A COMMON household item may be the easiest, and cheapest way to get rid of ants this summer.

With ant season growing closer, the solution for removing these pests will only cost pennies.

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Distilled vinegar is a common household cleaning item, often used for descaling kettles Credit: Aldi

Distilled vinegar, often used for descaling kettles, cleaning countertops and removing microwave grime, is the perfect ingredient for this task.

This natural repellants works directly against the invisible scent trails, or pheromones, that ants leave behind.

These scent trails are used to attract other ants, creating a trail they can all follow leading from their den to any food.

Given that ants hate overpowering smells, the vinegar clouds the scent trail smell, leaving ants without their senses and unable to use their antennae.

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Ants are far more active in the summer months, with the hot weather increasing their metabolism and attracting them to more food.

While the common black ants do not spread any dangerous bacteria, some species do, causing a risk of food contamination and potential illness.

Ants have a higher metabolism in summer, meaning they are more likely to search for food Credit: Getty

Distilled vinegar can be bought from as little as 35p from Aldi, compared to £3 or even higher for specialist ant killing powders.

To use, mix equal amounts of water and distilled vinegar into a spray bottle, then add any type of essential oils to the mixture, which is optional to the user, and shake.

Then, spray your solution at any entry paths to your home, including windows and doors. After a few hours, the ants can be wiped up and discarded.

This household hack should be repeated multiple times a week to see the most optimal results.