Ants are one of the most common pests found inside homes and businesses. They are really good at
moving around without being seen, and when they are eventually spotted, their small size makes them
look like easy targets. It’s no wonder many folks first try one or more of the popular do-it-yourself (DIY)
methods to get rid of them. Those people often end up disappointed, though, as home remedies often
take more time to implement, carry higher risks, and are not as effective as professional treatment.
Let’s take a look at some common DIY recommendations, along with reasons they often prove
disappointing.
Vinegar: This liquid works is often touted as a natural and safe way to repel ants. It has the appearance
of doing the job, but in reality all vinegar does is send ants looking for cover. It won’t (and can’t)
eliminate their colony. In fact, vinegar’s strong scent can even cause ants to flee to areas they’d not
investigated.
Cinnamon: Here’s another natural remedy that’s given high marks by do-it-yourselfers. But like vinegar,
even if the ants do run away, this pungent spice won’t get rid of the colony. Moreover, application can
be messy, you can’t always put it where needed, and it may not work as a repellent in every case.
Borax: This caustic chemical is a commonly recommended in DIY ant bait recipes, but it can be
hazardous to pets and children. Furthermore, it doesn’t work when trying to clear certain ant
species…and the ants may even avoid the bait altogether.
Home-built traps: While DIY devices made with sugary bait and plastic containers can prove mildly
effective at catching some ants, they won’t eliminate the colony. What’s worse, they can attract other
pests, such as roaches and mice. You can’t rely upon these trap as long-term solutions.
Peppermint oil: This is another natural repellant that does scatter ants, hopefully to a place outside of
your house or business. However, like vinegar, cinnamon, and other natural solutions, it can’t eliminate
a colony, may not work against the species you’re dealing with, and can drive ants into other areas.
Why Choose Professional Treatment?
Every one of these DIY ant removal methods have been shown to work to some extent. They each have
a temporary impact on ants in or around your house. However, none of them are likely to resolve an
actual ant infestation. To effectively and safely rid your place of ants, it’s best to consult with
professional pest control experts.
Here are a few good reasons to have a service like KC Pest Control in your corner:
Expertise and experience: Professional exterminators have the knowledge and experience to identify the
type of ants and the severity of the infestation. We understand the behavior and biology of ants, and
can locate ant nests and trails. These abilities enable us to develop an effective treatment plan that
targets the entire colony, rather than just individual ants.
Commercial-grade products: To be effective, it’s important to have access to insecticides and baits that
are not available to the general public. Products used by professional pest control services are often more potent and effective than over-the-counter remedies you can buy at a big box store. We can
achieve a better result with far less product, which is better for the environment.
Safe and proper application: It’s important to any pesticide properly. Professional exterminators are
trained in the safe use of these chemicals. We know how to handle and apply treatments in a way that
minimizes risk to people, pets, and the environment. Additionally, we can advise of precautions or
preparations you should take before and after application.
Long-term solutions: Professional exterminators can provide long-term solutions that address the root
cause of an ant infestation. We can recommend preventive measures, such as sealing entry points,
removing food sources, and reducing moisture levels, to prevent future problems.
Guarantee and follow-up: Many professional extermination companies offer a guarantee for their
services. KC Pest Control is one of them. If the infestation persists after treatment, we will return to
treat the area again at no further cost, and will stay atop the problem until it’s under control.
If you’re dealing with an ant infestation in your home or business, take action now. Don’t let ants take
over your space. An army of ants is nothing to shrug off. Contact us today to set up a review.
