How do I get rid of ants in the kitchen?
Find and eliminate the trail
Ants leave a pheromone trail that other ants follow. Watch where they come from and go. Clean the trail with soapy water to remove the scent. Seal cracks or gaps where they enter, using caulk or petroleum jelly. Keep counters, floors, and sinks free of crumbs, grease, and sugary spills.
Store food in airtight containers, including pet food. Take out the trash regularly and rinse recyclables. Fix leaky faucets, as ants need water.
Use baits, not sprays
Baits are the most effective DIY method because ants carry the poison back to the nest, killing the colony. Place bait stations near trails but out of reach of pets and children. Liquid baits work for sugar-loving ants; protein-based baits work for grease-loving ants. Give them a few days to work.
If you use sprays, you may kill only the visible ants and cause the colony to split into multiple nests, making the problem worse. Avoid spraying along trails. Instead, use a residual spray on entry points after baiting is complete.
- Ant bait stations (sugar- and protein-based)
- Caulk or petroleum jelly for sealing cracks
- Soapy water for cleaning trails
- Airtight containers for food
- Vacuum for quick cleanup of visible ants
When to call a pro
If you have a large infestation, see ants in walls or electrical outlets, or have tried baits for several weeks without success, call a licensed pest control operator. They can identify the species and use targeted treatments. Some ants, like carpenter ants, can damage wood and need professional attention.
Common mistakes
- Spraying insecticide on the ant trail, which kills the ants you see but can cause the colony to bud into new nests.
- Leaving food or water sources available, which keeps ants coming back even after baiting.
- Using baits and sprays at the same time, which can repel ants from the bait.
