In the early spring, ants become very active and they will make every attempt to invade your yard and home. During this time of year, worker ants will leave the colony in search of food, water, and shelter. As they search for these basic survival needs, they leave a pheromone trail for other ants in the colony to follow. If these trails are not removed, they can remain in the same place for a long time. Once ants make their way into a home, they may build a nest, which makes them very difficult to get rid of. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent an infestation from happening. One of our pest control experts explains what these are below.
Keep Kitchen and Dining Areas Clean
The main reason ants make their way inside is to search for food. Once there, they will then easily find the smallest of crumbs. Keeping your kitchen and dining areas clean is the best way to prevent an ant infestation. Always wipe tables, countertops, and other surfaces after preparing or eating food. Also, sweep and mop floors regularly to prevent ants.
Seal Entry Points
Ants can use the smallest of gaps and cracks in windows, doors, and walls to get into your home. Seal these entry points with weatherstripping or caulk to keep them outside where they belong.
Repair Leaks
Ants also need water to survive and so, it is important to repair any leaks around the home that could attract the pests. Inspect areas around windows, the basement, and under sinks to make sure there are no leaks that could draw ants inside.
Use Sealed Containers to Store Food
Open containers of food are a haven for ants. To prevent these pests from ruining your pantry, and food supply, keep food in the refrigerator or use sealed containers when storing it.
Spray Entryways with Vinegar
The smell of vinegar repels ants and so, you can use this as a neutral repellant. Place equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to all entryways and anywhere else you see ants. You may have to reapply the vinegar as it will wear off over time.
Use Plant Extracts
Natural oils are natural deterrents for ants. You can apply these oils, or sprinkle them around entryways to keep ants from entering your home. The best plant extracts or powders to use include:
- Tea tree oil
- Peppermint oil
- Lemon Eucalyptus
- Ground cinnamon
As with vinegar, you may have to reapply these natural repellants.
Call a Pest Control Expert in Idaho
While there are many things you can do to prevent ants from entering your home, they are not always successful. If ants have made their way onto your property, our Idaho pest control experts at Pestcom Pest Management can help. We can get rid of your ant problem and have the tools to make sure it does not come back. Call us now at (986) 214-0953 or contact us online to request a free pest control inspection and to learn more about how we can help.