How to Get Rid of ANTS Naturally

Knowing how to get rid of ants naturally and in other ways can mean the difference between a summer of peace in your home or a season of being invaded by these creepy, crawly creatures. This article will explore several ways of getting rid of ants without using pesticides. Learn about getting rid of ants in house, getting rid of ants in car, getting rid of ants in bathrooms and even getting rid of ants without killing them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Corn meal
• Cucumber peels
• Preventative techniques

1. Determine the source of attraction for the ants. There are many reasons why ants might be entering your home. One of the most common culprits is some type of food crumbs. Look for sources such as cat or dog food bowls, the area around a high chair and crumbs inside cabinets. If you can remove the source of attraction, you may be able to prevent a reinfestation.

2. Kill 'em with -- cornmeal? That's right. Cornmeal is a natural product that will not harm children or pets, but which the ants cannot digest, effecting getting rid of ants in your home. In addition, the ants will pick it up and carry it back to the nest in many cases, sharing with other ants and even possibly the queen. The ants will die from this method, but it is inexpensive and effective. Typically, ants will be gone within 24 hours. Simply scatter the cornmeal over the area where the ants are crawling. Once they are gone or deceased, simply sweep and toss.

3. Get cool with cukes. That's right. Scatter cucumber peels in your doorways and anywhere you see ants entering. This is a terrific natural remedy for ants. Many ants do not like cucumbers, especially bitter cucumbers, such as those used for pickling.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many other natural items you can use to repel ants. If you can track down the point where they are entering your home, you can place out a line of lemon oil, mint leaves, cloves, and cayenne paper.
• Always be aware of pets and children in your home. If you have a baby that is crawling, you won't want to put down cayenne pepper, which might get in baby's eyes or irritate his skin.

[bluemoongoddess]

on 8/18/2009 Thanks for the helpful advice, ants are a real pesky problem in the summer time.

[lorisoard]

on 7/12/2009 Hi all. Another thing that has helped us this summer is keeping crumbs swept up as much as possible. It can be a challenge, but it does help cut down on the infestation. That and the cornmeal is all I've been using this year. I have found the biggest culprit is the pet food. I have one dog that likes to nibble throughout the day and they are drawn to her food bowl. I now have it in the bigger, shallow bowl of water and it seems to be working.

[mmyers28]

on 7/6/2009 Well - who knew? Cornmeal is on my shopping list for today, that's for sure.
And thanks for the tip about floating the cat's kibble. Hopefully I won't need to do it -
Thanks !

[tinksmagic]

on 5/20/2009 I am SO trying cornmeal, we have had a problem with carpenter ants since my neighbors started spraying.

[campanaro]

on 5/18/2009 I've got pros who can't seem to get rid of them. If this works, I'm getting my money back. Thanks for the tip. Rec 5*