Sugar ants are attracted to sugar foods, so they can be a nuisance around the house. Infestations can quickly spread if homeowners don’t take quick action. Here are some tips for identifying a sugar ant problem early and taking steps to eliminate them.

Sightings of Ants

The earliest sign of an ant infestation is seeing live ants, usually at night. Observing a trail of ants from an exposed food source like crumbs or spills is also a clear indicator of ant activity.

Observing Ant Trails

The scent trails that sugar ants leave behind are another telltale sign of a pest problem. These lines lead to and from a food source and are easy to follow with the naked eye. Cleaning up spills, storing leftovers in airtight containers and securing trash bags will remove ants’ attraction to open food sources.

In the Kitchen

The kitchen is a common hub for Sugar Ants Removal activity, since it’s often where sweets are stored and eaten. Wiping down counters after every meal, transferring unused food to the refrigerator immediately and sweeping up regularly will limit sugar ant access to food. Keeping garbage cans sealed and emptying them frequently will prevent ants from crawling inside to search for food.

Bathrooms

Like any living creature, ants need water to survive. In dry areas, leaky pipes, sponges with moisture and a sink full of dirty dishes can all draw ants looking to hydrate. Regularly wiping down sinks, tubs and showers will help reduce the attractants of pheromones and moisture.

Outdoors

Outdoor sugar ants can be drawn to the garden by aphids, which secrete honeydew, a food for sugar ants and other insect pests. Controlling aphids and other garden pests will reduce the number of sugar ants that may move indoors and seek out food sources like your home.

Natural Repellants

A variety of natural household items can deter ants, including peppermint oil, citrus peels and coffee grounds. These repellents can be placed along entry points to deter ants, as well as around the house to keep them away.

Other natural repellents include lemon eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil and cinnamon oil. These oils can be diluted with water, then sprayed or dabbed on entry points and other areas to deter ants.

The most effective long-term solution for preventing ant problems is to contact a professional ant control service. An exterminator will be able to locate the ant nest and destroy it at the source. They can also seal entry points and help you put into place preventative measures to minimize future pest infestations. A professional can provide a safe and effective ant control treatment while considering the ecology of your specific pest problem. Choosing an integrated pest management (IPM) service that utilizes both integrated and green methods will ensure lasting results. Read on to learn more about the Gregory IPM approach to preventing and controlling pests like sugar ants.