Ants are a frequent and frustrating issue for many Australian households, often appearing in kitchens, pantries, gardens, and bathrooms. While small in size, ants can become a major nuisance when they form large colonies and invade your living spaces. Whether they’re attracted to food crumbs, moisture, or sweet spills, once they’ve found a way in, they tend to stick around. If ants have taken over your space, here are five trusted methods to help you get rid of them quickly and safely. For more stubborn infestations, seeking ant control in Melbourne can be a long-term solution to keeping your home ant-free.
Keep Your Home Clean and Sealed
The first step to managing an ant problem is eliminating the very things that attract them—primarily food and water. Ants are expert scavengers and will quickly find any leftover crumbs, sugary spills, or pet food that’s been left out.
Wipe down countertops daily, sweep the floors, and ensure food is sealed in airtight containers. Don’t forget to check under kitchen appliances and in cupboards, as ants can access even the smallest cracks.
It’s also crucial to seal any entry points. Check windowsills, skirting boards, and doors for gaps and cracks. Using caulk or weather stripping can help block ants from entering in the first place. Prevention, in this case, is often the most effective form of control.
Use Natural Remedies
If you’re after a non-toxic and environmentally friendly approach, several natural ingredients work well in repelling ants.
- Vinegar is a powerful ant deterrent. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it along ant trails, entry points, and affected surfaces. The strong scent disrupts their communication and masks their scent trails.
- Lemon juice works similarly. Its acidity breaks down the ants’ trail and acts as a barrier. Spray it around windows, doorways, and benchtops.
- Cinnamon and peppermint oil are also effective. Ants dislike strong smells, and these options can be sprinkled or sprayed in areas where ants are frequently seen.
Natural remedies are perfect for smaller infestations or for people who prefer a chemical-free environment. However, they may not fully eliminate larger colonies hidden within walls or foundations.
Set Baits to Target Colonies
When natural repellents aren’t enough, using ant baits can be a more targeted approach. Unlike sprays that only kill visible ants, baits are carried back to the colony, poisoning the source of the infestation.
Place store-bought ant baits along trails or near entry points. The worker ants will consume the bait and bring it back to feed the queen and larvae. Within a few days, this can lead to the collapse of the entire colony.
Avoid cleaning the area immediately after placing the bait, as removing their trail too soon can prevent other ants from finding the bait. Patience is key—while this method takes a little longer, it is often more effective in eliminating the infestation entirely.
Outdoor Maintenance and Yard Control
Many ant infestations start from the garden. Overgrown vegetation, mulch, and even rubbish bins can serve as perfect nesting grounds. To reduce the risk of ants moving indoors, proper outdoor maintenance is just as important.
Trim trees and bushes that touch the house, as these can act as ant highways. Keep mulch and compost piles away from the building’s foundation, and ensure bins are tightly sealed.
You can also treat your yard with ant repellents or granules made for outdoor use. These products form a protective barrier that helps prevent ants from migrating indoors. Consistent outdoor care helps reduce the likelihood of recurring indoor problems.
Call in Professional Help
Despite your best efforts, some infestations may be too large or deeply hidden to manage on your own. That’s when calling in the professionals becomes essential.
A licensed pest control expert can identify the species of ants, locate the nest, and apply targeted treatments to eliminate the problem from its source. Professionals use stronger and more reliable solutions than over-the-counter products, and they can also advise you on long-term prevention strategies.
When choosing professional services, it’s a good idea to inquire about the ant removal cost in Melbourne, as prices can vary depending on the severity of the infestation and the size of your property. Though it’s an upfront investment, expert treatment often saves time and prevents future issues—making it well worth the cost.
Prevention Tips
Getting rid of ants takes a combination of cleanliness, strategy, and sometimes expert help. By removing attractants, sealing entry points, using natural remedies or baits, and maintaining both indoor and outdoor spaces, you can greatly reduce the chances of an infestation.
However, ant problems can escalate quickly, especially when colonies are hidden in walls or underground. If you find that DIY methods aren’t giving you long-term results, it may be time to call a professional pest control service to take care of the issue efficiently and thoroughly.
Take Action Before the Damage Worsens
Dealing with ants in your home? Don’t wait for the problem to get worse. For fast, safe, and reliable solutions, contact Ant Pest Control Melbourne today. Our team of experienced technicians is ready to help you eliminate ants and prevent future infestations. Call now on 03 8592 4707 to schedule your inspection or learn more about our services.