How to Keep Ants Out of Your Kitchen This Holiday Season

November 28, 2024

The holiday season brings lots of joy, but also an increase in food, foot traffic, and sometimes, unwanted guests—like ants! Ants are particularly attracted to kitchens, where crumbs, spills, and sugary treats abound. The last thing you want during your holiday celebrations is a swarm of ants invading your space. But don't worry—keeping ants out of your kitchen this holiday season is easier than you think. Here are some tips to keep your kitchen ant-free:

1. Keep Your Kitchen Clean

Ants are often looking for food, so your first line of defense is a clean kitchen. Make sure to wipe down countertops, sweep the floor, and keep food sealed tightly in containers. Don’t forget to clean up spills and crumbs promptly, especially after holiday baking or meals.

2. Store Food Properly

Store sugary foods and treats, such as cookies, candy, or leftovers, in airtight containers. Ants are drawn to anything sweet, so sealing your food will prevent them from sniffing out a feast in your pantry.

3. Seal Entry Points

Ants can squeeze through the tiniest cracks and gaps. Inspect windows, doors, and any potential openings around your kitchen, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. This simple step can help prevent ants from getting in.

4. Use Natural Repellents

There are several natural deterrents you can use to repel ants. Try placing a barrier of cinnamon, black pepper, or vinegar around entry points, as ants dislike these strong scents. You can also wipe down surfaces with essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or lemon, which are known to deter ants.

5. Set Ant Baits

If you’re already dealing with ants, ant bait stations can be a helpful solution. Ants carry the bait back to their colony, which can help eliminate the entire nest. Place the baits in areas where you’ve seen ant activity but out of reach of children and pets.

6. Take Out the Trash Regularly

During the holidays, your trash can accumulate faster with extra packaging, food scraps, and party leftovers. Make sure to take out the trash regularly and clean your bins to avoid attracting ants. Keeping the trash tightly covered also helps deter pests.

7. Manage Indoor Plants

Ants can also be drawn to indoor plants, especially if they're over-watered or have aphid infestations. Check the soil and stems of your houseplants for any signs of ants or pests, and make sure to treat them if needed.

Bottom Line: With a little extra care and attention, you can keep ants at bay and enjoy a peaceful, pest-free holiday season. At Secured Environment Pest and Wildlife Services, we specialize in helping homeowners protect their kitchens—and the rest of their homes—from pests like ants. If you’re already dealing with an infestation, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance.

Happy holidays and stay pest-free!

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