Dear reader,
In this article, I will walk you through how to get rid of moisture ants and how to prevent these pests from infesting your home.
Apart from that, if you have difficultly identifying moisture ants, then I have a section that will help you do just that.
How to get rid of moisture ants
If you already have a moisture ant infestation in your home, there are several methods you can use to get rid of them. I will walk you through them below.
Homemade remedies
- Vinegar and water solution: Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply to areas where you have seen moisture ants. The strong smell of vinegar will deter the ants and disrupt their pheromone trails, making it harder for them to navigate.
- Boric acid: Mix boric acid with a sweet liquid, such as honey or sugar water, and place it in areas where you have seen moisture ants. They will be attracted to the sweet liquid but will ingest the boric acid, which will ultimately kill them.
- Diatomaceous earth (DM): Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your home or in areas where you have seen moisture ants. Since DM has sharp edges, it will cut into the ants’ exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.
Commercial Baits and Insecticides
- Liquid baits: Liquid baits, such as Terro or Combat, are effective at attracting moisture ants and killing them. Simply place the bait stations in areas where you have seen the ants and wait. Eventually, they will take the bait back to their nest.
- Granular baits: Granular baits, such as Amdro or Ortho, are similar to liquid baits but come in a granular form. Spread the granules around the perimeter of your home or in areas where you have seen the ants.
- Insecticide sprays: Insecticide sprays, such as Ortho Home Defense or Raid can be used to kill moisture ants on contact. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid using these sprays in areas where food is prepared or consumed.
How to prevent a moisture ant infestation
I think preventing moisture ants from entering your home is the best way to avoid having to deal with an infestation. Here are some steps I suggest you take to prevent these ants from invading your home:
Identify moisture sources: The first step in preventing moisture ants from invading your home is to identify any sources of moisture. This could include leaky pipes, clogged gutters, or even excessive humidity levels inside your home. Once you have identified these sources, take steps to address them.
Proper storage of food and water: Keep your food stored in airtight containers and promptly clean up any spills or crumbs. Moisture ants are attracted to food, so keeping it properly stored can help prevent them from invading your kitchen.
Similarly, make sure to fix any leaky pipes or faucets and empty standing water sources, such as plant trays, to remove potential water sources.
Sealing entry points: Moisture ants usually enter your house or apartment through small crevices or cracks in your foundation, walls, or windows.
To prevent them from entering, seal these entry points with caulk or other sealant materials.
Taking these preventative measures can significantly reduce the chances of a moisture ant infestation in your home.
How to identify moisture ants
If you don’t know how to identify moisture ants, then here is a quick explanation.
Moisture ants are tiny ants that are typically brown or black in color and range from 1/16 to 1/8 inches in size. They are known for their attraction to moist environments and can often be found in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas with high humidity.
Nesting and feeding habits: These creatures typically nest in damp, decaying wood or soil and feed on various things, including sugar, meats, and other insects. They are attracted to sources of moisture, such as leaky pipes or damp wood, and will often build their nests near these sources.
Damage caused by moisture ants: While moisture ants do not pose a direct threat to humans, they can cause damage to structures if left untreated. They can weaken wood structures, causing them to become unstable, and can also contaminate food sources if they are allowed to infest a kitchen or pantry.
Conclusion
Getting rid of moisture ants can be a challenge, but by following the preventative measures I have outlined in this article and by using the right treatment methods, you can eliminate the infestation and prevent them from returning.
Remember, early detection and action are key to keeping your home free of moisture ants.
By the way, did you know that different cities have different types of ant infestations? I’m sure you did, so read this article next – if you have wondered how many types of ants are there in Idaho.
