Ants can be persistent pests, often invading homes in search of food and shelter. Here are five effective strategies to keep them out:

1. Seal Entry Points:

• Inspect Your Home: Check for gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and foundation walls where ants might enter.
• Use Caulk: Seal any openings with caulk or weather stripping to block their access.

2. Maintain Cleanliness:

• Regular Cleaning: Keep your kitchen and dining areas clean. Wipe down surfaces, sweep floors, and remove crumbs and spills promptly.
• Store Food Properly: Use airtight containers to store food, including pet food, and avoid leaving dishes out.

3. Eliminate Food Sources:

• Manage Trash: Ensure that garbage bins are tightly sealed and emptied regularly to prevent attracting ants.
• Clear Outdoor Areas: Keep your yard tidy by removing fallen fruit, pet food, and other potential food sources.

4. Use Natural Deterrents:

• Vinegar Solution: Spray a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water around entry points and along ant trails. The strong scent disrupts their pheromone trails.
• Cinnamon or Peppermint Oil: Sprinkle cinnamon or place cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil near entry points to repel ants.

5. Create Barriers:

• Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your home. This natural powder can deter ants and disrupt their bodies when they walk over it.
• Ant Baits: Set up bait stations in areas where you’ve noticed ant activity. This will help eliminate ants at their source.