What Attracts Ants in My House? How to Get Rid of Them with Simple Homemade Remedies?

These little black insects might be suddenly infiltrating your home in the late spring, searching for food and new living territories. But people don’t find their neighborhood attractive, and the sight of a trail of ants marching through your house is not really welcome. While these tiny creatures may seem harmless, they appear in no time and in great number, therefore their presence can be quite bothersome. Today, we’ll shed some light on the problem why the little black insects are drawn to living areas, trying to invade your home. On this page, you’ll also find out some practical, effective solutions to drive ants away from your house or apartment.

Why Are Ants Suddenly in My House?

Ants are persistent and resourceful insects, constantly on the lookout for food, water, and shelter. When they find a reliable source of sustenance, they leave behind scent trails to guide other members of their colony to the treasure trove. Here are some common examples of what attracts ants to a house:

• Food sources: Ants are attracted to food sources, especially those containing sugar, protein, or grease. Crumbs, spills, uncovered food, and improperly stored pantry items can all entice ants into your home.
• Water sources: Ants need water to survive. Therefore, leaking pipes, standing water, or damp areas can act as an invitation for them to explore your living space.
• Entry points: Tiny cracks, gaps, and holes in your walls, foundation, or windows provide easy access for ants, which seek shelter from harsh weather conditions or are in search of a new nesting site.

What Smells Are Ants Attracted To?

These insects possess an acute sense of smell, and certain scents can be highly appealing to them. Understanding what attracts ants in my house can help you take proactive measures to prevent their invasion. Here are some scents that they find enticing:

• Sugary foods: Ants have a sweet tooth, and sugary foods like fruits, syrups, and nectar can be irresistible to them. Sticky residue from spilled beverages or uncovered sweets can draw them into your house.
• Pungent odors: Some species of ants are attracted to strong odors, such as those emitted by overripe fruits, rotting garbage, or decaying organic matter. Therefore, it is important to dispose of the garbage regularly and keep your home clean.
• Oils and grease: Certain species of ants are particularly fond of greasy and oily substances. Kitchen counters, stove tops, and grills that have not been properly cleaned can entice these ants into your home.

What Smell Scares Ants?

The examples of what attracts ants in my house are numerous. Fortunately, there are scents that they find repulsive, and you can use them when trying to deter these persistent insects. Here are a few smells that ants dislike:

Peppermint

The strong scent of peppermint acts as a natural ant deterrent. Place cotton balls soaked in peppermint essential oil near entry points or areas where these insects are commonly seen to discourage them from coming.

Vinegar

Ants dislike the acidic nature of vinegar. Prepare a repelling solution by mixing equal parts of water and vinegar, and use it to wipe down surfaces, countertops, and floors to stop these insects from entering your rooms.

Citrus

Ants have an aversion to citrus scents. Rub citrus peels, such as lemon, orange, or grapefruit, along baseboards, windowsills, and other ant-prone areas to drive them away.

Read also: How to get rid of spiders in the house with natural remedies?

How Do I Get Rid of Ants in My House?

Let’s explore effective methods to keep these tiny intruders out of your house:

1. Keep the rooms clean: Regularly clean up crumbs, spills, and food residue, especially in the kitchen area. Wipe out countertops, sweep floors, and vacuum carpets to eliminate any potential food sources that may attract these insects.
2. Close the entry points: Identify and seal off any cracks, gaps, or openings where ants might be entering your house. Use caulk or weatherstripping to close gaps in windows, doors, and foundations. This will help prevent ants from finding their way indoors.
3. Store food in containers: Keep food supplies in airtight containers to prevent ants from accessing them. One good solution is to place cereal, flour, and sugar in jars. Additionally, regularly clean your pantry to remove any spilled food that might attract ants.
4. Remove water leaks: Moisture is attractive to ants, so it’s essential to remove any leaks or sources of standing water in and around your house. Check for dripping faucets, leaking pipes, and areas of excess moisture. Repairing these issues will discourage ants from seeking water indoors.
5. Natural repellents: Certain scents repel ants. In addition to peppermint, vinegar, and citrus, other natural remedies can be effective. For example, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves can be strategically placed near ant entry points to deter them.

If you have a severe or recurring ant infestation that persists despite your efforts, it may be best to seek professional pest control services. Their experts have the knowledge and tools to remove ant colonies and provide long-term prevention strategies.