3 Ways to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants

February 10, 2023

Ants can be quite a nuisance. Once they enter your home, they will raid your food stores with single-minded determination, contaminating your food and generally being gross. Some ants take things a step further though. Carpenter ants don’t just invade your home–they’ll destroy it. Getting rid of them should be a top priority.


Boiling Water

If you happen to notice a carpenter ant nest outside, you can prevent them from invading your home. Boil a few liters of water and pour it into the nest, taking care not to splash yourself with boiling water. You may need to do this a few times to totally eliminate the colony. The effectiveness of this method can be boosted by adding a water-soluble insecticide, soap, or essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or citrus oils.


Soap and Water

Soap and water are great for cleaning your body, but it’s not so great for carpenter ants. In fact, soap and water are actually toxic to them. Put one part natural dish soap and two parts water in a spray bottle and spray as needed to kill the ants. This method will also disrupt their pheromone trail, making it even more effective at getting rid of them. You can use this option inside or outside of your house, depending on where you need it.


Sugar and Baking Soda

Sugar and baking soda are another great way to eliminate carpenter ants in your home. These natural substances are safe for use in households with kids and pets since baking soda isn’t harmful to either unless it’s ingested in large quantities. Mix equal parts sugar and baking soda to create a carpenter ant bait. They’ll be attracted to the sugar and bring the bait back to their colony. The baking soda reacts with the acid in the ants’ digestive systems and kills them. For best results, place the mixture in shallow dishes near the ant trails and by windows and doors (common entry points).


Carpenter ants can be a significant problem for homeowners. Don’t let them destroy your home. You can always try DIY methods to get rid of them. If they don’t work, don’t hesitate to call Proterra Pest Control. We’re ready and waiting to help you have the pest-free home you deserve.


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