How to Get Rid of Ants?

Although mostly harmless, ants can carry bacteria and become a source of disease transmission when they come into contact with certain surfaces or food. Knowing how to get rid of ants naturally in different types of facilities is very useful.

How to get rid of ants?  

Ants live in colonies, governed by hierarchies, and perform specific tasks within the anthill. Their appearance is due to various factors, such as the changing seasons, becoming more prevalent during the warmer months, but also due to poor hygiene or the presence of food. 

Measures to prevent the presence of ants.

• Keep spaces clean and tidy. 
• Keep food in sealed containers.
• Avoiding leaving food scraps or dirt. 
• Seal any holes or cracks that could serve as access points for ants.

How to get rid of ants naturally?

The following natural products can be used to eliminate the presence of ants. 

1. White vinegar.  It can be used on various surfaces and works to repel and kill ants. Ants can smell vinegar even when it dries.
2. Lemon:  Spraying or wiping with lemon juice discourages ants, eliminates pheromone trails, and masks food odors. Leaving lemon slices in the kitchen will prevent ants from appearing in that area. 
3. Black pepper:  It’s a natural ant deterrent, with an irritating scent for insects. You can sprinkle pepper near appliances and baseboards to keep ants away.
4. Cornstarch:  Sprinkle it on the ant nest and then throw water on them to get rid of a large group of ants.
5. Chalk:  Its repellent properties come from calcium carbonate which interferes with the ability of ants to track the pheromone trail.
6. Boric acid:  This compound erodes the outer layers and stomachs of ants. It is ideal for gardens, but should be kept out of reach of pets.
7. Salt:  It is mixed with pepper to be used as a powerful natural ant repellent.
8. Cinnamon:  It is quite effective in essential oil form as a repellent and insecticide. It can be mixed with a bait for greater effectiveness.
9. Peppermint:  Peppermint essential oil also repels ants. You can use it by mixing it in a spray bottle of water, then spraying the mixture on different surfaces. 
10. Diatomaceous Earth:  This is a type of plankton composed of the fossilized remains of aquatic organisms called diatoms. It kills ants and other insects by drying them out, absorbing the oils into their exoskeletons. Avoid inhaling diatomaceous earth or direct contact with your skin.

In the event of an ant infestation, it is advisable to consult a professional, as more complex measures may be necessary, including:

• Identify the colony:  instead of killing the first ant that appears, it is suggested to follow its path, since they usually collect food and move it to the nest, which is usually deep and intricate.
• Use bait:  bait can be left in areas where they have been seen entering and repair such cracks.
• For gardens:  a bait can be used to attract ants to specific places and thus prevent them from entering the house; the use of these techniques must be safe for family and pets.