Small ants can be a nuisance in your house, especially when they start to invade your kitchen and pantry. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also contaminate your food. Here are some effective ways to get rid of small ants in house.
Identify the Ants
Before you can get rid of small ants in house, you need to know what type of ants you are dealing with. Different species of ants have different habits and preferences, and therefore require different treatment methods. Some common types of small ants that invade houses include:
- Pavement ants
- Odorous house ants
- Little black ants
- Pharaoh ants
Find the Ant Trails
Small ants usually form trails when they are foraging for food. These trails can help you locate their entry points and nesting areas. Look for trails along baseboards, windowsills, and countertops. Once you have identified the trails, you can use them to target your treatment.
Eliminate Food Sources
Small ants are attracted to sugary and greasy foods. To get rid of small ants in house, you need to eliminate their food sources. Store your food in airtight containers and clean up any spills or crumbs immediately. Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight and wipe down your countertops regularly.
Seal Entry Points
Small ants can enter your house through tiny cracks and crevices. Seal off their entry points with caulk or weatherstripping. Check your doors, windows, and foundation for any gaps or holes where ants can get in.
Use Natural Remedies
If you prefer to use natural remedies to get rid of small ants in house, there are several options available. Some effective natural remedies include:
- Peppermint oil
- Vinegar
- Borax
- Diatomaceous earth
- Cinnamon
Use Baits
Baits can be an effective way to get rid of small ants in house. Baits contain a slow-acting poison that the ants carry back to their colony, killing the entire colony. Place the bait near the ant trails and be patient. It may take several days for the bait to take effect.
Use Insecticides
If natural remedies and baits are not effective, you may need to use insecticides to get rid of small ants in house. Insecticides should be used as a last resort and only according to the label instructions. Be sure to keep children and pets away from the treated areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are small ants harmful?
A: Small ants are generally not harmful, but they can contaminate your food and cause damage to your property.
Q: Can I use bleach to kill small ants?
A: Bleach is not an effective way to get rid of small ants in house. It may kill a few ants, but it will not eliminate the entire colony.
Q: How do I prevent small ants from coming back?
A: To prevent small ants from coming back, you need to eliminate their food sources, seal off their entry points, and keep your house clean and tidy.
Q: What should I do if the infestation is severe?
A: If the infestation is severe, you may need to call a professional pest control company to help you get rid of small ants in house.
Conclusion
Getting rid of small ants in house can be a frustrating and time-consuming task. However, by following these tips and using the right treatment methods, you can effectively eliminate small ants and prevent them from coming back.