Ants are very common in all parts of the globe. Hundreds of ant types are found in different regions based on climatic conditions. An ant infestation can be quite stubborn to curb, as it is not easy to get rid of them in a day. Keep any sugar-rich food outside, and the next moment there is an ant army swarming near the piece of food. This can be bothersome and dangerous for the people living in the household.
The best way to curb the problem is by calling a pest control service. One should always choose the best services in town and inquire about the ant and rat exterminator cost beforehand.
But, in case one needs some home remedies, here are 5 top natural remedies for deterring and killing ants at home.
- Vinegar
Vinegar can be used to kill ants and deter them from entering the house. Use water and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio, using a spray bottle, simple spray the solution near the doors and windows from the ants can enter. Also, spray them on ants to kill them.
- Peppermint
One of the very effective natural ways to stop ants from infesting is; peppermint. The strong scent of peppermint is something that ants are not very fond of. They will steer clear of any area that has a peppermint smell. Thus, one can plant some peppermint plants around the walls, on the perimeter, near the door and kitchen entrance. Also, one can use peppermint oil by rubbing it on the ant frequented places.
- Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth or DE of food grade is useful in killing the ants. DE is fossilized marine phytoplankton in powder forms. DE particles have sharp edges that are almost razor-like, which can harm the exoskeleton of the ants. Sprinkle some around the doorways and windows and around the garbage cans and cupboards where the ants frequent the most.
- Black pepper
Black pepper or cayenne pepper is another hated kitchen element among ants. Pepper is not that effective in killing the ants but will surely cause them never to return. One can use black pepper powder or cayenne pepper powder and sprinkle them near the entryways of the ants. Simply using pepper as a boundary will ensure that the ants will not return after some time.
- Lemon juice
Lemon juice is also acidic and has a strong scent that helps remove the trails of food scent that ants tend to follow. Take 1:3 ratios of lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and spray along the ant-infested areas like the kitchen, windows, and garbage cans. This will help in killing some ants and will help deter them as well from entering the house.
At times, one can find several natural remedies at home itself. Most of the time, they are safe and do not cause any side effects. Ants are not too dangerous, but they can be quite a nuisance. Therefore, one should use natural remedies to ward them off at first. And, in case they do not go away, then it is better to give the pest control a quick call.
About The Author
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Shanon Durham is an irreverent news writer. She covers wide variety of areas and topics of interest. She believes that writing is a powerful tool that can be used to change the world.
