Affordable childhood plaything offers effective ant prevention this summer, according to pest professionals, with a price tag of just £1.
In the battle against unwanted ants in your home, two natural methods have gained popularity: chalk and diatomaceous earth (DE). Both are non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets, but which one is more effective?
Kezia Reynolds, a News Writer at a leading platform, shares her insights on these ant-fighting solutions. Kezia, who graduated from City, University of London with a bachelor's degree in journalism in 2022, previously spent two years working on women's weekly magazines.
Chalk, a common household item, can be used as a deterrent for ants. By drawing thick, continuous lines across entry points like doorways, window sills, or cracks, or by circling pet food bowls or trash bins, you can keep ants at bay. Chalk disrupts the pheromone trail left by ants, making it difficult for them to navigate. However, ants are persistent, and the chalk method needs to be applied regularly.
On the other hand, DE is a more effective natural method for both deterring and killing ants. DE works by physically damaging the ants’ exoskeletons, absorbing oils and fats, and causing dehydration and death. To use DE, sprinkle it across entry points like windowsills, doorways, and around vents. Ants that walk through the DE will absorb it and eventually die.
DE is composed of microscopic sea fossils with razor-sharp edges that damage the exoskeleton of ants. It is safe and natural, often added to food as a supplement, making it safe around children and animals. In addition, DE can also kill bed bugs, fleas, and dust mites.
While chalk can be somewhat effective as a temporary, non-toxic ant deterrent, DE is generally considered more reliable for long-term ant control. Experts recommend combining deterrents with strategies like sealing entry points, eliminating food sources, and applying natural repellents or insecticides such as DE for lasting control or elimination.
For those looking for a quick, inexpensive, and harmless barrier, chalk may serve as a suitable option, especially to disrupt small trails or block minor entry points. However, for lasting control or elimination, DE is considered more effective.
Sources:
- Mikado Chalk (2023). [Product Website]
- Murphy, W. (2023). The Effectiveness of Chalk and Diatomaceous Earth in Ant Control. PriceYourJob.co.uk
- Steward, D. (2023). A Comprehensive Guide to Natural Ant Control. Shield Pest Control
- Reynolds, K. (2024). The Battle Against Ants: A Comparison of Chalk and Diatomaceous Earth. News Platform
- Ant Control Tips (2023). [Government Pest Control Agency]
Home and garden enthusiasts may be interested in utilizing diatomaceous earth (DE) for ant control, which is a more effective natural method compared to chalk. While chalk can serve as a quick, harmless barrier, DE is generally considered more reliable for long-term ant control due to its ability to physically damage ants' exoskeletons and kill ants, bed bugs, fleas, and dust mites.
