Those Pesky Ants!

This is the third spring we've lived in our home and the third spring that we've been invaded by ants in the kitchen.

The first year, we wound up spraying chemicals in the kitchen because we did not know what else to do.

I am very uncomfortable doing that, because of the toxic fumes that are harmful to humans and our three kitties...and I just don't like having that stuff in the kitchen.

It did get rid of them for awhile and then they came back.

We tried vinegar and it did not work.

Last year we pretty much tolerated it, because there weren't very many, maybe because of the heat and drought? who knows...

But this year, they're out in full force, so I researched some natural remedies on the Internet.

I think I will try the jelly/borax mix first since I have both on hand and it's easier than the molasses paste.

Have you had any success with getting rid of household pests the natural way? If so, please post about it!

If not, check out this link:

http://http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/47674/get_rid_of_ants.html

More on Being Green and Clean

Last week I posted about using vinegar and water in a spray bottle to clean the bathroom mirrors and marble countertops and how well it worked...

Although it was my first experience using vinegar, I've been using borax to clean sinks, tubs, and toilets for years, with great results.

Baking soda also is a good, natural cleaner.

I also did not know vinegar works as a copper cleaner until I found the following formula on the internet:


Copper cleaner
White vinegar
Water
Salt
Mix equal parts of vinegar and salt (a tablespoon of each should be enough to start, make more as necessary) and apply to the surface with a rag. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with water afterwards, otherwise it will corrode. Don't use on lacquered finishes.

I'm eager to try it, because I don't like using chemical-based copper cleaners due to the fumes and their impact on my respiratory system.

How about you?

Have you tried any green, natural cleaners like baking soda, lemon, and/or vinegar? What were the results?

If not, do you think you'll try some of them in the future? Why or why not?