Ants are unwanted guests in any home, and though they don't generally pose a serious threat to your health, they can bite or sting. Some species may cause structural damage as well. Having to share your home with these uninvited nuisances can be stressful, but there are a few steps any homeowner can take to decrease the chances of an infestation. Here’s how to get started.

How to Keep Ants Away From Your Home

1. Make Housecleaning a Priority

The main reason ants enter homes is that their super-acute senses of smell have detected some type of food source inside. It may be as simple as a small pile of crumbs in the sofa cushions or traces of leftover food on dirty dishes in the sink.

Rid your home of these attractions as much as possible by maintaining a regular housecleaning routine. Sweep and vacuum floors and upholstery; wash dishes immediately after meals and snacks; and wipe down all counters, surfaces, and flooring around doors and windows. An effective homemade cleaner is a 50:50 solution of water and white vinegar, as the latter ingredient will drive away ants.

2. Seal Points of Entry

Do a comprehensive visual inspection of your doors, windows, and baseboards. Look for tiny holes, cracks, or crevices through which ants can enter. Bear in mind that it doesn't take much space for these pests to get in, so a careful assessment is important.

If there are openings in walls or baseboards, close them up with spackle. Seal access points around doors or windows with silicone caulk. Check for holes in screens as well; most screens can be replaced cheaply or repaired easily with a DIY repair kit.

2. Be Mindful of Your Pet's Food

Ants aren't just drawn to human food; they love pet food, too. If your pets have specific mealtimes, feed them at the appointed times and immediately wash and clean their bowls with soap and water when they're done.

If your pets are grazers, invest in ant-proof bowls, which are raised off the ground and contain a sticky surface underneath to discourage pests. Store their kibble in airtight containers to eliminate the tempting smells and easy access of pet-food bags.

In some cases, even the most diligent prevention efforts can't prevent an ant infestation. For those times, trust the pest control professionals at Dick's Fumigation Services. With more than 65 years of experience, they serve the homes and businesses of Wailuku, HI, and throughout the Island. From termites and bedbugs to fleas, ticks, and ants, they have the solutions you need to remove unwanted pests. Call (808) 244-7496 to request a quote today or visit them online for their full list of services.