5 natural methods of eliminating ants for good
Summertime brings with it the presence of ants, those minuscule creatures that can be quite bothersome. Despite their small size, ant bites can deliver a potent sting, resulting in red skin bumps and, in some cases, triggering severe allergies. The itchiness of ant bites and the potential for swelling might tempt you to scratch, but it's crucial to resist this urge as scratching could introduce bacteria, potentially leading to infection. If you're seeking to avoid the discomfort of ant bites altogether, here are effective home remedies for eradicating ants and keeping them at bay:
Borax Repellent: To craft a potent ant trap, combine 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of Borax in a lidded plastic container. Create small holes in the lid and scatter a bit of sugar around the container to attract the ants. The sweet fragrance will entice them, and the Borax will act as a poison, eradicating the ant population.
Non-Toxic Ant Repellent: For a safe and natural ant repellent spray, mix 2/3 cup of white vinegar, 1/3 cup of water, 20 drops of clove essential oil, 20 drops of tea tree oil, and 1 teaspoon of liquid castile soap in a spray bottle. Vigorously shake to thoroughly blend the ingredients. Employ this solution to directly spritz the ants and their entry points, such as windowsills, doorways, and crevices. The potent aroma of the oils and vinegar will discourage ants and dissuade further invasions.
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil proves versatile and effective against various household pests, ants included. Dip a q-tip into tea tree oil and apply it to entry points around your home, like gaps, cracks, and crevices. The robust scent of tea tree oil repels ants and disrupts their trails, rendering it a superb natural deterrent.
Boiling Water: When you locate an ant hill or nest, tackling the ant issue at its origin can be achieved by pouring boiling water directly onto the nest. Employ this method outdoors, where the boiling water can penetrate the heart of the ant colony and effectively eradicate it. Exercise caution to avoid pouring boiling water on plants or in areas where it could cause damage.
Lemon Juice: Lemon juice, owing to its high acidity and potent fragrance, serves as a natural ant repellent. Combine equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and use it to spray areas in your home where ants might enter, such as cracks, windows, and doorways. The citrus aroma will deter ants from crossing these barriers, ensuring they stay out of your living spaces.
By applying these home remedies, you can efficiently eliminate ants and thwart their attempts to invade your home. However, it's essential to note that while these methods can prove successful, they might not offer a permanent solution for extensive or persistent ant infestations. In such cases, seeking guidance from a professional pest control service could be necessary for further assistance.
RESOURCES BANNER IMAGE CREDIT, EVERYDAY HEALTH, CREEKLINE HOUSE, SCRATCH MOMMY, AND DIY & CRAFTS