GON Reader Question
Do you have any organized solutions for getting rid of ants that doesn't require me to adopt an anteater? I can't stand them and can never seem to get rid of them.
-- Jeannine in Pensacola, FL
Response from Maria Gracia
Hi Jeannine,
Absolutely, I completely understand your frustration with those pesky ants. They seem to have a knack for invading our spaces. Luckily, there are
some organized solutions that can help you effectively get rid of them and keep them at bay.
First, it's important to tackle the root causes of their attraction. Ants are typically drawn to food sources (decaying produce is a big draw for them), moisture, and shelter. So, maintaining cleanliness in your home is key. Wiping down
surfaces, sealing food in airtight containers, and promptly fixing any leaks or damp areas can make your home less appealing to these unwanted guests.
Next, focus on eliminating their entry points. Sealing cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and walls can prevent ants from sneaking in. Installing door sweeps on exterior doors is
another effective measure to block their access.
Removing water sources is crucial in deterring ants. Fixing leaky faucets and using dehumidifiers in damp areas can make your home less hospitable for them.
When it comes to natural remedies, you can try using a mixture of blue Dawn dish soap and water in a spray bottle. This solution not only kills ants on contact but also helps to erase their scent trails, discouraging others from following.
Fill a spray bottle with water. Add a few drops of blue Dawn dish soap to the water. Secure the spray bottle cap and shake gently to mix the soap with the water.
Your soap and water solution will then be ready to use.
Spray it directly onto ants or along their trails to deter them. The soap disrupts the ants' communication and scent trails, making it harder for them to navigate and find food sources in your home.Consider setting up ant baits. You can either purchase commercial baits or make your own using a mixture of borax, sugar, and honey. This bait will attract ants and, once ingested, effectively eliminate their colony.
In a small bowl, mix together equal parts borax powder and honey. For example, you could start with 1/4 cup of borax and 1/4 cup of honey. Add a small amount of water to the mixture to create a thick paste. The water helps to dissolve the borax and makes it easier for the ants to consume.
Once the paste is
well mixed, spoon it into small containers, such as jar lids or bottle caps. These containers will serve as the bait stations for the ants.
Place the bait stations in areas where you've seen ant activity or along their trails. Be sure to put them out of reach of children and pets.
Allow the ants to consume the bait. They will carry it back to their colony, where the borax will disrupt their digestive system and eventually eliminate the colony.
Remember to check and replenish the bait stations as needed until the ant infestation is under control. Additionally, be patient, as it may
take some time for the bait to be effective in eradicating the entire ant colony.
Finally, if the infestation is severe or persistent, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Pest control services have the expertise and tools to eradicate ants effectively, giving you peace of mind in your ant-free home.
By implementing these organized solutions, I'm hoping you can say goodbye to the ants and enjoy a pest-free environment in your home.
