Here are additional natural methods to kill ants:
- Cornmeal and Borax Mixture: Combining cornmeal with borax creates an effective ant killer. Ants are attracted to the cornmeal and ingest the borax along with it, which is toxic to them. Spread this mixture near ant trails and entry points. As always, keep this mixture out of reach of children and pets.
- Cinnamon Leaf Oil Spray: Cinnamon leaf oil is known for its insecticidal properties. Mixing this oil with water and spraying it directly on ants or their trails can kill them. This method is also a natural deterrent due to its strong scent.
- White Vinegar and Water Solution: While vinegar is commonly used as a deterrent, a stronger concentration can be lethal to ants. Mix white vinegar with an equal amount of water and spray it directly onto the ants to kill them. The acetic acid in vinegar disrupts their body chemistry.
- Essential Oil Blend: Certain essential oils, like peppermint, tea tree, and clove, are lethal to ants. Create a blend of these oils with water and a small amount of dish soap (which breaks down the exoskeletons of the ants), and spray directly on the ants and their trails.
- Baking Soda and Powdered Sugar: A mixture of baking soda and powdered sugar can act as an effective ant killer. The sugar attracts the ants, and the baking soda is toxic to them once ingested. Place this mixture in areas where you’ve noticed ant activity.
Remember, while these methods are effective for killing ants, they are most efficient when combined with preventative measures such as maintaining cleanliness, managing food residue, and sealing entry points in your home. Moreover, persistence and consistency are key, as it might take several applications to significantly reduce the ant population.