4 All-Natural Ways to Get Rid of Ants in Your Home Permanently

Ants may be tiny, but they can be persistent pests if they get into your home or infest your yard. From eating your food to invading your personal space, ants can wreak havoc. Although they can multiply quickly, there are steps you can take to prevent and get rid of ants permanently. Pest control experts offer their best tips to banish and prevent ants in your home, protecting your home and peace of mind. 

Natural Remedies

Try these natural remedies as your first line of defense against ants. These techniques do not rely on harmful chemicals, minimizing risks to plants and animals. 

Diatomaceous Earth

“A natural approach can be effective if applied consistently,” says Richard Christner, co-owner of Whitmore Pest and Wildlife Control, Inc. “One method is to create a barrier using diatomaceous earth, which dehydrates ants upon contact.” To keep ants away from your home, spread diatomaceous earth on places they may enter, such as windowsills, entryways, or along baseboards. 

Vinegar and Water

“Another option is using a mixture of vinegar and water to wipe down surfaces, which disrupts the ants’ scent trails,” Christner says. To make a vinegar ant repellent, combine equal parts vinegar and water and use it on your floors, countertops, and any areas where you see ants. If you find ants, you can spray them directly with the solution and dispose of them.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is another natural deterrent for ants that disrupts their scent trails. To make a non-toxic ant spray with lemon juice, mix three parts water with one part lemon juice. Spray places ants gather, such as kitchen counters, sinks, baseboards, and entryways. 

Essential Oils

“If ants enter the home, then the use of an essential oil spray such as thyme oil can kill ants,” says Bob Gilbert, a board-certified entomologist at Blue Sky Pest Control. Essential oils such as peppermint, thyme, citrus, lavender, and tea tree oil can discourage ants from settling in your home. Add 15 or more drops of essential oil to a spray bottle with distilled water. Shake well and spray the areas of your home where ants are most likely to enter. 

Chemical Treatments

If natural remedies aren’t eliminating ants in your home, chemical solutions can be more potent. “Bait placements are particularly useful, as they allow ants to carry the insecticide back to the colony, ensuring more comprehensive control," Christner says. This will kill whole colonies.

Liquid solutions can also work well when used with baits. “Liquids can be used to soak ant colonies to quicken elimination and work well in conjunction with baits,” Gilbert says. “Baits should be placed outside around the colony or inside near where ants are seen. Remember, always use these products according to the label and away from where pets and young children can reach them.”

Professional Pest Control

If you’ve tried different DIY methods to eliminate ants from your home and are still having ant issues, it’s time for professional help. A professional exterminator can identify the root source of your problem and eradicate ants from your home. 

“Large infestations or repeated occurrences can indicate a deeper issue that requires expert intervention," Christner says. "A professional can identify the root cause and apply safe, effective, and long-lasting treatments.”

When you’re searching for a pest control expert, consider their reputation, experience, and credentials. You can look at online reviews, ask friends for recommendations, and do background research to ensure you find the right exterminator to get rid of your ant infestation. 

How to Prevent Ants from Coming Back

According to Christner, the key to preventing ants is "proactive maintenance." Below are steps you can take to ensure your home is ant-proof.

Seal Doors and Windows

Christner recommends sealing any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and foundations to eliminate entry points. Caulk, tape, weather stripping, and mesh screens can all help do the job.

Keep Food Out of Sight

Removing potential food sources is one of the most critical steps to get rid of ants. Keep your counters, tables, and floors clean, and wipe or sweep up any food crumbs after eating. "Store food in airtight containers and clean up spills immediately to remove any potential attractants," Christner adds.

Check Water Sources

Ants can also enter your home in search of water. Make sure your sinks and showers aren’t dripping to provide a water supply for invading ants. If an ant finds food or water in your home, they will lead more ants to the source, which can quickly escalate to an ant infestation.

“Eliminating dripping showers and sinks can eliminate thirsty ants from entering your home during those hot summers,” says Gilbert. He adds that doing dishes frequently, wiping food and grease residues off counters and appliances along with frequent vacuuming can also reduce access to food.

"Think like an ant. A scout enters your home looking for resources for the colony," he says. "If it finds food or water, then it will recruit others to take advantage of it. Keeping the home clean will minimize these invasions.”

Regular Inspections

Christner also suggests regularly inspecting and trimming vegetation near your home to prevent ants from gaining easy access.

"Also, scheduling routine maintenance services with a pest control professional can proactively address potential issues before they become significant problems," he adds. "These periodic services help catch any potential problems early, ensuring your home remains ant-free year-round.”