Background Information
Ants are considered to be one of the most successful organisms on the planet due to their capacity to survive almost any environment. They are social insects and found almost everywhere. Ants create nests and have a highly organized structure in their society. When they invade your house, they bring more than 30,000 friends with them. Therefore, it is essential to learn how to get rid of them quickly, without poisoning yourself or your family.
Understanding Ant Behavior
Ants are attracted to certain smells. Sweet fragrances, greasy and sticky spills, unswept mess, and any kind of crumbs can lure the ants. To keep the ants away, remove anything that they might want to feed on. If you have children, discuss with them the importance of putting away snacks, avoiding messy spills, and eating at the dining table. Clean up after yourself and don’t leave food in the open.
Create Barriers
To prevent re-entry, create a physical barrier around your house. Spread a generous amount of baby powder, cinnamon, coffee grounds or other spices around the doors and windows. You can also use a solution of equal parts of vinegar and water to spray on the threshold and other areas that the ants could cross.
Keep The House Clean
Keep your house clean, especially the kitchen and areas where you eat. Wipe down counters, cupboards, and floors after use. Use an all-purpose cleaner solution on surfaces that have come in contact with food. This will eliminate any food smells and residue that the ants are attracted to.
Remove Nests Outside
The best way to get rid of the ants is to remove their nests. If the ants have built a nest outside, use a garden hose and spray it directly into the nest. You can also use a chemical pesticide or an organic one, depending on the type of ants and the size of the nest. A pest specialist can advise on the best product to use.
Baits and Traps
If the nest is too large or can’t be reached, use a bait and trap to catch the ants. Boric acid mixed with sugar and water can be used as a bait and placed inside the trap. If you don’t have boric acid, you can use a mixture of equal parts of sugar, corn syrup, and water.
Call An Expert
If you need additional help to get rid of the ants, call a pest control expert for advice. A professional will have the expertise and experience to determine the best way to get rid of the ants from your house.
Natural Remedies
If you’re looking for a natural approach to aid in getting rid of the ants, not to worry, there are many options. Place citrus peels, clove, peppermint, or eucalyptus oil near the places where the ants enter your home. These smell will help keep the ants away without you having to resort to chemicals.
Prevention
The best way to get rid of ants is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Seal off small cracks and crevices in and around your windows and doors. Trim shrubs away from your house and keep your yard clean and tidy.
Conclusion
Getting rid of ants is not easy, but it is possible. With the right approach and the right techniques, you can get rid of them quickly and without using any chemicals or poisons. Begin by understanding the behavior of the ants and removing their source of food. If needed, use baits and traps, create a physical barrier, or eliminate the nests outside your home. Prevention is always better than cure, so make sure to keep your home and yard clean and tidy.
