Avelar Home Inspection Inc.

How to Keep Ants at Bay: Simple Tips for a Pest-Free Home

 

Ants are persistent little creatures, and once they find their way into your home, they can become quite a nuisance. Whether you’re dealing with tiny sugar ants or larger carpenter ants, here are some effective strategies to keep them out:

1. Seal Entry Points:

  • Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and openings where ants can enter. Pay attention to windows, doors, and foundation gaps.
  • Seal these entry points using caulk or weatherstripping to prevent ants from sneaking in.

2. Keep It Clean:

  • Ants are attracted to food crumbs and spills. Regularly clean countertops, floors, and other surfaces.
  • Store food in airtight containers to minimize odors that attract ants.

3. Remove Attractants:

  • Wipe down sticky residue from honey jars, syrup bottles, and other sweet containers.
  • Rinse recyclables before placing them in the bin to avoid attracting ants.

4. Natural Repellents:

  • Use natural repellents like cinnamon, peppermint, or vinegar. Ants dislike these scents.
  • Place cotton balls soaked in vinegar near entry points or ant trails.

5. Ant-Proof Your Pantry:

  • Store dry goods (flour, sugar, cereals) in sealed containers.
  • Check for signs of ants in your pantry and promptly address any issues.

6. Ant Bait Stations:

  • Set up ant bait stations near entry points. These contain bait that ants carry back to their colony, eliminating the entire nest.

7. Outdoor Prevention:

  • Trim tree branches away from your home to prevent ants from using them as bridges.
  • Keep firewood and other debris away from the house.

8. Professional Help:

  • If the ant infestation persists, consider hiring a professional pest control service.
  • They can identify the ant species and apply targeted treatments.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with ants. Implement these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to an ant-free home! 

AVELAR HOME INSPECTION info@avelarhomeinspection.com 613-797-8184