Carpenter ants can be a nuisance, especially if they invade your home. Not only do they cause damage to wooden structures, but they can also contaminate food and cause allergies. You’re in luck if you want to eliminate carpenter ants without using dangerous chemicals. There are several natural ways to eliminate carpenter ants that are safe and effective.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, which are small aquatic creatures. It dehydrates the ants and disrupts their exoskeletons. You can use diatomaceous earth to treat locations where you’ve noticed carpenter ants. When working with diatomaceous earth, wear a mask because it can irritate your lungs.
Boric Acid
Boric acid is a naturally occurring ant-toxic chemical. Combine boric acid with sugar or honey and place it near carpenter ant nests. The ants will be drawn to the bait, eat it, and return it to their nest. This will exterminate both the ants and the colony.
Essential Oils
Essential oils such as peppermint, clove, and tea tree oil are natural insecticides that can repel carpenter ants. In areas where carpenter ants are seen, spray a few drops of essential oil with water. Cotton balls can be soaked in essential oil and placed in ant-infested areas.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural cleaner that can also be used to repel ants. Spray an equal mixture of vinegar and water around the locations where ants are active. You can also use vinegar to clean surfaces ants have been crawling on.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an ant repellant that can also be used to kill ants. Sprinkle cinnamon around the areas where you have seen carpenter ants. You can also make a paste with cinnamon and water and apply it to areas where ants are active.
Use Hot Water
Carpenter ants can be killed by pouring hot water into their colony. Boil a large pot of water and pour it directly into the nest. Be careful when doing this, as boiling water can be dangerous.
Use Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural ant repellent that also masks their scent trails. Squeeze fresh lemon juice around the locations where carpenter ants have been spotted. A cotton ball dipped in lemon juice and left near ant hills can also be effective.
Use Bay Leaves
Bay leaves are a natural insecticide that can repel carpenter ants. Crush some bay leaves and sprinkle them around where you have seen carpenter ants. You can also place bay leaves in your pantry or other areas where you store food to prevent ants from getting in.
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Conclusion
These natural methods can help you eliminate carpenter ants without using harmful chemicals. You should contact a pest control company if you have a large infestation. Fullscope Pest Control is a trustworthy and professional pest control company that can assist you in getting rid of carpenter ants and other pests in your home. Our exterminators can assess the situation and provide effective and safe solutions to eliminate the infestation. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
