Mum spots unusual 'dust' in her shower after a holiday - before 'gross' truth behind it is revealed

A mum was shocked to find unfamiliar 'dust' in her bathroom after returning from a five-day vacation - only to discover the crux of her problem was much more severe.

Vicki, from New South Wales, was feeling rejuvenated after her mini-break away from everyday responsibilities.

But her holiday-mode was soon cut short when she discovered a mound of ant dust in her home - indicating a dangerous infestation.

'[We've] been away from home for five days and came back to this in our bathroom,' she shared in a popular Facebook group for mums.

The photo showed a mysterious black dust on a mantle which had seemingly fallen to the ledge holding the tub, creating a small mound.

A mum was shocked to find unfamiliar 'dust' in her bathroom after returning from a five-day vacation - only to discover the crux of her problem was much more severe

'We had noticed a couple of little spots before we left, so sprayed with surface spray but it’s had no effect.'

She added, 'We have no idea what it is or how to get rid of it. It’s below the bathroom window and has fallen onto the top of the row of tiles and on the bath surround.'

Vicki ended her post by requesting help from other mums who might know more about her situation.

Comments soon came flooding in, with many pointing their fingers at two possible culprits.

'There are most likely ants in your windowsill,' said one mum.

'Get in touch with pest control immediately - there might be termites! Just check that around the window doesn't sound hollow.'

But the crowd soon agreed that the mess was probably caused by an ant colony.

'It's ant dust - there's an ant nest behind the wall.'

'I had the same happen to me last week - you need a solution that will kill the Queen otherwise they will just come back.'

Many agreed that the ant Queen would have to be killed to solve Vicki's infestation problem

Vicki's husband was put on the case to investigate and found the problem after some work.

'My husband investigated further - and he found a tiny hole in the bottom corner of the architrave around the window,' she said. 

'He watched some tiny black ants come in and out - we have bought some Ant Rid bait strips from the supermarket and have placed them near the tiny hole! Fingers crossed it works!'

She then thanked the other mums who responded to her conundrum and provided solutions. 

'Thank you to everyone who has commented and made some useful suggestions.'