Ants can be a persistent problem in many households, especially during warmer months. If you’ve tried everything from store-bought repellents to natural solutions without success, this technique might be the answer to your ant woes. It’s simple, effective, and will have those ants leaving your home for good.
What You’ll Need:
- Borax: A natural mineral that is toxic to ants but safe for humans when used properly.
- Sugar: Attracts ants and lures them into the trap.
- Water: To create a syrupy mixture.
- Cotton balls or paper towels: To soak up the mixture and place in areas where ants are most active.
- Small containers or bottle caps: To hold the mixture if you prefer not to place it directly on surfaces.
Method:
- Prepare the Ant Bait:
- In a small bowl, mix 1 part Borax with 3 parts sugar. The sugar will attract the ants, while the Borax will eliminate them.
- Slowly add water to the sugar-Borax mixture to create a syrupy consistency. You want it to be thick enough to stick to the cotton balls or paper towels but not too runny.
- Set the Bait:
- Soak cotton balls or small pieces of paper towel in the mixture until they are fully saturated.
- Place the soaked cotton balls or paper towels in areas where you’ve noticed ant activity. Common spots include near windows, doorways, under sinks, and along baseboards.
- Monitor and Replace:
- Within a few hours, you should see ants swarming to the bait. They will carry the mixture back to their colony, effectively eliminating the entire nest.
- Replace the bait every few days or as needed until you no longer see any ant activity.
- Prevention Tips:
- To prevent future infestations, keep your home clean and free of crumbs or food spills.
- Seal any cracks or openings around windows and doors where ants might enter.
- Consider placing ant repellent plants, like mint or lavender, near entry points.
Why This Works:
The sugar in the mixture draws the ants in, while the Borax works as a slow-acting poison. The ants consume the bait and carry it back to the colony, where it gradually eliminates the entire population. This method is effective because it targets the source of the problem, not just the ants you see.
By following this technique, you can rid your home of ants quickly and effectively. With regular maintenance and prevention, they’ll be leaving for good!