How Do I Deal with Ants in the House? Eight Ways to Discourage Them

**How Do I Deal with Ants in the House? Eight Ways to Discourage Them**

Ants are one of the most common pests that homeowners deal with, and though they’re small, they can quickly become a big problem. Once ants find a food source, they leave behind a trail that can attract even more ants. Fortunately, there are many natural, effective ways to deal with ants without resorting to harsh chemicals. Whether you’re facing a few wandering ants or a full-on infestation, here are eight proven ways to discourage ants from invading your home.

### 1. **Clean Up Food and Crumbs**

Ants are typically in search of food, and once they find a source, they’ll send more of their colony to it. The first step in keeping ants at bay is to eliminate any potential food sources.

– **Clean Surfaces Regularly:** Wipe down kitchen counters, tables, and any surfaces where food may be prepared or consumed.
– **Vacuum or Sweep Frequently:** Crumbs on the floor are a big attractor for ants. Make sure to vacuum or sweep up any crumbs in areas where food is eaten.
– **Seal Food Properly:** Store food in airtight containers to keep ants from finding it. This includes both pantry items like sugar, flour, and cereal, as well as open packages that could attract ants.

By removing the food, you’re taking away the primary reason ants are entering your home.

### 2. **Seal Entry Points**

Ants are persistent creatures, and they’ll find ways to slip into your home through even the smallest gaps. Sealing these entry points is a crucial step in discouraging ants from coming inside.

– **Inspect Doors and Windows:** Check around doors, windows, and baseboards for gaps and cracks. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any openings.
– **Look for Holes in Walls:** Ants can even enter through small holes in your walls, especially if you have plumbing or wiring running through them. Inspect these areas and seal any visible holes.
– **Check Your Foundation:** Sometimes ants enter through cracks in the foundation of your home. If you notice any larger cracks, it might be time to repair them.

By blocking these potential pathways, you’ll make it harder for ants to gain access to your home.

### 3. **Use Natural Ant Deterrents**

There are several natural substances that ants find unpleasant, and these can be used to create barriers or sprays that discourage ants from entering or staying in your home.

– **Vinegar:** Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and use it to wipe down surfaces where ants are present. Ants dislike the smell of vinegar, and it can disrupt their scent trails.
– **Cinnamon:** Sprinkle ground cinnamon around ant entry points or on surfaces where ants have been seen. The strong scent of cinnamon acts as a deterrent.
– **Lemon Juice:** Ants also dislike the acidity of lemon. Squeeze fresh lemon juice around doorways, windows, and other areas where ants enter, or mix it with water for a spray.
– **Essential Oils:** Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus oil, are effective at repelling ants. Dilute a few drops of essential oil in water and spray it around the areas where ants have been seen.

These natural remedies can keep ants away while being safe for both your home and the environment.

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