Ant infestations in apartments are a common nuisance faced by many homeowners, landlords, and tenants, and can quickly turn into a significant problem if not addressed promptly. In this guide we’ll provide you with effective strategies to resolve ant problems and prevent future infestations.
First, we’ll look at what attracts the ants to your apartment, before discussing the best methods for dealing with an ant infestation (including DIY methods and professional pest control). Finally, we’ll look at what preventative measures you can employ to deter the ants from returning.
Why Do Ants Invade Apartments?
So why do ants appear in your property? Ants enter apartments primarily in search of food, water, and shelter.
They are attracted to crumbs, spills, and the food in your cupboards. Even the smallest food particles can draw them in. They also need water, so are often found close to leaky pipes and faucets, pets’ water bowls, and damp areas that provide the necessary moisture ants need to survive. Finally, they seek the shelter offered by crevices and cracks in walls, gaps around windows and doors, and other small openings.
How To Deal with an Ant Infestation
You can break down the approach to dealing with an ant infestation in your apartment into four simple steps: locate the source, eliminate the ants, clean the affected area, and ant-proof your property.
North Carolina landlords are most likely to face a challenge with ant infestations during the humid summer months. Timely maintenance will limit the potential entry points and reduce the risk for your tenants, and your local Bug Out team is on hand to deal with both preventative and reactive ant control measures.
To address the necessary steps in more detail:
1. Locate the Source
Begin by observing the ants’ movements. Ants often travel in trails, leading directly to their entry point in your apartment. Follow these trails to pinpoint where they are coming from. Common entry points include cracks in walls, gaps around windows and doors, and utility lines.
In your kitchen, check under sinks, around appliances, and in pantry corners. As we mentioned above, ants are attracted to food sources, such as crumbs, spills, and improperly stored items, so inspect the kitchen, dining and food storage areas thoroughly to find where ants are most active.
Next, look outside your apartment. Ants can enter from nearby plants, in your yard, garden beds, or even the building’s foundation. Examine the exterior walls for any cracks or gaps, especially around windows and doors.
Finally, monitor areas where the ants can find moisture. Leaky faucets and pipes, damp wood, and even condensation can attract ants. Check under sinks, in bathrooms, and near any plumbing fixtures for signs of water damage or leaks.
2. Eliminate the Ants
To get rid of the infestation, set ant baits and traps in your apartment. Place these near entry points and along trails. The ants will carry the bait back to their colony, poisoning it from within. Natural repellents like lemon juice, cinnamon, and peppermint oil can also be effective when applied to entry points and known trails. If you have pets in your apartment, you might want to explore ant control methods that are safe for pets. These ensure that your furry companions remain safe while you deal with the ant problem.
3. Clean the Affected Areas
Ants leave behind scent trails that guide other ants to the food source. Cleaning the affected areas with soap and water can help eliminate these trails and make it less likely that the ants will return.
4. Seal Entry Points
Once you have identified the entry points, seal them to prevent further entry. Use caulk to fill cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and utility lines. Weather stripping can also help to prevent ants from entering through gaps under doors.
Professional Ant Exterminators
When to Call a Professional
If the ant infestation in your apartment is severe or persistent, it may be time to seek help from professional pest controllers. Professional ant exterminators have the expertise and tools to handle ant infestations effectively and safely.
- Severe Infestations: If you notice large numbers of ants or multiple nests, it’s best to call a professional.
- Persistent Problems: If ants keep returning despite your efforts, professional intervention may be needed.
Here’s what to expect from a professional pest control service:
Inspection and Identification
A pest control expert will conduct a thorough inspection to identify the ant species and locate their nests and entry point. This step is crucial for developing a targeted treatment plan.
Customized Treatment Plan
Based on the inspection, the pest control professional will create a customized treatment plan. This may include:
- Baiting: Using baits that attract ants and poison the colony.
- Spraying: Applying insecticides to entry points, trails, and nests.
- Dusting: Using insecticidal dust in wall voids and other hard-to-reach areas.
Follow-Up and Prevention
Effective pest control often requires follow-up visits to ensure the infestation is fully eradicated. The professional will also provide recommendations for preventing future infestations, such as sealing entry points and maintaining cleanliness.
How to Prevent Future Ant Infestations
Maintain Cleanliness – Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent ants from being attracted to your apartment. After meals, regularly wipe down countertops and tables. Also ensure that you sweep and mop floors on a regular basis, store food in airtight containers, empty trash bins frequently, and use bins with tight-fitting lids.
Remove Water Sources – Fix any leaky faucets or pipes promptly. Ensure that there is no standing water in sinks, showers, or pet bowls. Keeping your living space dry will make it less attractive to ants seeking moisture.
Use Natural Ant Repellents – You might also want to consider the natural remedies that can help deter ants. Amongst the more effective options are vinegar, lemon juice and essential oils. You can read more about natural ant repellents on our blog.
Dealing with ants in your apartment can be a frustrating experience, but with the right approach, you can successfully eliminate them and prevent future infestations. Learn more about our expert ant control solutions and how you can keep ants out of your property for good.