As spring and summer sweep in with golden sunshine, longer days, and gardens bursting with blooms, they also bring along a less welcome crowd—ants. While butterflies and bees might add charm to your backyard, ants often head straight into your kitchen, uninvited and in large numbers.
Spotting a single ant indoors? That’s likely just the beginning—there’s probably an entire colony nearby. But don’t stress. If you’re battling an ant invasion, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up simple, effective, and pet-safe strategies to send those pests packing.
1. Keep Surfaces Sparkling Clean
Your first line of defense? A spotless home. Ants are relentless when it comes to seeking out food, especially sweet or sticky substances. Start with a thorough sweep of your kitchen and dining areas—wipe down countertops, don’t leave condiments or drinks sitting out, and clean up crumbs or spills immediately.
Encourage everyone in the household to pitch in. Leftover food wrappers or used dishes left lying around can invite ants in faster than you think. Consistent cleanliness is key to keeping these tiny invaders at bay.
2. Block Their Entry Routes
Ants are masters of finding even the tiniest gaps to sneak inside. Check your walls, floors, and foundations for cracks or holes and seal them up using caulk, filler, or plaster. It’s an easy DIY job that not only deters ants but can also help reduce drafts in your home.
Looking for more tips on sealing your space? We’ve got a full guide to draught-proofing that’ll help you tackle trouble spots like a pro.
3. Eliminate Outdoor Invitations
Prevention starts outside. Ants are drawn to food and water sources—yes, even your pet’s water bowl or yesterday’s BBQ leftovers. Make sure outdoor areas are kept tidy and free of standing water.
Also, trim back trees, vines, or shrubs that might serve as bridges into your home. And if you’re already out there with the shears, you might as well give your garden some love—check out our spring gardening tips to help you make the most of the season.
4. Choose Natural Ant Repellents That Are Safe for Pets
When it comes to pest control, going natural can be both effective and safe for your furry companions. Ants strongly dislike the scent of vinegar, citrus (like lemon or orange peel), cinnamon, and peppermint oil. Spraying these around doorways, windows, and along known ant paths can keep them away without using harmful chemicals.
These ingredients act as gentle deterrents, making them an ideal choice for pet-friendly households. Just be sure to double-check how each substance may affect your specific type of pet—especially birds, cats, or exotic animals.
5. Stay Consistent with Home Maintenance
Getting rid of ants is just the beginning—keeping them out is an ongoing job. Regularly clean high-traffic areas, reseal any new gaps or cracks, and maintain your outdoor space to prevent future infestations.
Want to prep your home for the warm season ahead? Our spring maintenance checklist has everything you need to stay a step ahead of pests—and keep your space fresh, clean, and ant-free.
With a bit of care and consistency, you can reclaim your home from ants—without sacrificing the safety of your pets or the environment. Happy cleaning, and here’s to a pest-free summer!