Tired Of Ants In Your Kitchen? This Bay Leaf-Salt Hack May End The Problem Forever

With the onset of summer and the rainy season, households often grapple with the menace of ant infestation. These tiny insects not only dirty kitchens but also pose a health risk by contaminating food and beverages. While chemical sprays dominate the market, experts caution that they may be unsafe, particularly in homes with children and pets. Against this backdrop, a traditional home remedy is gaining renewed attention for its safety, effectiveness and affordability. (News18 Gujarati)/caption] A simple concoction of bay leaves and salt, boiled in water and used as a spray, is being hailed as a natural solution to combat ants. According to homemakers who rely on such methods, the strong aroma of bay leaves works as a natural repellent, while salt absorbs moisture from ants’ bodies, effectively killing them. (News18 Gujarati)

The preparation is uncomplicated. Boil four to five bay leaves with one to two teaspoons of salt in water for about ten minutes, allowing the mixture to absorb both the fragrance and the properties of its ingredients. Once cooled, the liquid can be transferred into a spray bottle and applied to areas where ants are frequently spotted – kitchen sinks, cupboards, window edges, and ant trails. (News18 Gujarati)

Regular use, say household experts, is key. Spraying the solution two to three times a week is believed to control the problem substantially. Some also suggest sprinkling powdered bay leaves directly onto ant trails for stronger results. (News18 Gujarati)

The method’s appeal lies not only in its cost-effectiveness but also in its safety. Unlike chemical repellents, the bay leaf–salt spray is considered harmless for both children and pets. Bay leaves are also known for their antibacterial qualities, while salt acts as a natural insecticide. (News18 Gujarati)

However, homemakers caution that the remedy is not a substitute for good hygiene. Kitchens and cupboards must be kept clean, and food should never be left uncovered. Crumbs, sweets or spills, if unattended, can invite ant colonies back into the household. (News18 Gujarati)