Flying ants are a common sight across the UK in July, but a simple kitchen item could help to stop them invading your home. Spraying it in the garden could make a big differenceKatie-Ann Gupwell13:38, 08 Jul 2026Updated 13:38, 08 Jul 2026Flying ants tend to become increasingly prevalent at this time of year, as the warmer temperatures draw them towards our homes. However, you may not be aware that you can prevent them from taking over your property by placing a simple kitchen staple in the garden.‌The bothersome insects are particularly abundant in July, which marks the peak swarming season across the UK. If you'd rather they didn't wreak havoc in your garden or home, there are some straightforward tricks you can employ to keep them at bay, using items that ants simply can't stand.‌This isn't the first time handy advice on deterring flying ants has done the rounds. Previously, another natural method was revealed to help tackle the problem.‌Instagram's Barbara Costello, better known as Brunch with Babs, swears by a completely natural approach to keeping them away, and it couldn't be easier to put into practice. All you need is two basic ingredients to pull off her clever trick.If you're already spotting flying ants making themselves at home in your garden, now is the time to act. The earlier you get on top of it, the sooner you can show the little pests the door.What do you need?Sharing her handy tip, Babs said: "DIY all natural ant deterrent. Here is a natural way to deter ants from coming inside.‌"Ant deterrent spray. Mix 1⁄2 parts vinegar with 1⁄2 parts water in a spray bottle. Spray around the doors, windows or cracks where ants are coming in."Ants hate the smell of vinegar so the mixture will deter them from entering your home. This does NOT kill the ants."Content cannot be displayed without consent‌She also pointed out that ants dislike the smell of oranges, and shared an additional solution you can whip up using the peels. This is yet another option worth trying if you're looking for an alternative approach.You may not be aware that vinegar can also help keep flying ants at bay. The powerful smell of acetic acid confuses their sense of smell, effectively masking the invisible scent trails they rely on to navigate.How to do itTo put this tip into practice, simply combine equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Apply the mixture around your windows, doors and other entry points in the garden.‌Doing so should help stop them from getting inside. Bear in mind, though, that the effect of vinegar diminishes as the smell fades over time.This means you'll need to reapply it regularly. Also, avoid spraying vinegar directly onto natural stone surfaces such as granite or marble, as the acid can cause damage.The solution won't actually kill the ants. Rather, it serves as an excellent natural deterrent, as the potent scent conceals their pheromone trails, effectively causing them to lose their bearings.Article continues belowThat's all it takes to keep these unwanted pests at a distance. However, if you suspect you're dealing with a particularly severe infestation, it's best to seek advice from a professional.