Blog > 5 Ways To Get Rid Of Ants In Your Home

If you’re experiencing an ant infestation in your home or business, there are a few ways you can attempt to control the situation before calling the experts in. Having the right solution that is effective for the ant problem is a key aspect of our pest control services, including preventative measures you can take now to avoid an escalation.

Signs Of An Ant Infestation

The first step is to determine the magnitude of the problem. Here are some signs that may indicate an infestation: 

• Seeing live ants, particularly foraging for food in kitchens or pantries
• Finding ant nests, which are typically located in soil, wood or other materials
• Seeing small piles of dirt or sand around entry points, as ants often excavate soil as they burrow
• Finding ant trails, which are lines of ants marching in a single direction
• Seeing damage to wood or other materials, as some ants burrow into these materials to build nests
• Unpleasant odours near ant nests, which can indicate the presence of rotting wood or other organic matter
• Seeing winged ants, which are reproductive ants that swarm to establish new colonies

Risks Of An Ant Infestation

They may be small, but when left unchecked, these little insects have the potential to cause significant damage to your property, such as:

• Damage to your building’s structural integrity, particularly wood structures
• Danger to human health (i.e., allergies, sanitation, bites)
• Spread of diseases
• Attracting other pests
• Contamination of food
• Ecological imbalance–ants play an important role in the ecosystem, and a significant increase in their population can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem
• Certain species of ants can chew through electrical wires, which can create a fire hazard in buildings
• Pest control costs–ants can be difficult to control once they establish a colony, and it can sometimes take multiple treatments to eradicate them

1. Use Natural Repellents

Certain essential oils, such as peppermint and lemon, can be used to repel ants. Mix a few drops of the oil with water and spray it around entry points and areas where you've seen ants. You can also place small bowls of vinegar or soapy water around your home to discourage ants from entering.

2. Seal Up Entry Points

Ants can enter your home through small cracks and crevices, so it's important to seal up any potential entry points. Use caulking to seal up gaps around windows and doors, and make sure to fix any leaks that could be attracting ants.

3. Keep Your Home Clean

Ants are attracted to food and sugary substances, so make efforts to keep your home clean and free of crumbs and spills. Wipe down counters and surfaces regularly, and store food in airtight containers.

4. Use Bait Traps

Bait traps are a simple and effective way to get rid of ants. You can purchase bait traps at most hardware or home improvement stores, or you can make your own using a mixture of sugar, borax and water. Place the bait near ant trails and wait for the ants to take it back to their colony, effectively killing off the entire colony.

5. Call A Professional 

If you can’t get rid of the ants on your own, it may be time to call in a professional. Our team at Holloway & Co has the knowledge and tools to eliminate ant infestations effectively. Our process involves an initial inspection, followed by a tailored treatment plan and extermination, as well as ongoing prevention and control. Call us to discuss your situation and receive a free quote on 0458 094 911.