By emma hynes
Few things are more frustrating than discovering a trail of ants marching across your kitchen counter or invading your pantry.
Whether you’re dealing with a full-blown infestation or just a few unwelcome visitors, knowing how to get rid of ants and how to keep them from coming back is key to maintaining a clean, pest-free home.
Here are some simple, effective methods to banish ants for good, from natural remedies to tried-and-true prevention strategies.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray along ant trails, entry points and countertops. The strong smell disrupts their scent trails.
Mix equal parts baking soda and powdered sugar. Ants are attracted to the sugar, but the baking soda disrupts their digestive system.
Use caulk to seal cracks around windows, doors and walls. Ants can squeeze through the tiniest openings!
Draw chalk lines along entry points — the calcium carbonate confuses ants and can deter them from crossing.
Spray ant trails and entry points with an insecticidal spray, but be cautious using this method around pets and children.
Use commercial ant bait stations. Ants carry the bait back to their colony, killing the queen and the rest of the nest.
Wipe down counters and sweep floors regularly to remove food crumbs and spills. Keep food in airtight containers to prevent attracting ants. Empty garbage bins frequently and ensure they’re sealed properly.
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