Most people have experienced the frustration and stress that comes with having to rid their property of ant infestations. Controlling the ant population within the home can seem a daunting task, however there are a number of household items that can be used to get rid of the pests without the need for a professional exterminator.
Ants are attracted to certain foods which offer an ideal environment for their colony. These include sugar, sugary liquids, honey, grease and fats. As such, these items should be kept in secure containers and areas should be routinely wiped clean to prevent ants gathering and colonizing in the home.
In the event of an infestation, an effective method of eliminating ants is to create a bait trap that combines one part sugar with one part borax. The solution is added to an open container that should be placed close to the ant paths, however away from areas that people use frequently. The borax added to the bait not only acts as an ant attractant, but also serves as a deadly poison for the insects.
Other strategies can also be used to drive away ant colonies. Sprinkling cayenne pepper or black pepper along ant trails can prove to be effective as the spices cause ants to become disorientated and scatter. Ground coffee is also a good solution for repelling ants, as is lemon juice. As an additional measure, vinegar can also be added to ant nests as the strong smell confuses and discourages the insects.
Natural alternatives can also be used to combat ants in the home. Citrus-based household cleaners are usually effective at eliminating infestations, made even more powerful when they contain natural oils such as eucalyptus and mint. Similarly, essential oils such as tea tree and lavender can be spritzed around the affected area and serve as a natural barrier against ants.
Diatomaceous earth is another weapon in the fight against ants. This natural product is made up of crushed up algae and is available over the counter. It is an organic, non-toxic option for eliminating infestations and works by absorbing the waxy layer of an ant’s cuticle, causing them to dehydrate and die.
Finally, baiting is a sound approach for eliminating ant colonies. This is done by placing boric acid in areas of high ant activity. The acid functions much the same as the sugar and borax bait, however it is slightly more toxic and the containers should be located out of reach of children and pets. The acid is carried back to the nest and over time, the entire colony is eliminated.
Combating Ants Outdoors
Ant activity does not only take place indoors, however, as they have an affinity for the outdoors too. As such, it is important to create an ant-proof environment around any outdoor areas. Regularly check the outside of the house and surrounding land for ant activity and evidence of nests. This includes clearing away any debris and storing items securely to discourage the colonization of ants.
An effective option for controlling ant activity outdoors is the use of an ant repellent. These products come in the form of sprays, granules and dust and can often contain natural ingredients such as mint oil and citrus peel extract, that react with the ants’ antennal glands, causing a repulsive reaction. Additionally, plants and flowers such as mint, marigold and chrysanthemum can be planted around the garden to naturally repel the insects.
An easy way to create an ant barrier is to spray a mixture of water and liquid soap around the house and any other areas prone to ant activity. If a more natural approach is preferred, cinnamon and cloves can also be used as a deterrent. Sprinkling these spices around ant trails and nests is an effective method for discouraging the insects from returning.
In addition to controlling the ant population, further preventative measures should be taken to protect the property from further infestations. Seal any cracks in walls and windows and pay particular attention to any entry points for power and cable lines, as these are primary locations for ants searching for food.
Prevention and Maintenance
Storing food away in secure environments is essential for preventing ant infestations. All food products should be sealed tightly in containers and any scraps should be disposed of immediately. In order to discourage them from returning, the area should be thoroughly cleaned too, as ants are drawn to leftover fragments of food.
In the case of an outside garden, an effective method for controlling ant activity is to create a vacant space around the garden. This entails ensuring that the grass is mowed regularly and the areas are kept dry and clear of clutter, as cramped and wet areas attract ants. Surrounding the area with a beach of crushed gravel or stone can also help to ward them off.
Ants often establish themselves along pathways and driveways too, so it is important to create a barrier in these areas by cutting back branches and overhanging shrubs. Furthermore, regularly sweeping the paths and driveways will remove any traces of food that could be attracting the pests.
Exclusion
A vital step in eliminating ant activity is to reduce the food supply in the home. As such, food waste should be disposed of in sealed bags and any animal food should be kept in secure containers. In addition, seal any holes in walls and foundations and block crevices and gaps around windows, as these are prime locations for ants to establish nests.
To reduce the risk of ants entering the home, keep the house clean at all times and inspect walls, faucets and appliances for entry points. Ensure that all food items are stored in sealed containers and use of ant bait traps around the house to reasonate their presence. If a serious infestation occurs, it is advisable to call a professional exterminator.
Elimination
If all else fails, it is possible to utilize chemical control for ant infestations. Releasing insecticides into the nests is an effective method for eliminating the pests, however care and caution should be taken when using such products as they can be potentially hazardous. Spraying sprinkle and dust insecticides around baseboards and walls is also an effective treatment.
It is important to note, however, that insecticides rarely constitute a full solution for ant infestations. Instead, it is important to combine chemical control with prevention and maintenance strategies for the best effective result. Comprehensive ant control can be done through a combination of methods and by regularly monitoring the situation to identify strong hotspots.
Professional Control
Eliminating an ant infestation can often be a difficult and arduous task, as the pests are notorious for hiding away deep in walls and other areas of the home, far away from sight. Professional exterminators specialize in ant control, able to identify the species of ant active in the home, locate their nests and eliminate the infestation in an effective and efficient manner.
Professionals will also be able to advise homeowners regarding preventative measures and can create effective antcontrol solutions tailored to the individual property. As well as offering extermination, professionals may also provide advice on pest control and can provide advice on how to identify ants and determine the best way to eradicate them.
Additionally, an exterminator may be the best option if a homeowner is unable to identify the type of ant colony present in the home. The species of ant determines how to best approach the situation and certain chemicals may be ineffective on certain species. An exterminator will also be able to assess the extent of an infestation, allowing them to apply the general treatment method most suitable for the situation.
