The presence of small ants in a bathroom can be an unsettling discovery. But the truth is, they can appear in unexpected places like around the kitchen sink and of course, in the bathroom.
To understand why they infiltrate these spaces and how to get rid of them, it’s important to first understand what attracts them. Read on to discover why and how ants are getting in and how to best address the issue and prevent future infestations.
What Attracts Ants?
Ants gravitate to dark, moist areas that provide them with easy access to water and food. The combination of humidity and dampness commonly found in a bathroom creates a welcoming environment for these tiny creatures. Plumbing fixtures and their contents provide a rich source of moisture and shelter while toothpaste residue, hair, dead skin cells, and spilled liquids provide a tasty meal.
Ants also have a keen sense of smell and can detect strong odors. The sweetening agents found in perfumes, soaps, and shampoos can easily catch their attention.
How to Get Rid of Ants
There are several environmentally-friendly home remedies that can eliminate these uninvited guests in a safe and natural way.
- White vinegar is a natural deterrent that can be sprayed along ant trails and entry points.
- Borax can be mixed with a sweet attractant, such as sugar, to create an effective ant bait.
- Essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree, or lemon can be diluted and sprayed to discourage activity.
In addition to natural remedies, you can place ant traps strategically along ant trails or near entry points. They are designed to attract ants with enticing bait and then trap them within the device.
For more serious ant infestations, liquid or powder insecticides formulated specifically for ants can be applied to targeted areas to eradicate them. But if an ant problem persists despite efforts to remove them, the help of a professional pest control company may be required.
Prevention is Key
As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Keep the bathroom clean and dry, remove any soapy water that can accumulate in tubs or on countertops, and always run the bathroom fan or crack the window open when taking a shower.
Ants often find their way into the bathroom through tiny gaps or cracks. Seal any cracks or gaps with caulk to eliminate their entry point.
A regular bathroom cleaning schedule can also play a crucial role in preventing an ant infestation. Pay particular attention to the area behind the toilet, around the sink, and other nooks and crannies where dirt, dust, hair, and other debris can accumulate.
A stinky bathroom drain can also attract ants; unclog and clear drains frequently to prevent stagnant water and organic matter from accummulating.
Finally, ants in a bathroom drain could also signal a leaking pipe or fixture somewhere in your home. If you suspect this may be the case, contact Norhio Plumbing and one of our experienced plumbers will determine whether this is the case, and if so, repair or replace the cause of the leak. For plumbing problems large and small, Norhio is always ready to assist.
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