How to Keep Ants Away This Winter

Ants may be small, but they can be a big nuisance when they invade your home. During the winter months, ants can become more prevalent as they search for warmth and food. If you want to keep these pesky pests at bay, here are some tips and tricks for keeping ants away this winter.

1. Seal Off Entry Points

One of the easiest ways to keep ants out of your home is to seal off any entry points. Ants can sneak through even the tiniest cracks and gaps in your windows, foundation, and walls. Use caulk to seal any cracks or gaps, especially around doors and windows. Be sure to check for any gaps in pipes, electrical conduits, or ducts that may be coming into your home as well.

2. Keep Your Home Clean

Ants are always searching for food, so it’s important to keep your home clean and free of food waste. Clean up any spills or crumbs as soon as they happen. Wipe down your counters and floors daily, and be sure to clean up any pet food or spilled birdseed in the yard. Keep your pantry organized and use airtight containers to store food.

3. Use Ant Baits

Ant baits are a simple and effective way to get rid of ants. Ants are attracted to the bait’s sweet smell and will take it back to their nest, where it will kill the colony. Look for baits that contain borax or boric acid, as these are non-toxic to humans and pets. Place the baits in areas where ants are known to frequent, such as along baseboards, near doors and windows, and in corners.

4. Try Natural Remedies

If you prefer to avoid using chemicals in your home, there are several natural remedies you can try to repel ants. Peppermint oil, cinnamon, and lemon juice are all known to be effective at keeping ants away. Simply mix a few drops of oil or juice with water and spray around your home’s entry points, windows, and anywhere you’ve seen ants. You can also sprinkle cinnamon around your home’s perimeter.

5. Call in the Professionals

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get rid of the ants in your home, it may be time to call in the professionals. Pest control experts know how to target colonies and remove them safely and effectively. They can also provide ongoing preventative measures to keep ants out of your home for good.

Ants can be a frustrating problem to deal with, especially during the winter months. By following these tips and tricks, you can help keep ants out of your home and enjoy a pest-free winter. Remember to seal off entry points, keep your home clean, use ant baits, try natural remedies, and call in the professionals if needed. With a little effort and persistence, you can keep ants away this winter and beyond.