Summer is here, and while it brings sunshine, barbecues, and beach days, it also welcomes some less desirable guests—ants. These tiny invaders can quickly turn a pleasant summer day into a frustrating experience as they march into your home in search of food and water.
At Preferred Maids, we understand the annoyance ants can cause, and we’re here to help you keep them at bay. Here are our top tips for keeping ants away this summer and maintaining a clean, ant-free home.
1. Understand Why Ants Invade Your Home
Before tackling an ant problem, it’s essential to understand why they come inside in the first place:
Food: Ants are primarily attracted to food crumbs, sugary spills, and open containers.
Water: Even small leaks can attract ants, as they seek moisture, especially in dry conditions.
Shelter: Ants may enter homes seeking a safe place to establish a colony.
Knowing these reasons helps you take proactive steps to prevent them from invading.
2. Seal Entry Points
Ants are incredibly small and can find their way through the tiniest cracks and crevices. Here’s how you can block their entry:
Inspect and Seal: Examine windows, doors, and foundations for cracks and gaps. Use silicone caulk or weather stripping to seal these entry points.
Check Screens: Ensure window and door screens are intact and fit snugly to keep ants from sneaking in.
3. Keep Your Kitchen Clean
The kitchen is a hotspot for ant activity due to the abundance of food. Maintaining a clean kitchen can significantly reduce the chances of an infestation:
Wipe Surfaces: Clean countertops and tables after each meal to remove food residues and crumbs.
Store Food Properly: Use airtight containers for storing food items like cereals, sugar, and pet food.
Take Out the Trash: Regularly dispose of trash and ensure bins are sealed tightly.
4. Eliminate Moisture Sources
Ants are drawn to water, making it crucial to address any moisture problems in your home:
Fix Leaks: Repair any leaking pipes, faucets, or appliances to eliminate water sources.
Use a Dehumidifier: In damp areas like basements, a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture levels.
5. Use Natural Ant Deterrents
There are several natural methods to keep ants at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals:
Essential Oils: Peppermint, tea tree, and citrus oils are known to repel ants. Mix a few drops with water and spray around entry points and ant trails.
Diatomaceous Earth: This natural powder can be sprinkled around entry points. It works by dehydrating ants upon contact.
Chalk or Talcum Powder: Drawing a line with chalk or sprinkling talcum powder can disrupt ant trails and deter them from crossing.
6. Set Up Ant Baits and Traps
If you’ve already spotted ants inside, bait and traps can help control the problem:
Ant Baits: Place ant baits near trails or suspected entry points. These baits attract ants, which then carry the poison back to their colony.
Homemade Traps: Create a homemade trap using borax and sugar. Mix equal parts, place in shallow dishes, and set near ant activity areas.
7. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Consistency is vital in keeping ants away. Here’s how regular cleaning and maintenance can help:
Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum floors and carpets to remove crumbs and potential ant trails.
Check Outdoor Spaces: Trim shrubs and trees that touch your home, as ants can use these as bridges to enter.
Monitor Ant Activity: Keep an eye on ant activity around your home to catch potential infestations early.
8. Professional Help When Needed
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, ants can still find their way in. If you face a persistent infestation, it might be time to seek professional help:
Expert Assessment: Professionals can identify the root cause and provide targeted treatments.
Safe Solutions: A professional cleaning and pest control service can offer safe and effective solutions to keep ants at bay.
Final Thoughts
Keeping ants away during the summer requires diligence and a proactive approach. By following these tips and maintaining a clean and sealed home, you can enjoy a peaceful, ant-free summer. At Preferred Maids, we’re here to help you with all your cleaning needs and offer expert advice on keeping your home pristine.
Contact us today to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can assist you in maintaining an ant-free home all summer long.
