7 Tips to Keep Ants Out Of Your Home
When the weather is warm, these insects become more active and often head indoors. They enter homes in search of food, water and shelter. We regularly receive calls about ant infestations that have become a real nuisance. Thankfully, there are several easy steps you can take to keep ants out. Most people have problems with common black garden ants. However, you may have issues with carpenter ants or pharaoh ants.
1. Seal all potential entry points
Firstly, inspect the outside of your home for cracks and gaps. Even tiny holes allow these insects to get in. We recommend sealing joints, windows and door frames with caulk or filler. This simple step will help keep ants out before they become a problem.
2. Store food in airtight containers
Ants are especially drawn to sugary and greasy foods. Store all pantry items in sealed containers. Clean up crumbs and spills immediately. By removing access to food, you make your home far less inviting to ants as well as other pests.
3. Keep worktops and floors clean
Even small traces of food can attract these insects. So, wipe kitchen surfaces regularly and sweep or hoover crumbs. Additionally, wash up dishes straight away. A spotless kitchen goes a long way in helping keep ants out.
4. Remove pet food overnight
Many people forget to clean pet bowls or leave them down too long, even when they want to keep ants away. However, ants are quick to find them. Always clean up pet food and water overnight. This reduces ant interest in your home.
5. Avoid overwatering garden areas
Ants love damp soil and rotting vegetation. Therefore, avoid overwatering flowerbeds and pots near your property. Fix dripping taps or overflowing gutters too. A dry perimeter makes it harder for these insects to thrive or nest close by.
6. Use natural deterrents
Certain scents help stop ant activity. Try wiping surfaces with vinegar, lemon juice or sprinkling cinnamon or salt. These can disrupt ant trails and deter scouting behaviour. While not a guaranteed fix, these methods often reduce activity. In some cases, they may be successful to keep ants out of the house.
7. Call in professional pest control
If ants keep returning despite your efforts, it is time to call us. We can identify entry points and apply safe, targeted treatments. Professional help is often the only way to keep ants away long-term. Our licensed technicians follow UK pest control laws and use approved methods.
We deal with all species, including common black garden ants, carpenter ants and invasive pharaoh ants. Whether you have a problem at home or in a business, we are here to help. We offer both reactive treatments and preventative services. Keeping these insects out starts with a thorough inspection and a proper plan.