How to Get Rid of Ants in Your Home for Good?

Ants may be tiny, but they’re one of the most persistent household pests around. Once they’ve found their way into your pantry, bathroom, or kitchen, they bring their friends, and before you know it, you’ve got a full-blown invasion. The good news? You can get rid of them for good. Whether you’re looking for quick fixes or natural methods, this guide covers everything you need to know about how to get rid of ants in the house permanently.

ants surrounding a winged insect and a large group of ants moving in a trail.

Why Do Ants Keep Coming Back in My House?

You wipe the bench, spray the trail, and still, they return. So, why do ants keep coming back in my house?

Ants don’t just wander; they follow scent trails left behind by their colony. Even if you kill a few scouts, the trail remains. Plus, things like food crumbs, leaky taps, and even your pet’s bowl can attract them back.

If you don’t target the source (aka the nest), you’re basically putting a band-aid on the problem.

Signs You Might Have an Ant Problem

You might already have ants setting up shop without even knowing it. Look out for:

  • Lines of ants along walls, benchtops, or skirting boards.
  • Ants are clustering around sugar jars or rubbish bins.
  • Ants are coming from cracks or holes in walls and windows.
  • Small mounds of dirt near your foundation (that’s a nest!)

Best Way to Get Rid of Ants in Kitchen

The best way to get rid of ants in kitchen spaces is to start by removing the reason they’re visiting – food.

  • Wipe benches and spills regularly (especially sweet or greasy ones).
  • Keep sugar, flour, and cereal in sealed containers.
  • Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
  • Empty your bin frequently and wash the lid.

If you do this consistently, ants have no reason to stick around.

Natural Ways to Get Rid of Ants

If you prefer a chemical-free approach, there are plenty of natural ways to get rid of ants that are surprisingly effective:

  • White vinegar and water spray: Wipe down trails and entry points.
  • Lemon juice: Ants hate citrous.
  • Cinnamon or clove powder: Sprinkle along windowsills and cracks.
  • Peppermint oil spray: Deters ants and smells fresh.
  • Coffee grounds: Place near garden beds and outdoor entry points.

These home remedies to eliminate ants are safe, affordable, and often things you already have in your pantry.

How to Kill Ants Permanently in Your Home?

Killing ants you see crawling around isn’t enough. To achieve permanent ant removal, you need to eliminate the nest.

Here’s how:

  • Use slow-acting ant baits. Ants take the bait back to their colony and feed it to the queen.
  • Pour boiling water into visible outdoor nests.
  • Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the home’s perimeter.
  • Hire pest control if the colony is inside your walls.

If you’re serious about how to kill ants permanently in your home, combining these with prevention measures is your best bet.

Get Rid of Ants Fast: Quick Fixes

Need an emergency solution? Here’s how to get rid of ants fast:

  • Spray soapy water directly on ant trails.
  • Use commercial ant killer sprays (temporarily effective).
  • Block immediate entry points with tape or sealant.
  • Wipe away scent trails with vinegar or citrous cleaner.

Fast fixes work, but remember, they’re just that. You’ll still need to go after the nest for long-term relief.

How to Stop Ants from Coming Into the House?

Ant-proofing your home is the smartest thing you can do. Here’s how to stop ants from coming into the house:

  • Seal gaps in windows, doors, and floorboards.
  • Fix dripping taps and remove standing water.
  • Keep garden beds trimmed away from the house.
  • Store food in airtight containers.

These are small steps that make a huge difference in preventing ant invasions.

How to Keep Ants Out of Your House Naturally?

Here’s a routine that works if you’re wondering how to keep ants out of your house naturally:

  • Mix vinegar and essential oils for a weekly wipe-down.
  • Set citrous peels near known entry points.
  • Keep dry pet food stored in sealed tubs.
  • Vacuum often, especially around baseboards and corners.

Doing this regularly helps stop colonies from even considering your home in the first place.

Australia-Specific Ant Issues

In Australia, we’re dealing with some tenacious ant species, like Argentine ants, bull ants, and coastal brown ants. These guys thrive in hot, dry conditions and often build nests under concrete, tiles, or garden beds right up against your home. Ant infestations spike during warmer months. Consistency in prevention efforts pays off then.

When to Call Pest Control?

Sometimes, it’s just too much to handle on your own. Call in the experts if:

  • You’ve tried everything, but the ants still return.
  • You notice winged ants indoors (a sign of a large colony).
  • You find multiple nests on your property.
  • You suspect ants are inside walls or roof cavities.

Pest control can deliver permanent ant removal with safe, targeted treatments.

Conclusion: Ant-Free Living Is Possible

Getting ants out of your home doesn’t have to feel like a never-ending fight. From natural remedies to targeted treatments, these tips will help you get rid of ants in the house and keep them away for good. For expert help and permanent ant removal, trust the professionals at Magic Pest Control. We offer safe, effective solutions tailored to your home. Call us today on 0489 908 469 and say goodbye to ants, for good. Your home deserves to be pest-free, naturally and permanently.

FAQs

Ques 1: Can pets bring ants into the house?
Ans:
Yes, pet food and water bowls can attract ants. Keep areas clean to help get rid of ants fast and safely.

Ques 2: Do weather changes affect ant activity?
Ans: Absolutely! Ants become more active in summer. To achieve permanent ant removal, start prevention early in the season before colonies grow.

Ques 3: Can ants damage electrical wiring or appliances?
Ans: Yes, some species nest in appliances. If you want to get rid of ants in the house, check behind fridges and microwaves too.

Ques 4: Is it safe to spray vinegar on indoor plants for ants?
Ans: Use diluted vinegar carefully around plants. It’s a great method if you’re exploring natural ways to get rid of ants near pots.

Ques 5: Will keeping my lights off stop ants at night?
Ans: Not really. Ants don’t follow light like bugs do. Focus instead on how to stop ants from coming into the house with sealing and cleaning.

Author
Suzanne
  • 6 min read
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