I’ve found is a combination of borax substitute and sugar,” he said.
“Mix half a cup of sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of borax substitute, and place small drops of the mixture onto wax paper or inside bottle caps. Then place them near entry points where ants are coming in.”
While sugar attracts the ants, the borax substitute poisons them slowly, allowing time for the toxic bait to be carried back to the nest and shared with the colony.
“It’s not an instant solution,” King added, “but over time, with regular replacement, I’ve seen this method completely clear up infestations.”
However, he warned the method should be used cautiously and should be kept out reach of pets and children, as borax can be harmful if ingested.
Ant infestations spike in warmer months as homes offer shelter, crumbs, and moisture. While natural deterrents like citrus and vinegar may help disrupt trails, experts stress that eliminating ants at the source is the only way to prevent their return.
So if you’ve spotted a marching line across your kitchen worktop, it might be time to skip the lemon spray, and reach for the sugar and borax.
