Big black ants can be a nuisance in your home. They crawl all over your food and kitchen counters, and can even bite you. Fortunately, there are many home remedies you can use to get rid of big black ants. In this article, we will discuss some of the most effective ways to get rid of big black ants using home remedies.
Why Do You Have Big Black Ants in Your Home?
Before we discuss how to get rid of big black ants home remedies, it’s important to understand why you have them in your home. Big black ants are attracted to food and moisture. If you have crumbs or spills on your kitchen counters or floor, big black ants will come to your home. They also like to nest in damp areas, such as under sinks, in bathrooms, and in basements.
How to Get Rid of Big Black Ants Home Remedies
Here are some effective home remedies for getting rid of big black ants:
1. Borax and Sugar
Mix equal parts of borax and sugar and place the mixture in a shallow dish. The sugar will attract the ants, and the borax will kill them. Place the dish in areas where you see the ants.
2. Vinegar
Mix equal parts of vinegar and water and spray the solution on areas where you see the ants. The strong smell of the vinegar will deter the ants from coming back.
3. Cinnamon
Sprinkle cinnamon powder in areas where you see the ants. The ants will not cross the cinnamon barrier as they hate the smell.
4. Lemon Juice
Squeeze some lemon juice on areas where you see the ants. The strong smell of the lemon juice will deter the ants from coming back.
5. Peppermint Oil
Soak a cotton ball in peppermint oil and place it in areas where you see the ants. The strong smell of the peppermint oil will deter the ants from coming back.
6. Diatomaceous Earth
Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in areas where you see the ants. Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that is safe for humans and pets, but deadly for ants.
7. Chalk
Draw a line of chalk in areas where you see the ants. The ants will not cross the chalk line as they hate the texture.
8. Bay Leaves
Place bay leaves in areas where you see the ants. The strong smell of the bay leaves will deter the ants from coming back.
9. Baking Soda and Powdered Sugar
Mix equal parts of baking soda and powdered sugar and place the mixture in a shallow dish. The sugar will attract the ants, and the baking soda will kill them.
10. Boiling Water
Boil some water and pour it over ant hills and nests. The hot water will kill the ants and destroy the nest.
11. Essential Oils
There are many essential oils that repel ants, such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water and spray the solution on areas where you see the ants.
12. Cornmeal
Sprinkle cornmeal in areas where you see the ants. The ants will eat the cornmeal, but they cannot digest it, which will kill them.
FAQs About How to Get Rid of Big Black Ants Home Remedies
Q: Are home remedies safe for pets?
A: Most home remedies are safe for pets. However, some remedies, such as borax and diatomaceous earth, can be harmful to pets if ingested. Keep pets away from areas where you apply these remedies.
Q: How long does it take for home remedies to work?
A: Home remedies may take a few days to work, depending on the size of the ant infestation. Be patient, and continue to apply the remedies until the ants are gone.
Q: How can I prevent ants from coming back?
A: To prevent ants from coming back, keep your home clean and dry. Clean up spills and crumbs immediately, and fix any leaks or moisture problems in your home. Seal cracks and gaps in your home to prevent ants from entering.
Conclusion
Big black ants can be a nuisance in your home, but there are many home remedies you can use to get rid of them. Borax and sugar, vinegar, cinnamon, lemon juice, peppermint oil, diatomaceous earth, chalk, bay leaves, baking soda and powdered sugar, boiling water, essential oils, and cornmeal are all effective remedies for getting rid of big black ants. Use these remedies, and prevent ants from coming back by keeping your home clean and dry.