How to Get Rid of Sugar Ants
If you have sugar ants in your home, you want to get rid of them as soon as possible. These pests can be difficult to exterminate, but it is possible with the right information and tools.
While we recommend professional services if the sugar ant infestation is severe, we also know that immediate action with home remedies can help alleviate the issue.
This guide will go in-depth on sugar ants and how to get rid of them. We’ll cover everything from biology and habits to the best ways to eradicate them. So read on and learn how to take back your home from these tiny invaders.
What are Sugar Ants?
Sugar ants are small and reddish-brown in color. They are commonly found in North America. They get their name from their love of sweets, and they are often found near food sources such as sugar, syrup, honey, or jelly.
Sugar ants are social insects that live in colonies of up to 15,000 individuals. Their nests are usually located in the soil, but they can also be found inside walls or under floors. These ants range in size from 0.125 to 0.25 inches long.
Types of Sugar Ants
There are several types of sugar ants, but the most common is the carpenter ant. Carpenter ants are larger than other sugar ants, and they have a black thorax and head. They can be distinguished from other sugar ants by their two pairs of wings (most sugar ants only have one pair), which they fold over their abdomen when not in use.
Carpenter ants are more aggressive than other types of sugar ants, and they can damage wood as they tunnel through it to build their nests.
The other types of sugar ants include:
Acrobat Ants
These tiny, black ants can easily be identified by their ability to do backflips. They get their name from their habit of flipping onto their backs if disturbed while defending their nest.
Pavement Ants
These ants are dark brown or black, and they are the most common type of ant in the United States. They build their nests beneath sidewalks, driveways, and other pavement surfaces.
Pharaoh Ants
These small ants are yellow to light brown, and they can be found in both indoor and outdoor environments. Pharaoh ants often nest in wall voids, cracks and crevices, and appliances.
Odorous Ants
These ants get their name from the strong odor they produce when crushed. They are reddish-brown to black with a slightly oval body shape.
How Do I Identify a Sugar Ant Problem?
If you’re not sure whether you have sugar ants or some other type of ant, there are a few things you can look for. Here are some common signs that you have sugar ants:
- Sugar ants are smaller than most other types of ants.
- They tend to form long columns as they march in search of food.
- Their bodies are a light brown color, and they have black antennae.
If you see ants that look like this, then you likely have a sugar ant problem. If you’re not sure, it’s best to call a professional exterminator to identify the type of ants and recommend the best course of action.
When to call professionals?
Sugar ant infestations can come on strong and fast. If you want to be sure to get rid of the sugar ants in your home thoroughly and effectively, call in pest removal experts. They have experience with these pests and the chemicals used to get rid of them.
15 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Sugar Ants at Home
Sugar ants and their colonies might be tough to remove, but there are some safe methods for getting rid of them that do not involve the use of chemicals or poisons. Additionally, they also work for eliminating other types of ants.
Here are 15 natural ways to get rid of sugar ants:
1
Vinegar
White vinegar is a safe and nontoxic way to remove sugar ants from your home. Pour it into a spray bottle and spritz it directly on the ants, or pour it in areas where they tend to congregate. The acidity will kill them instantly.
2
Baking Soda
Another nontoxic option for killing sugar ants is baking soda. Sprinkle it liberally wherever you see the ants and then wait for them to eat it. It will kill them quickly.
3
Diatomaceous earth (DE)
DE is made up of tiny fossilized creatures that have razor-sharp edges. When sprinkled on an ant colony, the DE will cut through them. It’s important to use food-grade diatomaceous earth, which can be purchased online or at your local hardware store.
4
Salt
Salt is a natural deterrent for ants. Sprinkle it liberally where they are entering your home or near their anthill, and they will not cross the line.
5
Lemon juice
Lemon juice is also a great way to get rid of sugar ants. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice in a spray bottle and spritz on the ants. The citric acid will kill them.
6
Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper is another spicy option for getting rid of sugar ants. Sprinkle it around their entrance points, and they will avoid it.
7
Soapy water
Soapy water will kill sugar ants on contact. Mix one part dish soap to nine parts water in a spray bottle and spritz the ants.
8
Hot pepper sauce
The hot pepper sauce will not only kill the sugar ants but will also deter them from coming back. Spray it around their entry points, and they will stay away.
9
Oil of cloves
Oil of cloves is another natural remedy that can be used to get rid of sugar ants. It’s essential to use the undiluted oil of cloves, so purchase it at your local health food store or online. Then, put a few drops on a cotton ball and place it near their entrance points.
10
Ammonia
Ammonia is an effective way to get rid of sugar ants. Mix one-part ammonia to nine parts water in a spray bottle and spritz on the ants.
11
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and can be used to get rid of sugar ants. Put a few drops on a cotton ball and place it near their entrance points.
12
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a natural deterrent for sugar ants. Sprinkle it around their entry points, and they will avoid it.
13
Bay leaves
Bay leaves are another herb that can be used to keep sugar ants away. Place them near their entrance points, and they will not cross the line.
14
Garlic
Garlic is also a natural deterrent for sugar ants. Mince a few cloves and place them near their anthill or entry points.
15
Citrus
Used as fresh juice, dried peels, or oil, citrus is ant-repelling as well. Place lemon, orange, or grapefruit peels near their entry points.
These are some of the most effective ways to get rid of sugar ants naturally. If one method doesn’t work for you, then try combining it with another until you find the one that works best for your situation. And remember, be persistent. The key to getting rid of these pests is to keep at them until they are gone for good.
How Can I Prevent Sugar Ants from Invading My House?
You can do a few things to prevent sugar ants from invading your home in the first place. Here are a few tips:
- Seal and crevices around your home with caulk or another sealant.
- Repair any water leaks, and make sure your drainage is proper so they don't have a place to thrive.
- Keep your kitchen clean and free of food debris. Store food in airtight containers.
- Clean up spills immediately.
- Remove pet food from the area when you're not home.
- Fix leaky pipes and faucets
- Keep your kitchen clean and free of food scraps
- Store food in airtight containers
- Clean up spills immediately
These are just a few tips to help keep sugar ants away. If you follow these guidelines, you’ll be less likely to have an infestation in the first place. But if they do manage to get into your home, now you know how to get rid of them.
How to Get Rid of Sugar Ants Outside the House
There are a few different ways to deal with ants outdoors. You can use a natural or chemical repellent, or you can bait them and trap them.
Here are a few ways to get rid of sugar ants outside the house:
Coffee grounds
Sprinkle coffee grounds near their entrance points. The caffeine will keep them away.
Chili powder
Chili powder is another spicy option for getting rid of sugar ants. Sprinkle it around their entrance points, and they won’t come near it.
Boric acid
Boric acid is a safe chemical that can be used to get rid of sugar ants. It’s important to follow the directions carefully, as too much can be harmful. Mix boric acid with powdered sugar and place it near their anthill or entry points.
Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural product that can be used to get rid of sugar ants. It’s crucial to read directions thoroughly and follow the directions very carefully. Sprinkle it near their entrance points.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1
What is the fastest way to get rid of sugar ants?
The fastest way to get rid of sugar ants is with a chemical repellent. However, it’s important to follow the directions carefully, as too much can be harmful.
2
What is the best way to get rid of sugar ants?
The best way to get rid of sugar ants is to call a professional exterminator to do the job thoroughly and effectively. The best DIY methods are listed above. Using a combination of natural and chemical repellents will give you your best chance of success.
3
What can I do if sugar ants keep coming back?
If sugar ants keep coming back, you need to find the source of the infestation and address it. If you haven’t called a professional pest removal company yet, this is the point when you should do that.
4
Will sugar ants go away on their own?
No, sugar ants will not go away on their own. If you have an infestation, you need to take action to get rid of them.
Sugar ants can be a pain to deal with, but there are several things you can do to get rid of them permanently. Call in professionals to do the job for you or use DIY methods. Persistence is key when doing it by yourself.