If you’ve ever had ants in your carpet, you know how pesky and frustrating they can be. Not only do they contaminate the area with their unsightly presence, but they can also be difficult to get rid of. In this blog post, we will discuss six effective techniques on how to get rid of ants from carpet. We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent future infestations from occurring.
If you’ve got pest problems that you just can’t shake, Recon Pest Services is here for the rescue. Servicing the greater Omaha & Lincoln area, we have the tools and knowledge to remove any common pest from your home or office. Contact us today for a free quote!
Tip 1: Vacuum the Ants Up
One of the simplest ways to get rid of ants in your carpet is to vacuum them up. This will work best if you have a handheld vacuum or a powerful one that can suction up the little critters easily. Just be sure to empty the vacuum bag immediately after so the ants don’t escape back into your carpet.
This option is best used in tandem with the other methods listed, as it is not usually a full-proof way of scaring off all of the ants that are possibly in the area. With pest control in general, vacuums are a good tool, as most pests love mess and food scraps that can be easily vacuumed.
Tip 2: Use Ant Bait and Traps
Another way to get rid of ants in your carpet is to bait them away from the carpet and into an area where you can safely trap or dispose of them. You can do this by creating a mixture of one part sugar and one part Borax. Place the mixture in a shallow dish and set it near the area where you’ve seen the most ant activity. The ants will be attracted to the sugar and will take the Borax back to their nest, which will ultimately kill them.
Another type of bait that is particularly helpful is called “ant gel.” This gel is specially formulated to attract ants and can be found at most hardware or home improvement stores. Once the ants have eaten the gel, they will die shortly after.
For an overview of the most effective ant baits on the market, check out this article from the New York Times that breaks it down.
Tip 3: Use Peppermint Oil or White Vinegar
If you’re looking for a natural way to get rid of ants in your carpet, try using peppermint oil. Simply combine equal parts water and peppermint oil in a spray bottle and mist the affected area. The strong scent of the peppermint will deter ants and other pests and they’ll eventually vacate the area.
Peppermint oil is a great option because it’s natural and safe to use around pets. Not to mention, it’s quite easy to clean up if you spill it.
Another natural solution for getting rid of ants in your carpet is to use white vinegar. Simply combine equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and mist the area where you’ve seen ant activity. The strong scent of the vinegar will deter them and they’ll eventually vacate the area.
Tip 4: Apply Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that’s derived from algae fossils and sedimentary rock. In reasonable doses, it’s safe to use around children and pets, and it can be effective in getting rid of ants and other pests in your carpet. Simply sprinkle the diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of the room and on any areas where you’ve seen ant activity. The sharp edges of the diatomaceous earth will cut through the exoskeletons of the ants, causing them to dehydrate and die.
Tip 5: How to Get Rid of Ants from Carpet Using Bleach
If you’re looking for a stronger solution to get rid of ants in your carpet, you can try using bleach. Be sure to use a diluted solution of bleach and water so you don’t damage or discolor your carpet.
You can also add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture, which will help to break down the exoskeletons of the ants, making the mixture more acidic. This leaves behind less residue for other pests like spiders to munch on. Apply the bleach solution to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it up with a dry, clean cloth. Repeat this process until the ants are gone, but be careful not to stain the carpet.
Tip 6: Call on a Pest Control Expert
If you’ve tried all of the above methods and you’re still seeing ants in your carpet, it’s time to call an exterminator. A professional will be able to identify the type of ant you’re dealing with and recommend the best course of treatment. They will also be able to provide tips on how to prevent future infestations from occurring.
Recon Pest Services is here to help you get rid of your pests once and for all. We service the greater Omaha and Lincoln areas, offering the tools and expertise to remove any typical pest from your house or workplace. Contact us today for a free quote!