Sugar ants are a group of ants that are attracted to sugary foods and can quickly infest your kitchen or pantry. Some common types of these are Odorous House Ants, Little Black Ants, Pharaoh Ants, Acrobat Ants, and Argentine Ants. Many of these species can be difficult to identify because they have similar appearance and behaviour. If you're dealing with a sugar ant problem, don't worry – we've got you covered! In this post, we'll share some effective tips on how to eliminate sugar ants and keep them from coming back.
Identify the Source
The first step in getting rid of sugar ants is to locate their entry point and identify the source of their attraction. Check for any cracks or gaps in windows, doors, or walls where they might be entering your home. Additionally, inspect your kitchen and pantry for spilled food or unsealed containers that may be attracting these pesky insects. Many times these ants will have multiple queens, so identification of the parent nest may be difficult. Look under logs, inside wall voids, soil and rocks around the home, or even feeding on aphids honeydew on a plant nearby the home.
Clean Thoroughly
Once you've identified the source of the infestation, it's time to clean up! Sugar ants leave behind pheromone trails that lead other ants to their food source. Sugary items like fruit and candy are preferred choices by the worker ants. By thoroughly cleaning your kitchen and pantry, you can disrupt these trails and make it harder for the ants to find their way back.
- Wipe down countertops with a mixture of vinegar and water.
- Sweep or vacuum any crumbs or food particles on the floor.
- Store all food in tightly sealed containers.
- Take out the trash regularly to prevent odors from attracting more ants.
Use Natural Deterrents
There are several natural deterrents that can help repel sugar ants without using harsh chemicals. Consider trying one or more of these methods:
- Sprinkle cinnamon near entry points or areas where you've seen ant activity.
- Place cucumber slices or citrus peels in areas where ants are commonly found.
- Create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water and spray it along ant trails.
Seal Entry Points
Preventing future infestations is just as important as getting rid of the existing ones. Seal all entry points to keep sugar ants from coming back into your home. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal cracks in windows, doors, and walls. Pay special attention to areas where pipes or wires enter your home, as these can be common entry points for ants.
Call the Professionals
If you've tried all of the above methods and are still struggling with a sugar ant infestation, it may be time to call in the professionals. Pest control experts have the knowledge and experience to effectively eliminate sugar ants and prevent future infestations. They can also provide valuable advice on how to make your home less attractive to these pests.
In conclusion, getting rid of sugar ants requires a combination of cleaning, natural deterrents, and sealing entry points. By following these tips, you can effectively eliminate sugar ants from your home and keep them from returning. Remember, if all else fails, don't hesitate to reach out to pest control professionals for assistance.