If you’re tired of ants ruining your summer events, or infesting your home, then you’ve probably tried all the hacks under the sun. And if one hasn’t been working for you, an expert has explained why.

Whilst baking powder should be an effective way to kill off ants, there is a clear issue, as on its own it will not attract all the ants or, more importantly, be taken back to the nest – which is why ants seemingly never disappear.

According to Simon Wardle, Patio and Decking expert at Armstrong Cheshire : “Many nests are hidden under paved patios, in cracks of decking, or in hard to reach places. So you need to find a way to get the poison to their nests, to kill off the entire colony. My solution is to mix baking powder and sugar – which have similar look and texture – to attract the ants and then finish off the nest.”

This solution works because ants are drawn to sweet substances like icing sugar and once they take the sugary treat back to the nest, the whole colony will consume the baking powder, which will kill them.

Simon said: “Making this DIY deterrent is a piece of cake. Start by combining baking soda and icing sugar, half and half, in a small bowl, ensuring they’re thoroughly mixed. Sprinkle decent amounts along ant trails, near entry points, and over patios and decking.

Be Patient – It might take a few days for the ant population to significantly decrease. Keep topping up when the levels of the mixture go down.”

How to prevent ants living in your home

• Clean Up: Regularly clean up crumbs and spills to discourage ants from visiting your kitchen in the first place.
• Seal Entry Points: Find and seal any cracks in your patio or crevices where ants might be entering your home.
• Outdoor Prevention: If ants are coming in from outside, consider creating a barrier of baking soda and sugar around your decking or patio.