Ant Control Guide: Effective Ways to Eliminate Ant Colonies in Your Home

Ants aren’t just pesky little critters; they can mess with your food, wreak havoc on your
property, and sometimes even deliver a painful bite.

It’s good to be aware of what they can do! If you’ve found yourself facing an ant invasion,
don’t worry! This guide shares some tried-and-true methods to help you eliminate those
pesky ants and ensure they don’t return.

Know Your Enemy: Common Ant Species & How to Spot Them

Different ants require different treatments. Here are the most common home invaders:

Odorous House Ants – Small, dark brown, emit a rotten coconut smell when crushed.
Carpenter Ants – Large, black or red, tunnel through wood (like termites).
Pavement Ants – Brown/black, nest under sidewalks and foundations.
Fire Ants – Reddish-brown, aggressive, deliver painful stings.

Quick Tip: Identify trails—sugar ants seek sweets, while grease ants go for proteins.

Seven Tested DIY Ant Control Techniques That Aim for the Colony

Instead of only eliminating visible ants, focus on the colony for efficient removal

1. Workers bring back to the queen ant baits that contain borax or boric acid.
2. Apply vinegar and water solutions (1:1) to break up smell trails.
3. Applying diatomaceous earth on roadways and entrance points.
4. Commercial gel baits are designed for certain kinds of ants.
5. Natural deterrents like peppermint oil, coffee grinds, or cinnamon can be used.
6. Sticky traps to track the extent of infestation are also a good option.
7. Specific outdoor treatments are needed around the outside of the house.

When to Get Professional Help for Ant Control

If DIY techniques aren’t working or you’re dealing with obstinate species like carpenter ants, it’s time to call in the professionals. With the right equipment and expertise, pest control specialists like Sanctuary Pest Control can find hidden nests and solve the issue at its root, providing you with the reassurance and support you need.

Final Thought: Act Fast!

Ant colonies expand fast, so early action may save money and effort. To prevent future issues, start with natural solutions, which empower you to take control and align with your environmental values. If necessary, get expert help and shut off entrance points.