Pest control can often be a controversial topic. After all, we don’t want bugs living with us yet we appreciate that we all share this planet and have our place in it. Add to this conundrum the fact that many chemicals used for pest control can be toxic to our families and pets.
What to do?
While pest problems vary depending on where we live, one constant critter that we all battle is ants. Therefore, we’re looking for the middle ground to determine what are the best ant killers, what the safest options are, and how we can prevent infestations.
Read on for some sage advice from the professionals.
Southern Maryland Ant Issues
Which ants are you familiar with in your space? The most common ants found in Maryland and surrounding areas are:
- Carpenter ants
- Odorous house ants
- Thief ants
- Acrobat ants
Whether they are destroying your wood or infecting your home with an offensive smell, none of these pests are welcome guests. As with any pest issue, the longer you leave it, the worse it gets. It’s time to take action.
What Are the Best Ant Killers?
Prevention or cure? Whatever you prefer, there are numerous ways to tackle this problem to avoid ants damaging your property or infesting your space. Remember though, that it’s neither feasible nor possible to remove all pests from your home and garden. Insects, especially ants, are a valuable part of our ecosystem. However, we just don’t want them in our house, right?
Ant Prevention
If you’re not a fan of pest control chemicals, then start with preventative measures. Ants are opportunistic and not fussy about what they consume.
We recommend:
- Remove their food source by keeping a clean kitchen
- Avoid leaving dishes around the house or leaving food out
- Store all food items in sealed containers or in the fridge
- Keep rubbish areas away from the house and as clean as possible
- Use door sweeps on external doors
- Seal up cracks and holes in the walls and foundation to close off nesting opportunities
Natural Ant Treatments
When the problem isn’t too severe, some have tried mixing a home ant repellent solution. A spray bottle with a teaspoon of alcohol, a squirt of dish washing soap, and some water will both repel and kill ants which you can then vacuum up and dispose of.
Another popular choice in safe ant killers is diatomaceous earth which is effective against a range of bugs. This odor-neutral powder can be sprinkled in and around affected areas, killing off and deterring ants from setting up a colony nearby.
Over-the-Counter Ant Killers
Foggers, bug sprays, and ant traps are common chemical solutions to ant infestations, and they do offer some respite. On the flip side, however, they are harmful to children and pets and need to be treated with caution.
Ant bait has the benefits of treating the immediate problem, but also offers a longer-lasting solution, as it negatively affects the ant colony.
Pest Control in Maryland
In many cases, people try home remedies or off-the-shelf ant control chemicals to find the best ant killers, but the problem persists. If you’re wondering how to get rid of ants in your home for good, then we’d love to assist.
Our local team is focused on offering solutions using the least amount of pest control products. Our customers appreciate this planet-friendly approach, along with our years of experience in treating all types of pests in the home or office.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions. We look forward to your call.
If you live in Southern Maryland, or Northern Virginia and need help please call us now or visit our website here.