How to Get Rid of Black Ants: Natural Remedies and Home Strategies That Work
Black ants invading your kitchen, walls, or pantry can be a major nuisance. Whether you’re dealing with a full-blown trail or just spotting a few wanderers, it’s crucial to act fast. If you’re searching for how to get rid of ants in the house, especially in the kitchen, or looking for natural remedies, this guide has got you covered.
Why Are Ants Entering Your Home?
Ants are attracted to:
- Food crumbs (especially sugary items)
- Water sources (sinks, damp areas)
- Open garbage bins
- Cracks and crevices in walls and windows
Identifying the ant type (black ants, red ants, etc.) helps choose the right removal method.
How to Get Rid of Ants in the House Naturally
Use White Vinegar Spray
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water
- Spray along baseboards, windowsills, and entry points
- The smell disrupts scent trails ants use to navigate
Lemon Juice Solution
- Acts as a natural ant repellent
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice and spray around doorways, counters, and sinks
Cinnamon or Clove Powder
- Sprinkle in areas where ants are seen
- These spices disrupt pheromone trails
Peppermint Oil Spray
- Add 10–15 drops of peppermint oil to water and spray in corners and entry points
- Ants hate the strong scent
Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)
- A non-toxic, natural powder that kills ants by dehydrating them
- Sprinkle lightly along ant trails and kitchen floors
DIY Ant Bait Recipe (For Black or Red Ants)
Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
Borax | 1 tsp | Kills ants slowly |
Sugar | 3 tsp | Attracts ants to the bait |
Warm water | 1 cup | Mixes ingredients evenly |
Cotton balls | As needed | To soak and place the solution |
Place soaked cotton balls near ant trails. The ants carry the mixture back to their colony, eventually wiping them out.
How to Remove Ants from Kitchen
- Store food in airtight containers
- Clean spills immediately
- Wipe counters with vinegar or lemon
- Take out the trash daily
- Seal cracks and gaps near the sink and under cabinets
Pro Tip: Mop kitchen floors with vinegar water once a week to prevent ants.
How to Stop Ants From Coming in the House Permanently
- Seal entry points: Use caulk on windows, doors, and baseboards
- Keep dry areas dry: Fix leaky pipes and drains
Clear outside attractants: Trim bushes and remove food from pet bowls
What About Red Ants?
Red ants (often fire ants) are more aggressive and may bite.
Natural Remedies for Red Ants:
- Boiling Water: Pour directly onto visible anthills
- Cucumber Peels: Acts as a natural repellent for red ants
- Chalk Lines: Drawing lines with chalk near entry points can disrupt their trails
When to Call a Professional
If:
- Ants keep returning despite your efforts
- You’ve found ant nests inside walls or electrical boxes
- You’re dealing with aggressive red ant infestations
Frequently Asked Questions
What smell do ants hate the most?
Peppermint, vinegar, cinnamon, and citrus are top repellents.
Is it safe to use borax in homes with pets?
Use borax carefully. Keep baits out of reach of pets and children.
Can ants come back after treatment?
Yes, if you don’t seal entry points or maintain cleanliness. Ongoing prevention is key.