Ants are tiny but persistent invaders that can make your home feel less comfortable. They sneak in through cracks, march across your counters, and sometimes even contaminate your food. Addressing an ant problem immediately is crucial. A small colony can quickly grow into a larger infestation, making it harder to deal with later. If you’re wondering how to get rid of ants in house, this guide will walk you through the most effective solutions.
Steps to Eliminate Ants in 2025
1. Eliminate Access Points
Ants often enter through small cracks or gaps. Blocking these entryways can make a big difference.
- Seal Cracks and CrevicesÂ
Use caulk or putty to seal any cracks in walls, along windowsills, and around doors. By doing so, you’ll block one of their main entry points.
- Secure Windows and DoorsÂ
Install weatherstripping or use draft stoppers to close off gaps around doors and windows. Ants often use these areas as highways into your home.
- Store Food ProperlyÂ
Ants are attracted to crumbs and open food containers. Store perishable items in airtight containers or keep them in the refrigerator. Make sure pet food is also properly sealed.
2. Regular Cleaning
Keeping your home tidy is one of the best defenses against ants.
- Wipe Down SurfacesÂ
Ants pick up on food crumbs and sugary spills. Clean your kitchen counters, dining table, and any area where food is prepared or consumed.
- Empty Trash RegularlyÂ
Ants are drawn to garbage, especially if it contains food scraps. Empty your trash cans frequently and use bins with tightly sealed lids.
- Manage Water SourcesÂ
Ants need water to survive. Fix leaky faucets and pipes, and dry any standing water in sinks or around your home.
3. Use Natural Repellents
For those who prefer eco-friendly solutions, natural remedies are effective and safe.
- VinegarÂ
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution along ant trails and entry points. The strong smell disrupts their scent paths, confusing the ants.
- Lemon JuiceÂ
Squeeze lemon juice near entry points and ant trails. Its acidic smell masks the scent trails ants follow, keeping them away.
- Essential OilsÂ
Dilute peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus oil in water and spray it in areas with ant activity. These scents are natural ant repellents.
- Diatomaceous EarthÂ
Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth along ant trails. It dehydrates ants on contact, effectively killing them while remaining safe for humans and pets.
- CinnamonÂ
Ants dislike the strong scent of cinnamon. Sprinkle ground cinnamon on their trails or leave cinnamon sticks near entry points.
4. Use Chemical Repellents
When natural remedies aren’t enough, chemical solutions can provide faster results.
- Ant BaitsÂ
Ant baits contain slow-acting poison that worker ants carry back to their colony. This eliminates the ants at the source. Look for baits that are safe for indoor use.
- Ant SpraysÂ
Sprays are effective for quick action. Use them directly on ants, as well as on cracks and corners where they might nest.
- Boric AcidÂ
Mix boric acid with powdered sugar to create a homemade ant bait. Place small amounts near trails and entry points to attract and kill ants.
5. When to Call Professionals
If you’ve tried home remedies without success or are dealing with a severe infestation, it’s time to seek professional help. Pest control experts can identify hidden colonies and provide targeted treatments. They can also offer long-term solutions to keep your home ant-free.
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Final Thoughts
Ants might be small, but they can cause big problems if left unchecked. Addressing their presence with these steps will prevent their numbers from growing. Regular cleaning, sealing entry points, and using repellents are all crucial for keeping them out. If you’re still struggling, professional help can provide the long-term solution you need. When wondering how to get rid of ants in house, remember that quick action and consistent prevention are the keys to success. Follow Us on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter for the latest updates.
FAQs
What scent will keep ants away?
Ants dislike strong smells such as peppermint, vinegar, lemon, and cinnamon. Using these natural repellents can help keep them away from your home.
What is the best homemade ant killer?
One of the best homemade ant killers is a mixture of baking soda and sugar. The sugar attracts the ants, and the baking soda disrupts their digestion.
How do I get rid of ants permanently?
To get rid of ants permanently, seal all entry points, remove food and water sources, clean thoroughly, and use ant baits or professional treatments to eliminate their nests.
Is it bad if ants are in your house?
Yes, ants can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria. While most species are harmless, some, like carpenter ants, can damage your home by tunneling through wood.
