Natural Methods to get Rid of Ants
Ants may be tiny, but they create big problems. They multiply quickly and get into practically anything and everything. Of course pesticides are effective, but you may not want chemicals all over your home, children and pets. Try the following natural ways to rid yourself of an ant problem.
Patch up holes
One of the best ways to get rid of ants involves absolutely no chemicals at all, natural or otherwise. Ants come and go from the house through many little holes that form through erosion, water damage and other problems. Go around your house, inside and out, and patch up any holes. Remember that ants are tiny, thus the holes that can accommodate them can be tiny as well. Even if you do not see ants, a new layer or calking in various places may help with holes you do not see and may prevent more in the future. You might find that your ant population decreases with this simple measure.
Take away the things that attracts them
Ants are naturally attracted to certain things, and taking these away is a way to reduce the ant population naturally. Obviously food is one of the biggest draws. Make sure to clean up food right away. Rinse dishes off before they go into the sink. Enclose food in airtight containers or Ziploc bags. Not only will this reduce ants, but it will also reduce the likelihood that you have to throw out food that gets infested.
Baby powder
Baby powder can help you get rid of ants, according to Colleen Vanderlinden of Planet Green. You can either put them on the ants or put it where you think they are coming into your home.
Diluted white vinegar
Mix white vinegar with water. Spray it in areas where you have seen the ants. This erases scent trails, which makes it difficult for ants to go the same ways as before.
You can also add ten drops of tea tree oil to the mixture. This helps to clean, disinfect and deodorize as well.
Bay leaves, cloves or cayenne pepper
Another natural remedy to an ant problem is to get some bay leaves or cloves. Ants do not care for these items and will stay away. You can place them where they come into your home. You can also put in cayenne pepper as another method.
There are many natural ways to get rid of ants. Try a variety of ways to get rid of this problem without harsh chemicals.