We have all heard to saying about cockroaches that where you see one, there is a good chance there are hundreds, even thousands, more. The same can be said for ants in that where this is one, thousands are likely to be close by.

Although it is true that the vast majority of ant species, over 12,000 of them around the world, are harmless to people, they are capable of carrying bacteria and viruses that can transmit infections and disease.

If you feel that you may have an infestation in your home, you will want to make sure to nip the problem in the bud as fast as you can. You have two choices—call a professional exterminator or try using natural, chemical-free methods to eliminate the problem.

Black or Cayenne Pepper:
These peppers are a natural deterrent for ants, as they find the smell somewhat irritating. To use the peppers, sprinkle liberally behind appliances and along baseboards.

 

Diatomaceous Earth:
Diatomaceous Earth, or silicon dioxide, is made by crushing up the fossilized remains of a form of plankton known as diatoms, an aquatic organism. The substance produced is not poison or even poisonous but will still be highly effective against ants. When an ant, or any other form of an insect, walks through the diatomaceous earth and gets it on them, the powder will work to absorb all the oils in the ant’s skeleton and dry them entirely out. For the best results, sprinkle liberally anywhere you have seen ants present.

 

 

Liquid Detergent and Glass Cleaner:
Like most insects, ants leave a trail of smell; behind them wherever they have been. The trail contains a scented pheromone that their bodies produce, which acts as a sort of map for the ants so they know where they have been and how to get back. To irradicate the trail and prevent ants from returning via this method, you only need to mix up a little glass cleaner and liquid detergent and spray it on those areas you see ants congregating.

Peppermint:
Peppermint has long been known as a natural insect repellent and deterrent. Not only will it work to repel ants but other insects, including mosquitoes. For peppermint oil to be an effective ant repellent, follow the steps below:

•Place ten to twenty drops of peppermint oil into two cups of water.
• Transfer the liquid into a clean plastic spray bottle.
• Proceed to those areas where you have observed ants, such as around windows and baseboards
of your home.
• Allow adequate time for the mixture to dry and then repeat as needed

 

Tea Tree:
Much in the same way as peppermint oil, tea tree oil can also prove to be an effective pest deterrent. Mix up a spray following these steps:

• Place five to ten drops of tea tree oil into two cups of water.
• Transfer the liquid into a clean plastic spray bottle.
• Proceed to spray those areas around your home where you have seen ants.
• If you prefer not to spray the mixture, you can saturate some cotton balls and then place them strategically around your home.

In the end, if you find that these natural methods are not working, you always have the option of using chemical pesticides or seeking out professional exterminator services.

 

AANTEX Pest Control offers a variety of free inspections and services to the entire Bay Area. 1-800-471-5555