Ways To Get Rid Of And Prevent Ant Infestations

Is your home ridden with ants? Making it hard for your kids to play comfortably on the floor again, and you've cleaned the house from top to bottom on several occasions hoping it would fix the issue, but that didn't stop them. Does that mean they've become your lifetime neighbor?

Ants are common social insects with varying capabilities and different types. Understand that there are several reasons why they keep visiting you. But, there's a high chance that they are searching for food. 

One prominent trait of the insect is that they always travel in packs. So, when one enters, others find their way. Your frustration is understandable, but you're not left without options. Listed below are ways to help you keep them out and prevent infestations.

1. Verify They're Ants 

Of course, you know ants when you see them, but the inability to verify the insect's identity can pose a significant problem to homeowners. Why? Because it's easy to confuse ants with termites, they're almost different. Here's how you can tell the difference between them: termites have thicker waits with shorter legs and straight antenna, which is the opposite for ants. 

Ants come in a variety of sizes but have a bent antenna. The carpenter ants are significantly more giant than other species, which makes it easier to identify them. If you're going to know how to get rid of carpenter ants, you need to be sure it's ants you're dealing with and not something else. Even if you intend to hire the services of an exterminator, they still need to determine that to know the most effective method to handle the situation.

2. Bait Traps

Bait traps are the most popular and easy-to-use methods you can use to rid your house of infestation. They are very effective indoors, making it possible for you to wipe out an entire colony of ants within a brief period.

To use bait traps, you would have to attract the insects by whatever means necessary. Also, be sure to use protein-based bait traps and places near your drains, cabinets, and under appliances. Try as much as possible to avoid placing them on any trail. Don't forget to check back and replace them often. After eliminating them, clean the path. 

3. Ant Sprays

Ant sprays can be used to prevent infestations, either alone or together with the bait. Places to use sprays are windows and door frames. 

If you can't get your hands on chemical spray, you can repel them with soapy water. Fill a spray bottle with one capful of liquid hand soap and water. Shake well, spray directly on ants.

4. Use Spices, Herbs, or Lemon

You undoubtedly didn't see this coming. Spices for ants? Yes, it is possible. Ants don't sit well with certain smells as it's repelling them. Put some ground cinnamon around trail areas. 

Lemon has also been known to be a secret weapon to fight against anything. Take some extract mixed with some cups of warm water and wipe the trails or surface using it.

5. Dry/Wet Diatomaceous Earth

Avoid ant infestations in corners like edges of the kitchen or tiny cracks in the walls, apply dry diatomaceous earth to such areas, and wet ground if the ants are crawling across more extensive and flat areas. 

After ridding the house of insects, remember to seal potential pathways and open cracks that may become a potential gateway for ants. You don't have to spray them if they're outdoors; they're an essential part of the ecosystem as they help.