Natural Ways to Get Rid of Ants in Your House and Garden
- White vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution directly on the ants to kill them. You can also wipe the solution on surfaces where ants have been seen.
- Baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda around areas where ants are entering your home. The ants will carry the baking soda back to their nest, where it will react with the acid in their stomachs and kill them.
- Borax: Mix one part borax with two parts sugar. Roll the mixture into small balls and place them in areas where ants are active. The ants will be attracted to the sugar and will take the Borax back to their nest, where it will kill them.
- Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil is a natural insect repellent. Add a few drops of peppermint oil to a spray bottle filled with water. Spray the solution directly on ants to kill them. You can also add a few drops of peppermint oil to cotton balls and place them in areas where ants have been seen.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is another natural insect repellent. Sprinkle cinnamon powder around areas where ants are entering your home. The ants will be repelled by the smell of cinnamon and will not enter your home.
If you have a severe ant problem, you may need to call an exterminator. However, these natural methods can be effective in getting rid of ants and preventing them from coming back.
Here are some additional tips to help prevent ants:
- Keep your home clean and free of food and water. Ants are attracted to food and water, so it’s important to keep your home clean and free of these things. Wipe up any spills immediately and don’t leave food out on counters or tables.
- Seal up any cracks or holes in your home’s foundation or exterior. Ants can enter your home through even the smallest cracks or holes. Seal up any cracks or holes with caulk or weatherstripping.
- Store food in airtight containers. Ants can easily get into food that is not stored in airtight containers. Store all food in airtight containers, including pet food and garbage.
- Clean up pet food and garbage regularly. Ants are attracted to pet food and garbage. Clean up pet food and garbage regularly to discourage ants.
- Plant mint around your home. Mint is a natural ant repellent. Plant mint around your home to help keep ants away.
By following these tips, you can help prevent ants from infesting your home.