How to get rid of ants in the kitchen. 3 easy ways: ants bait, spray, or call a professional.
Having ants anywhere in your home is an issue because they can spread germs, but most importantly in your kitchen because this is where they usually find their most useful resource, “food.” In this next article, we’ll provide a few tips for getting rid of them and preventing future mishaps.
Common Ants Found in Kitchens
Ants are pretty clever insects when it comes to coming into your home and finding their way into your food source. The most common types are Argentine, Pharaoh, Odorous, and Carpenter Ants.
Argentine
The Argentine ant is a small, light brown bug. These ants are attracted to sweets, and they also feed on meat and grease. Argentine ants are very social and will create large colonies in and around homes, making them difficult to control.
Pharaoh
The pharaoh ant is another tiny ant that is light yellow to red in color. They are attracted to sweets, meats, and greasy foods. Pharaoh ants are also social and can be a serious problem in hospitals and other healthcare facilities as they can carry diseases.
Odorous
Odorous house ants are small and black, and they emit a strong, unpleasant odor when crushed. They are attracted to sweets and will also feed on meat and grease. These ants are very common in homes, and they can quickly become a problem if their presence is taken lightly
Carpenter
Carpenter ants are a bigger type of ant that can also be found in kitchens. They do not eat food but will nest in wood that has been damaged by moisture. They are destructive pests, so getting rid of them is also the best choice.
How to Identify the Source
Ants are smart little bugs that seem harmless, but it’s important to identify the source of their presence before taking action.
- Follow the trail: Look and see where the trail is coming from. Ants leave a scent trail that other ants can follow, so following the trail can help you locate their entry point.
- Look for cracks and gaps: Ants can enter your home through the tiniest of cracks and gaps, so inspect the walls, floors, and countertops for any openings. Sealing these openings can help prevent ants from entering your home.
- Check for food sources: Ants are attracted to food sources, so check your kitchen for any open containers, spills, or crumbs. Make sure to store your food in airtight containers and clean up any spills or crumbs immediately.
- Inspect the garbage: Ants can also be attracted to your garbage, so make sure to dispose of it regularly and keep the trash can sealed.
How to Get Rid of Ants in the Kitchen
Having identified the source, here are some ways of getting rid of them:
- Use ant baits: Ant baits are a common way to get rid of these bugs. They work by attracting ants to a poisoned food source, which they then take back to the colony to share with others.
- Use ant sprays: ant sprays can be used to kill ants on contact, but they won’t eliminate the actual colony.
- Hire a professional: If you have a large infestation or are unable to eliminate the ants on your own, hiring a professional pest control service will be your next choice.
Preventing Ants in Your Home
During the summer, ants are more likely to take a trip to your kitchen. Here are some tips to try and prevent future infestations.
- Overall cleanliness: Make sure to wipe down countertops, sweep the floors, and vacuum regularly. Also, don’t forget to clean up spills and crumbs immediately.
- Store food properly: Ants are attracted to food sources, so it’s important to store your food properly. Keep your food in containers, and make sure to close any open packages or containers.
- Seal openings: Ants can enter your home through even the smallest of openings, so it’s important to seal any cracks and gaps in the walls, floors, and foundation of your home. This will help prevent ants from finding their way inside.
- Fix leaks: Ants are also attracted to water sources, so make sure to fix any leaks in your home. This will help eliminate any moisture that attracts ants.
- Use natural deterrents: There are several natural deterrents that can help keep ants away. Peppermint oil, vinegar, and lemon juice are all known to repel ants.
- Keep outdoor areas clean: before ants are inside your kitchen, they attack your outdoors, so make sure to keep those areas clean and free of debris. This includes regularly cleaning your grill, patio furniture, and trash cans
In Conclusion
Ants in your kitchen can be a nuisance and a health hazard. The first step in getting rid of them is to identify the source and take appropriate action. You can use ant baits, and sprays, or hire a professional pest control service. Prevention is also key to avoiding future infestations. Keep your home clean, store your food properly, seal openings, fix leaks, and use natural deterrents. Remember, even the smallest opening or food spill can attract ants, so stay vigilant and take action quickly to prevent a full-blown infestation.
What Now?
Now that you have the tools to get rid of these little insects, you might want to know What is the Effect of Oven Cleaners on Kitchen Countertops?
