Ugh, ants

[scribblinlenore]

I've never had a problem with ants before, but recently they invaded my kitchen. I found where they were coming in around the window and sealed it up, but apparently hordes had already made it inside. I never store food unsealed, and I've been even more scrupulous about keeping all dishes washed and the counters scrubbed down. I also tried rubbing

Comments

[jlvsclrk]

There's some insecticides that the worker ants carry back to the nest to kill the queen. It's the only way I know to really beat the buggers once they've got a foothold.

[scribblinlenore]

They definitely have a foothold. I will check into my insecticide options. Thanks for the info!

[destina]

Ant traps. Get good ones; the ants come in and take the food back to their homes, and they all quietly die off together after a week or so. You have to put up with the ants going to and from the traps for a time, but it does work. If you are really freaked out by ants, beware that ant traps will draw ALL the ants. Like, more than you think you have. It is best not to watch, but it is like a train wreck: impossible to look away from. *g* Just don't disturb the ants while they are going in and out of the traps; the whole point is to let them take all the lovely poison home.

[scribblinlenore]

Thanks for the info! I'm going to get some traps first thing tomorrow. I'm not squeamish about bugs, and I'm willing to put up with a great deal if it means getting rid of them.

[destina]

I think many places sell it as ant bait; you want to get the kind that says it will kill the whole colony. Good luck. Ants are disgusting, and every time I've had to deal with them, I get the creepies. *shudder*

[astrumporta]

I agree, ant traps. I've used Grant's Ants Stakes -- they work great. Ants eat from the stake, go back to the nest, and unleash the poison. :)

[scribblinlenore]

Thanks for the rec! I'm going to look for them in the store. I can't wait to get rid of these little buggers.

[viggofest]

If you want/ need to be chemical-free, I've found cinnamon, white vinegar, and crushed basil will keep them away from doors and windows. (Not a combo, individually!)
Good luck!

[dawnybee]

Went away on holiday once and came home to an ant infestation. Cayenne pepper drives them out. I sprinkled a lot near the entry points where the ants came from. But be careful if you have white paint because the cayenne will stain it.