How To Get Rid Of Ants Without Pesticides

Ants, the perennial problem of many homeowners. We try throwing bug sprays and bombs at them, only to mask and put off the problem. But with more than 12,500 species of ants classified and more on the way, you need to know whom you are up against. Believe it or not, there are great ways to put out the “unwelcome” mat and get those guys to stay out and stay away for good. It is all a matter of knowing the ants natural likes and dislikes. Below is a short list on how to get rid of those pesky ants without resorting to chemical warfare.

Cream of Wheat: Ants love food, so give them something that tastes great but will, in the end, tie on a pair of cement shoes. The reason ants are getting into your house in the first place is because they love your food as much as you do. They are looking for sugars, carbohydrates, proteins, and grease. So make sure that 100% of your food is stored in airtight containers. This will not only keep your food fresh but it will make sure they have a diminished reason to enter you home.

Next, scout out the ways those little buggers are getting into your home. Find the cracks, crevices, and gaps that allow them in. Count how many entrances there are and create small, shallow cups out of tin foil for each one. They should be about two inches in diameter with just enough lip to contain a small mound of cream of wheat. Place a small mound of dry, uncooked cream of wheat in each tin foil cup and place them next to the ant trails. The ants will take the cream of wheat back to the colony, share, and eat it. Once they all eat it, it will expand in their bellies and die. Good for you, bad for them.

Red Chili Powder: Ants hate red chili powder. They just cannot stand the stuff. The great thing about this trick is that you don’t need any particular brand. The only thing you need to make sure of is that you have fresh red chili powder. Otherwise, water, a bowl, and a stirring spoon are all you need.

Start by mixing the red chili powder with water in the mixing bowl. The object is to create a paste. This paste will fill in the small crevices entrances into your home so it should be able to somewhat hold its shape. Once you have your chili paste created, find places around the interior and exterior of the home where the ants are getting in. Fill all cracks and crevices with the paste. Be sure to put a generous coating on. Continue to do this for a few days until you see decreased ant activity.

With these to weapons at your disposal, you should be able to keep those tiny invaders at bay. Remember, ants are crafty and stubborn, so you must beat them at their own game. Don’t be afraid to experiment, try variations, and adapt to the particular type of ant you are dealing with. But finding out what ants like and don’t like is the best way to combat them. It is your house, enjoy it, ant free.