How to Get Rid of Ants in the Kitchen From Your Richmond, VA Home
Ants can be a nuisance in any home, and getting rid of them can be a challenging task. Richmond, VA is no exception to this problem, and many homeowners struggle with ant infestations in their kitchens. However, there are several steps you can take to get rid of ants in your kitchen and keep them from coming back.
Types of Ants in Richmond, VA
Richmond, Virginia, is home to several types of ants, including odorous house ants, pavement ants, and carpenter ants. Odorous house ants are small, brown ants that emit a strong odor when crushed and are often found foraging for food in kitchens and bathrooms. Pavement ants are also small and dark brown, with parallel lines on their bodies, and are often found on sidewalks and driveways. Carpenter ants are the largest of the three and are usually black or dark brown, and can cause damage to wooden structures in and around homes.
Identify the Type of Ants in Your Kitchen
The first step in getting rid of ants in your kitchen is to identify the type of ants that are present. Different species of ants have different behaviors, and the treatment method that works for one type of ant may not work for another. As we learned, the most common ants found in homes are odorous house ants, pavement ants, and carpenter ants. Deciphering which ant is infesting your kitchen can help with the treatment methods and if you should check for structural damage depending on the ant. If you are dealing with carpenter ants, check the wooden structures, as these insects are known for destroying wood.
Eliminating Ants in Your Kitchen
Methods to eliminate ants in Richmond, VA, include:
Eliminate Food Sources
Ants are attracted to food, so eliminating their food sources is an essential step in getting rid of them. Keep your kitchen clean by wiping down counters, sweeping floors, and washing dishes regularly. Store food in airtight containers and keep ripe fruit in the refrigerator. Don't leave pet food out overnight, and make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs immediately.
Seal Entry Points
Ants can enter your home through even the tiniest cracks and gaps in your walls, windows, and doors. Inspect your kitchen and seal any entry points you find with caulk or weather stripping. Also, check your pipes and plumbing for leaks, as ants can use these as entry points as well.
Use Ant Baits or Traps
Ant baits or traps can be an effective way to get rid of ants in your kitchen. These products contain a slow-acting poison that the ants take back to their colony, eventually killing off the entire colony. Place the bait or trap near the ant trail, and be patient, as it may take several days for the ants to take the bait and for the colony to die off.
Hire a Professional Exterminator
If you've tried all of the above methods and still can't get rid of the ants in your kitchen, it may be time to call in a professional exterminator. A pest control expert can assess the situation and determine the best course of action to eliminate the ants and prevent future infestations.
RichPro is a Richmond pest control company that services the surrounding area, too! If you have an ant infestation and cannot seem to find a solution to eliminate it, trust the expert Richmond ant exterminators! We offer free inspections, same-day services, and family-friendly treatments.