Ants look and make your home feel unhygienic. Ants can carry diseases, including E. Coli, Salmonella and Listeria.
They can also damage wood in your home by tunnelling through it, causing it to gradually decay.
Dealing with ants in your home can be quite a nuisance, but here are several steps you can take to get rid of them.
How to get rid of ants in your home
1. Identify ant trails
Try to locate where the ants are coming from and the paths they're taking through your home. Then, follow their trail to find their entry points into your home. This is where you need to take action.
2. Block entry points
Seal off cracks, gaps, or crevices in your walls, floors, and foundation where ants may enter your home. Use caulk or weather stripping to close off these entry points.
3. Keep your home clean
Ants are attracted to food sources, so keep your home clean and free of crumbs, spills, and other food debris. Make sure to clean up spills promptly and store food in airtight containers.
4. Remove food sources
Ants are attracted to sweet, greasy, and protein-rich foods. Store items like sugar, honey, and cereals in sealed containers, and clean up any spills or crumbs immediately. Don't leave pet food out overnight.
5. Use natural repellents
There are several natural remedies that can help repel ants. Sprinkle cinnamon, black pepper, chili powder, or dried mint around entry points and ant trails. These substances can deter ants from entering your home.
6. Use ant bait
Ant baits are an effective way to control ant populations. Place bait traps near ant trails and entry points. The ants will take the bait back to their nest, which will eventually eliminate the entire colony.
7. Use vinegar and water
Mix a 50/50 solution of both ingredients spray it near windows, doorways and other areas ants may enter the hone.
8. Clean up outdoor areas
Trim bushes and trees away from your home to prevent ants from using them as bridges to enter your house. Keep outdoor garbage cans tightly sealed and clean up any food scraps or spills in outdoor eating areas.
8. Clean up outdoor areas
If you have a severe ant infestation that persists despite your efforts, consider contacting a pest control professional. They can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment options.