Ants are almost always a nuisance, but they become especially active in the spring and summer, leaving plenty of you asking, “what causes ants in my house?” If only we had a dollar for every time we were asked that…

We wish there was one answer to why ants invade our homes, but there simply isn’t – but knowing what attracts them the most can help you start tackling your ant infestation little by little.

What attracts ants to your home:

Food.

Ants are hungry little creatures. They’re always scavenging for food, and once they find a source, they’ll notify the rest of their ant friends and carry the food back to their colony. So if you see one ant, it’s likely not the last.

Keep your home clean and free from crumbs. Your kitchen is typically an ant’s favorite room in the house, so pay special attention to your countertops and pantries. Clean up spills as soon as they happen, and get in the habit of wiping down countertops regularly, especially in the warmer months.

Moisture.

Most ants don’t need much water to survive and can actually get most of their it from their food. However, some species of ants love moist, damp wood, which is why you’ll find them near cabinets, especially if you have a leaky pipe or a leaky sink.

Check on your pipes and sinks regularly to make sure there’s no leaking. It’s also a good idea to check air conditioning units and anything else that may create moisture to ensure you’re not attracting these guys.

Your home is inviting!

Ants typically don’t create their colonies inside your home since they rely on the environment to keep their bodies regulated. However, they will colonize outside of your home, and if there are any cracks or crevices in your windows or doors, you can bet they’ll make their way inside.

Seal up your windows and doors. This is a good item to have on your spring cleaning list each year to make sure you’re keeping out more than just ants. We know it’s tough to keep your doors shut when it’s warm, especially if you have kids running in and out all day long, but try to keep them closed as often as possible, and do quick sweeps of the floor near your doors to check for any intruders.

Colonies near your home typically don’t get too out of hand, but if they’re intruding on your home or if you continue to see an infestation, call us. We’d love to come help you find the source and take them down. 706-309-0881