It starts with a crumb.
That teeny-tiny crumb under the toaster you swore you got last week suddenly turns into a line of ants parading through your kitchen like they’re rehearsing for Ant Mardi Gras.
You’re not alone in this struggle. Kitchens nationwide, from Arizona to Massachusetts, often fall victim to these determined pests, especially as the warmer months arrive.
But keeping them out is easier than you think, as long as you know the tricks of the trade.
We’ll walk you through how to keep ants out of your kitchen with a plan of attack that even the most stubborn colony can’t resist.
Why Ants Love Your Kitchen
Ants are surprisingly sophisticated little scavengers. When a single scout ant finds food, it leaves behind a pheromone trail to lead others back to the jackpot.
That’s how one crumb by the fridge can quickly turn into a buffet for an entire colony.
Some popular reasons your kitchen could attract ants include:
- Crumbs on the counter or floor
- Leftover food remnants (even the invisible kind)
- Moisture near sinks and garbage disposals
- Fruit left out to ripen
Spotting ants often means survival mode kicking in for these tiny creatures. But it’s time to show them your kitchen is not their buffet.
How to Keep Ants Out of Your Kitchen: Step by Step
Follow these six steps to reclaim your kitchen and keep it pest-free:
1. Clean Up and Seal Food Properly
Sounds simple, right? But you’d be amazed how often crumbs and spills hide in plain sight. To avoid this problem:
- Wipe down countertops daily.
- Sweep or vacuum floors thoroughly, especially under appliances.
- Store food in sealed containers, especially sugary items like cereal or snacks.
- Clean up spills immediately (ants love sugary drinks like soda and juice).
If you’re in the middle of an ant invasion, tracing their trail can help you identify food sources or weak points in your cleaning habits.
2. Dry It Out
Ants need water as much as they need food. If your kitchen offers easy access to moisture, it’s like setting up an all-inclusive resort for them.
- Fix any leaky pipes or dripping faucets.
- Avoid leaving dishes soaking overnight.
- Wipe up water around sinks and garbage disposals.
Ultimately, reducing moisture disrupts their access to one of their essential needs.
3. Seal Entry Points
Those tiny cracks along window ledges, baseboards, or around doors? They’re ant superhighways.
- Inspect your kitchen for cracks or openings where ants might sneak in.
- Use caulk to seal any gaps in walls, doors, or windows.
- Check door sweeps and weatherstripping to ensure a tight seal.
Sealing entry points keeps new scouts from turning your space into their new hunting grounds.
4. Use Natural Remedies as Deterrents
While chemical sprays work, natural barriers can be equally effective without harming your environment. Ants dislike many strong smells, so try these options:
- Sprinkle cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or turmeric along suspected entry points.
- Create a homemade repellent by mixing white vinegar and water (equal parts) and spray ant trails.
- Use essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil around doors and windows.
5. Set Ant Baits Strategically
When cleaning and sealing aren’t enough, ant baits may be able to help you manage colonies.
- Place ant bait near activity zones, like under the sink or in corners.
- Non-repellent baits are carried back to the colony, targeting the root of the infestation.
- Avoid spraying when using baits; sprays can deter ants before they interact with the bait.
Keep in mind that you’ll want to use the right type of ant bait for the specific kind of ant you’re dealing with. Some nest in soils, others occupy small cavities like wall voids. Some ants prefer sweet baits, others like things on the savory side.
Not sure what you’re dealing with? Collect a few ants in a vial, add a few drops of 70% alcohol, and bring it to your local county extension office.
6. Call in the Professionals
If the ants persist despite your efforts, it’s time to bring in the big guns. Companies like proof. pest control specialize in ridding homes of pests using industry-leading techniques.
Whatever species has set up shop in your kitchen, they’ll know how to identify and eliminate the problem most efficiently.
Contact proof. pest control here for a free quote and guaranteed peace of mind.
Say Goodbye to Kitchen Invaders
a sweet ant on a sugar spoon in the dirty kitchen, ant plague problem starting, copy space, spot focus
Keeping ants out of your kitchen may feel like a never-ending battle, but don’t sweat it. Now that you know how to keep ants out of the kitchen on your own, you just need a little help from proof. pest control to help you keep it pest-free long into the future.
Want reliable results fast? Call proof. pest control today for your pest-free guarantee or schedule your free quote online. Whether you’re in New York, Arizona, Massachusetts, or Utah, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t wait until it’s an ant parade. Stop pests in their tracks with proof. pest control.
Did You Know?
Ants are among the most diverse creatures on the planet, with over 15,700 species and subspecies identified worldwide. Some ants can even lift up to 50 times their body weight! While their teamwork and strength are impressive, they’re better admired far away from your food.
FAQ
Why do I keep getting ants in my kitchen even though it’s clean?
Even small missed crumbs or moisture sources, like damp sponges or unwiped sink areas, can attract ants. Check for hidden food residues or leaks that might be inviting them inside.
Are ant baits better than sprays?
Yes, especially for long-term control. Sprays and other repellents often kill visible ants but fail to address the colony. Baits are carried back to the nest, targeting the colony at its source.
How do I know what kind of ants I’m dealing with?
Different ants have different behaviors. Carpenter ants may target wood, while sugar ants are after sugary treats. If unsure, take a photo of them or collect a sample for identification by a pest control professional.
Can I permanently keep ants out of my home?
While you can reduce your risk significantly with proper cleaning, sealing, and deterrents, occasional ants might still sneak in. Regular inspection and prevention practices go a long way.