Homeowners will sometimes encounter tiny ants in their kitchens. From one individual ant to a colony of them, these pests can pose significant disruptions to daily routines and disrupt everyday activities. Luckily, there are effective solutions available that can show these creatures who's boss without resorting to toxic chemicals.
Ants typically enter homes to search for food and water. Ants are drawn to sugary treats like honey, syrup, fruit juice and crumbs as well as starchy substances like cornmeal. Greasy or oily items such as fried or grilled food also attract them, along with any leftovers left on the floor or sink - such as pet food left out unattended.
Ants require constant access to water, so they tend to congregate around sinks and garbage pails for moisture sources. Regularly wiping countertops with natural cleaners that contain anti-ant ingredients will help ensure these pests do not invade your kitchen space.
An effective way to keep ants out of your kitchen is through frequent cleaning and sealing any entry points you discover. Make sure all leftovers are stored in airtight containers and immediately wipe up crumbs, smears or spills as soon as they appear. Also ensure all garbage pails and recycling bins have tight-fitting lids to help deter entry. Finally, consider making a homemade repellent such as tea tree oil, lemon extracts or pepper powder as homemade repellents to discourage ants from coming inside.