Overview
Ants in the kitchen can be a real nuisance. They do not usually cause physical harm, but they can be a frustrating hassle to deal with. Not only are clean up and maintenance of kitchen surfaces time consuming, but ants can also contaminate food. This article provides an overview of the most effective ways to get rid of ants in the kitchen.
Identification
Before getting rid of ants, it is important to identify exactly what type of ant has invaded the kitchen. Knowing the type of ant can help determine the best method to use for elimination. All ants belong to the same species, but there are several different species, each with different behaviors and preferences. Common kitchen ants include the black ants, carpenter ants, and fire ants.
The black ant is the most common and is small (1/10 inch long), black and shiny. Carpenter ants are larger and have reddish-brown bodies. They build tunnels and galleries in wood for nesting. Fire ants are one of the most bothersome types, as their sting can cause irritation and other reactions.
Prevention
One of the best ways to deal with kitchen ants is prevention. Before attempting to get rid of ants in the kitchen, look for potential sources of food. Ants obviously need food, and eliminating sources of food can help to prevent an ant infestation. Clean up crumbs and spills immediately, and properly store food in tightly sealed containers, such as glass jars and sealed plastic bags. Make sure lids are tightly sealed, and all food is labeled and dated.
It is also important to keep the kitchen area clean. Regularly vacuum and mop floors, and wipe down counters, shelves, and cabinets. Clean and store dishes and cookware as soon as possible to prevent ants from having easy access to left-over food or drinks.
DIY Traps
DIY traps can be a great way to quickly and effectively get rid of ants in the kitchen. One of the most common DIY traps is a mixture of borax, sugar, and water, which can be placed in an empty jar or a cup and placed in areas where ants can easily access the mixture. The sugar will attract the ants, and the borax will slowly poison them.
Another popular DIY trap is to combine equal parts of flour and sugar with a few drops of dish soap. Fill a cup with this mixture, and add a few drops of water and stir. Place the mixture in areas where ants can be seen and let it sit overnight. The combination of flour, sugar, and water works to draw the ants in, while the dish soap serves as a trap to keep them in the mixture.
Natural Repellent
A natural approach can also work to stop an ant infestation in the kitchen. Sprinkle black pepper or cinnamon in areas where ants can be seen and around entry points to the kitchen. The smell of the spices will keep the ants away and make it difficult for them to find food. Another natural repellent is to mix equal parts of vinegar, water, and lemon juice in a spray bottle and spray the mixture around the kitchen. The citrus scent will repel the ants, and the vinegar will help keep them away.
Keeping the kitchen clean and tidy is also essential for natural repellents to be effective. Ants may be attracted to the smells of food that is left out, so make sure to clean and properly store any food as soon as it is cooked.
Professional Solutions
Another way to get rid of ants in the kitchen is to call a professional pest control company. A professional pest control technician can provide a more effective solution and more thorough cleaning than a DIY approach. Professional exterminators can identify the ant species and the areas of infestation, and they can use the most effective and safe products to kill the ants and prevent them from returning.
When hiring a professional pest control company, it is important to research the company and its services. Look for reviews from other customers, and make sure the company is certified and licensed by the state in which it operates.
Baits
Baits are an effective way to get rid of ants in the kitchen. Simply put, baits consist of food or other attractive substances that attract ants, and an insecticide or other toxic substance that will kill them. Baits come in various forms, from liquid mixtures to gels, grains, and pellets.
Baits can be placed in areas where ants can easily access them, such as near entry points or along walls and baseboards. Once the ants come to eat the bait, they will also be exposed to the toxic substance which will eventually kill them. However, it is important to note that baits can be dangerous and should be handled with care.
Conclusion
Getting rid of kitchen ants can be a difficult task, but with the right approach it can be done. It is important to first identify the ant species and then use the most effective method to eliminate the ants. Prevention is key, as eliminating sources of food and keeping the kitchen area clean can protect against ant infestations. DIY traps, natural repellents, professional solutions, and baits can all be used to get rid of ants in the kitchen.
