Ants are social insects that live in colonies. If you found one single ant in your home, chances are, there is probably thousands more. Once an infestation set in, killing these ants will be an overwhelming, challenging task not only due to their sheer numbers, but also their survival skills. When disturbed, these ants will quickly relocate to a safer place, leaving their old nest behind. As such, one needs to approach the issue with proper and effective ants pest control methods, lest it gets out of control.
If you wish to get rid of ants and ensure they wouldn’t be a persisting issue, the following 5 tips will be of great assistance.
Tip #1: Cut Their Access To Possible Hiding Spots
In order to eliminate an ants infestation effectively, it is imperative that you check all common hiding spots of a possible nest. They can be foundation gaps, clutters in the bedrooms, behind the kitchen cabinets or even wall cracks! You’ll then want to ensure that you cut off their access to such areas; for instance, cleaning your messy room or applying wall putty on these cracks. Doing so will ensure that they will have little to no room to build a colony and possibly infest your home.
Tip #2: Drop Natural Pesticides In Your Potted Plants
As with any types of insects, ants too are attracted plants for a variety of reasons. Whilst they don’t necessarily eat houseplants per se, they are naturally drawn to the sweet fragrances that flowers often emit. Besides, flowers and plants often retain moisture, making for an excellent coveted source of moisture.
In order to protect your home and your plants’ health and lifespan, you’ll want to drop a few drops of natural pesticides in your potted plants. For instance, peppermint is a natural insect repellent that does an excellent job at keeping ants away. Mix 10 drops of peppermint oil with 2 cups of water, before spraying in on your plant. You can also use this natural mixture for other parts of your home.
Tip #3: Remove Food Sources
As with most pests, ants are attracted to foods mainly because they serve as a form of nourishment. Surprisingly, they are finicky about the food they like and dislike and would sometimes even change their preferences! As with most of us, sweet foods are their favourites.
In order to stop their numbers from growing, you’ll want to get rid of their source of nutrition. Keep all leftovers and other types of foods in airtight containers. If you have dirty plates and utensils, always make sure to wash them after use. If you have a pet, be sure to clean their food bowls regularly as leftovers can serve as a lavish party for these insects.
Tip #4: Remove Water Sources
Like all living things, ants need sufficient water to survive. Not only do they drink to quench their thirst, but they also bring it back to their colony to store for future use. As such, whenever they do find a water source, they’d leave a scent trail to attract the rest of the colony.
As such, you’ll want to remove potential water sources and cover all sorts of leakages. You can also open a window or run a fan in the bathroom can help to prevent the buildup of excess moisture.
Tip #5: Engaging With A Professional
Who better to rid these pesky pests if not for the experts? Equipped with experience and knowledge in pest control, they’ll be able to eliminate ant infestation and ensure they don’t return.
As such, get help from a professional pest specialist to inspect your house at least once a year as they provide fumigation and cleaning services. Even if you think your home is pest‐free, a pest control expert with the required tools and expertise will be able to easily identify hidden ants that are lurking around in your home.
With these 5 simple yet useful tips, you can help prevent and rid any ant infestations in your home. Don’t hesitate to pull out all the stops to protect your home from these pests.
