Dealing With An Ant Infestation: Should You Call In A Professional?

If you have seen ants in your house at random times, it may just be a few of them looking around and eating the bread crumbs on the floor. It may not be something serious. But there are signs you should look for to ensure that there is not a bigger problem than it seems. If an infestation is a problem in your home, calling in a professional ant control service is the smartest thing to do.

Symptoms That Point To An Ant Infestation

Some of the signs to look out for are as follows:

• Ants All Around

If you are seeing a lot of live ants, it may point to a problem. It can be that you are finding them in your kitchen or your dining area where you prepare food or your family eats. Ants are attracted to food items like bread crumbs or anything loose they can easily pick up and carry to a safe destination.

• Ant Trails

This may mean that ants have not just invaded your home, but they have also made pathways and trails within. Such trails can also be found outside the house. It is usual for ants to build trails to indicate a food source. This makes it easy for other ants to find food.

• Ant Nests

Another tell-tale sign that there has been an ant infestation is if you find ant nests. Such a nest can look like a little pile of dirt or soil. Such nests can often be found on the walls or in areas of the house where it is cool and dark.

Safe Ways To Deal With Ants In Your Home

If you feel that the ant infestation in your home is something you can deal with yourself. Then there are safe ways to make it happen.

• Don’t Keep Food Stuffs Outside

This is so important. Ants are naturally attracted to foodstuffs and not keeping them outside is a great idea. Even if you leave foodstuff outside, make sure they are in airtight containers. This will ensure that ants can’t get near them.

• Clean Up Food Crumbs Immediately

It is usual in most households to not clean out food crumbs. Instead, wipe away and dispose of food crumbs immediately after eating. This will keep your house free of ants.

• Use Hand Soap

If you find ant trails in your house, then using hand soap on them can be a great way to get rid of the ants in them. The strong smell of hand soap is enough to dispose of ants.

• Use Pepper

Using pepper is another tried and tested way to get rid of ants. It is completely safe and natural as well. Using pepper on baseboards and behind appliances can keep ants at bay.

If you feel however that you need professional help to get rid of the ant infestation in your home, because DIY does not work for you, then calling service as soon as possible is a good idea.