today we will discuss how to get rid of ants in the kitchen counters. Whether you’re dealing with a few rogue ants or an all-out infestation, getting rid of ants in the kitchen can be a real challenge. And while there are plenty of pesticides and traps on the market that promise to do the job, many of them contain harsh chemicals that you may not want to use in your home—especially if you have young children or pets.
how to get rid of ants in the kitchen counters
The good news is that there are a number of effective organic methods for getting rid of ants in the kitchen. So whether you’re looking for a nontoxic way to keep ants out of your home or get rid of the ones that are already there, give one of these five methods a try.
method 1: use vinegar
One of the easiest ways to get rid of ants is to use vinegar. Vinegar is an acidic substance that ants avoid, so they’ll stay away from surfaces that have been sprayed with it. Plus, it’s safe to use around children and pets—just be sure to use a diluted mixture so you don’t damage your countertops.
To make a vinegar repellent, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to areas where you’ve seen ants or think they might enter your home. You can also soak cotton balls in vinegar and place them near entry points, like cracks in the windowsill or underneath appliances. Just be sure to check and replenish the cotton balls every few days, as they will eventually dry out.
method 2: use food-grade diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a soft, sedimentary rock that’s made up of the fossilized remains of algae. It’s available in most hardware stores and can be used as an effective ant killer. The tiny particles abrasions caused by diatomaceous earth will kill ants on contact by dehydrating them and causing them to break apart internally.
To use diatomaceous earth as an ant killer, sprinkle it generously around problem areas—you can even use it indoors near doorways and windowsills as long as you keep it away from food preparation surfaces. Just be careful when using diatomaceous earth, as inhaling it can cause respiratory irritation.
If you’re using it indoors, make sure there’s plenty of ventilation and wear a dust mask if possible. You should also avoid using diatomaceous earth if you have young children or pets since they may inadvertently ingest it while playing nearby.
method 3: make a citrus solution
Ants hate the strong smell of citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, so making a citrus solution is an easy way to repel them naturally. Simply combine equal parts water and lemon juice (or orange juice) in a spray bottle and apply it liberally to problem areas both inside and outside your home. You can also place slices of lemon or orange peel near entry points as an additional measure against unwanted intruders.
conclusion:
Organic methods for getting rid of ants include using vinegar, food-grade diatomaceous earth, or citrus solutions. These are all safe to use around children and pets when used correctly. Whichever method you choose, be sure to apply it generously around problem areas both inside and outside your home for best results.