To get rid of sugar ants effectively, follow these key steps:
1. Eliminate Food Sources
- Store all food, especially sugary items, in airtight containers.
- Clean up crumbs, spills, and sticky residues immediately.
- Regularly dispose of trash and keep trash bins clean.
- Control aphid populations on plants nearby, as aphids produce honeydew that attracts ants
2. Seal Entry Points
- Use caulk or spackle to seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, baseboards, and the foundation.
- Ensure door sweeps and window screens are intact and properly fitted to prevent ants from entering
3. Use Natural Repellents and Treatments
- Spray white vinegar or a mixture of vinegar and water along ant trails and entry points to disrupt their scent trails.
- Use essential oils like peppermint or lavender mixed with water as a spray to repel ants.
- Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth along ant trails; it damages ants' exoskeletons and dehydrates them.
- Place bay leaves or cloves near entry points as natural deterrents
4. Apply Borax-Based Baits
- Mix borax with sugar or peanut butter to create bait that attracts ants.
- Place bait stations near ant trails and entry points so worker ants carry the poison back to the colony, killing the queen and others.
- Borax is highly effective but should be used carefully, especially around children and pets
5. Additional Tips
- Wipe down countertops and floors regularly to remove ant scent trails.
- Avoid over-the-counter ant sprays, as they may cause colonies to split and worsen the infestation.
- For severe infestations, consider hiring professional pest control services for targeted treatment and long-term management
Summary
Getting rid of sugar ants involves a combination of sanitation, sealing entry points, natural repellents, and effective baiting with borax mixtures. Consistency and thoroughness are key to eliminating the colony and preventing re-infestation
