Rats can be a big problem in the UK, particularly during the winter months, but there’s a simple spice that can help deter them from entering your home. You just need to place it in the garden
12:55, 13 Feb 2026Updated 12:55, 13 Feb 2026
You can stop rats from entering your home (stock image)(Image: Manuel ROMARIS via Getty Images)
The thought of rodents scurrying about your house is enough to make anyone’s skin crawl but, come winter, these unwelcome guests are on the hunt for warmth and food, and February’s chill makes homes prime targets. If you’ve clocked signs of the critters lurking in your outdoor space, there’s a brilliantly straightforward solution that’ll send them packing.
All you need is something you’ve probably already got tucked away in your kitchen cupboard, and it’s advice that’s definitely worth heeding. This isn’t the first time a humble spice has been touted as a rat-busting wonder either. Not long ago, another everyday ingredient was flagged up as a potential pest deterrent.
Babs, who commands a whopping following of over 3million on Instagram under the handle Brunch With Babs, shared her wisdom: “What is the one thing in your spice cabinet that can keep you bug and rodent free? Yes! Cinnamon.
“Cinnamon naturally contains eugenol, an aromatic compound commonly found in traditional insect repellents.” It’s equally effective at keeping unwanted rodents, including rats, at bay.
The response to Babs’ handy hints has been overwhelming, with hundreds flocking to comment beneath her video. One enthusiastic follower gushed: “Love you Babs! I saw this video forever ago, and I just searched for it to start using the hacks.”
Someone else chimed in with: “Thanks for sharing.” While a third person contributed: “Also great for keeping ants away! Stick a cinnamon soaked paper towel ball where the ants are coming from and they’re gone!”
Meanwhile, a fourth person also shared their experience: “I pour cinnamon everywhere after learning this randomly seven years ago.”
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Cinnamon can prove effective in deterring numerous pests, including rats. The rodents are repelled by its potent aroma, particularly the compound cinnamaldehyde, which overwhelms their highly sensitive noses.
It functions as a natural deterrent, especially when applied as essential oil on cotton wool or scattered in areas where activity has been spotted. That said, it’s important to recognise this isn’t a permanent fix, as rats may eventually adapt to the scent, meaning it should be combined with other hygiene and prevention measures.
How to do it
There are several methods for using cinnamon to prevent rats entering your property. One approach involves soaking cotton wool in cinnamon essential oil and positioning them along skirting boards, beneath sinks or near suspected entry points in outdoor spaces.
The scent will diminish over time, so you’ll need to reapply every few days. Alternatively, you could distribute generous quantities of ground cinnamon in locations with confirmed rodent presence.
For a more subtle method, you could create a DIY spray by combining cinnamon oil, water and a carrier substance (such as a small amount of washing-up liquid or oil), then spray it around doorways, windows and concealed corners.
For optimal results, the aroma needs to be both powerful and persistent. However, if you’re dealing with a substantial infestation, this method is unlikely to be sufficient.
If you suspect you’ve got a rat infestation, it’s essential to contact a pest control professional. They’ll provide expert guidance on the most effective way to resolve the problem.
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