· 8 min read

How to Get Rid of Ants in Your Home

Learn effective methods to eliminate ants and prevent them from returning to your home.

Introduction

Ants are one of the most common household pests in New Zealand. While they play important roles in our ecosystem, they can become a nuisance when they invade our homes. This guide will help you understand how to effectively eliminate ants and prevent future infestations using both natural and chemical methods.

Effective Ant Control Solutions

Natural Solutions

Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle

Effectiveness
Implementation: Easy
Steps:
  • Mix solution in spray bottle
  • Spray along ant trails
  • Apply around entry points
  • Reapply daily as needed

Diatomaceous Earth

Natural powder that dehydrates ants

Effectiveness
Implementation: Medium
Steps:
  • Sprinkle along ant paths
  • Apply around entry points
  • Keep powder dry
  • Reapply after cleaning

Essential Oils

Peppermint, tea tree, or citrus oils as deterrents

Effectiveness
Implementation: Easy
Steps:
  • Mix with water in spray bottle
  • Apply to entry points
  • Refresh every few days
  • Use multiple oil types

Chemical Solutions

Ant Bait Stations

Slow-acting poison that workers carry back to colony

Effectiveness
Implementation: Easy
Steps:
  • Place near ant trails
  • Keep away from food areas
  • Monitor bait consumption
  • Replace as needed

Barrier Sprays

Chemical barrier around home perimeter

Effectiveness
Implementation: Medium
Steps:
  • Apply around foundation
  • Spray entry points
  • Create continuous barrier
  • Reapply monthly

Prevention Tips

Seal Entry Points

Block potential ant entry points around your home

  • Check for cracks in walls
  • Seal gaps around pipes
  • Repair damaged window screens
  • Close off utility entry points

Remove Food Sources

Eliminate accessible food that attracts ants

  • Store food in airtight containers
  • Clean spills immediately
  • Keep pet food sealed
  • Empty garbage regularly

Maintain Cleanliness

Regular cleaning to prevent ant attraction

  • Wipe counters daily
  • Vacuum regularly
  • Clean food preparation areas
  • Remove outdoor debris

Manage Moisture

Control moisture that attracts ants

  • Fix leaky pipes
  • Improve drainage
  • Reduce humidity
  • Address water damage

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Only Killing Visible Ants

Focusing on visible ants without addressing the colony won't solve the problem long-term.

Solution: Use baits that workers carry back to eliminate the entire colony.

Improper Bait Placement

Placing baits in wrong locations or disturbing ant trails reduces effectiveness.

Solution: Place baits along active ant trails and don't disturb their pheromone paths.

Using the Wrong Treatment

Different ant species require different treatment approaches.

Solution: Identify ant species first and use appropriate treatment methods.

Inconsistent Prevention

Stopping prevention measures after ants disappear leads to reinfestation.

Solution: Maintain consistent prevention practices even after ants are gone.

When to Call Professional Help

While many ant problems can be handled with DIY methods, some situations require professional intervention:

  • Large or multiple colonies
  • Persistent infestations despite DIY treatments
  • Carpenter ants causing structural damage
  • Ants in sensitive areas (e.g., electrical equipment)
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