How Do I Get Rid of Ants Ants may be tiny, but they can be a big nuisance in a home. These insects can find their way inside through wiring and plumbing systems, in cracks around windows and doors and in many other ways. Once they're inside, ants are drawn to crumbs and can build nests or colonies indoors in places where they find food. While ants typically do not carry illnesses or diseases, some species do bite, and they can make even a well cared for home seem unclean and less than inviting. Read on to learn more about what homeowners can do when they discover ants.
Why Hire a Professional?
There are a number of DIY ant control products available for sale in big box stores, hardware stores and home improvement centers, but often, these products are not fully effective at eliminating ants. This is especially true when large infestations are present in a home or when the ants are inside of a wall or another area of a home where they are difficult to access. As a result, homeowners are often well served to contact a professional ant control exterminator, who will not only eliminate the ants but also let the consumers know how to keep ants from returning to the home.
Things to Do Before the Exterminator Arrives
Before performing ant pest control services, a licensed exterminator will conduct a complete home inspection to locate the ants, discover their entry point and determine what species is present. Homeowners can help get ready for an ant pest control inspection by:
1. Cleaning the kitchen area. Sweep the floors, wipe down the counter tops and wipe off the baseboards or trim. This will eliminate crumbs that attract ants.
2. Run the vacuum in every room of the home. This will further remove food sources.
3. Double check that all food is stored in airtight containers, even in the refrigerator.
4. Take the trash out regularly, particularly when food is thrown away in the garbage.