Pesky ants and mites can sneak their way into any home, showing up in kitchens, pantries, and even bedrooms. While there are plenty of commercial sprays and traps available, my nana always relied on one simple household staple — toothpaste. It might sound strange, but this everyday item can actually help keep these unwelcome guests away.
Let’s explore how this unexpected trick works and how you can use it effectively in your own home.
Why Toothpaste Works
Toothpaste isn’t just for keeping your smile bright. It contains ingredients that can disrupt the scent trails and survival patterns of common pests like ants and mites. Its strong aroma, thick texture, and antibacterial properties make it surprisingly useful for home pest control.
Here’s why it’s so effective:
How Toothpaste Helps Stop Ants
Ants navigate by following invisible scent trails left by other members of their colony. Many kinds of toothpaste contain mint or menthol, which completely overwhelm these trails and throw ants off their path.
Some of the ingredients in toothpaste can also be mildly toxic to ants, encouraging them to avoid treated areas or killing them on contact. As a result, applying a thin barrier of toothpaste at entry points can help break up ant lines and discourage further infestation.
What Toothpaste Does to Mites
Mites are tiny and often hidden in bedding, carpets, or upholstery. Toothpaste’s strong scent and antibacterial qualities help repel them, while its slightly abrasive texture can damage their protective outer layer. By creating a less hospitable environment, you can make it much harder for mites to thrive.
How to Use Toothpaste for Pest Control
1. Find the problem areas. Locate where ants or mites are most active — near windows, baseboards, or bedding.
2. Pick the right toothpaste. Choose one with a strong mint scent, and avoid varieties with whitening agents or harsh chemicals if you have pets.
3. Apply carefully.
- For ants: Squeeze a thin line of toothpaste along their entry points or trails.
- For mites: Mix a small amount of toothpaste with water, then wipe it lightly over the affected surfaces using a cloth.
4. Reapply regularly. Refresh the barrier every few days or after cleaning.
5. Monitor the results. Adjust the application method and timing based on pest activity.
Safety Tips
While toothpaste is generally safe, take these precautions:
- Keep it away from small children and pets — ingestion can be harmful.
- Avoid applying it to delicate surfaces, such as polished wood, as it may leave marks.
- Always do a small patch test if you’re unsure about a surface’s reaction.
Other Natural Alternatives
If you’d like to try more home-based solutions, here are a few effective options:
- For ants: Use a vinegar-and-water spray, or sprinkle cinnamon or black pepper near entry points.
- For mites: Spray diluted essential oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, or lavender on problem areas.
- For both: Sprinkle a bit of baking soda to absorb moisture and discourage pests.
Why Natural Methods Work So Well
Using everyday household items for pest control has many advantages:
- They’re inexpensive and easy to find.
- They’re generally safer for children, pets, and the environment.
- They let you avoid harsh chemical sprays while still protecting your home.
FAQs
1. Can I use any toothpaste?
Stick with a minty toothpaste without strong whitening or bleaching agents.
2. How often should I reapply it?
Every few days or after cleaning the treated area.
3. Is it pet-safe?
Yes, as long as pets don’t lick or eat it. Choose a gentle, non-toxic brand.
Final Thoughts
My nana’s toothpaste hack might sound a bit old-fashioned, but it truly works. With just a dab of toothpaste and a little patience, you can disrupt ant trails, repel mites, and enjoy a cleaner, pest-free home — all without reaching for harsh chemicals.
Sometimes, the best solutions are hiding right in your bathroom cabinet.
