The Best Ant Killer on the Market
When the ants have caused too much trouble and have too many bites, you will understand that you must do something about them. Ants are not just a small problem like flies or gnats.
Ant killers can help get rid of ants that are invading your home. We've selected some of the top ant killers available today to assist you in your search.
So get your gloves ready. Let's start!
Table of Contents
1. TERRO Liquid Ant Baits
Ants may be eliminated from your home effectively by using TERRO Liquid Ant Baits. You have the option of putting them either inside or outside. They are simple to employ, and one may position them in virtually any desired location.
You can catch ants with borax, sugar, and water if you create a trap for them. Ants will be drawn to the bait, where they will become entrapped in the sticky substance. The inclusion of borax in the bait will be fatal to the ants. Most of your ant problems should be resolved within 48 hours
Pros
Natural substances were used.
Begin attracting and trapping ants right now.
Extremely reasonable, even for those on a limited budget.
Small enough to be used around the house and in outside structures or dining spaces.
Ready-to-use. There is no need to prepare, measure, or mix anything.
Common house ants are targeted and killed.
Cons
Some people have complained that the solution pours quickly from the pan - but don't worry! With a hot rag and soap, it can be readily removed.
2. MDXconcepts Organic Home Pest Control Spray
The MDXconcepts Organic Pest Control Spray is an excellent product created in the United States that eliminates ants on contact. In addition, it drives away roaches, spiders, and other annoying insects. A guarantee from the company backs the efficiency of the product.
Because it is prepared with organic components, such as peppermint, spearmint, rosemary essential oils, and vinegar, this ant killer does not threaten your family's health or the health of your pets. In addition, it is much less likely to contain potentially hazardous compounds than other ant killers.
Ant killers made by MDXconcepts feature a smell reminiscent of mint that is invigorating. You can use them to get rid of ants in your home while giving it a pleasant aroma.
Pros
Unlike other ant killers, this one smells great
Even those on a tight budget will find it affordable.
100% natural and organic formula
Pets, children, plants, and wildlife are all safe.
It kills ants and repels insects like spiders and roaches (and rats!) on touch.
Highly effective and starts repelling and eliminating ants right away.
Cons
None
3. Ortho Fire Ant Killer
For some people, the only way to get rid of pests is to utilize particularly potent products. The powerful remedy known as Ortho can assist you in getting rid of the pest troubles you've been having.
If you have a problem with fire ants, you should get the Ortho Fire Ant Killer since it is the best treatment. This powdered ant killer kills ants swiftly, even the queen, and there is sufficient product in the container to treat more than 50 individual ant mounds.
The Ortho Fire Ant Killer can efficiently eliminate large numbers of ants in a short amount of time. But you may also apply it safely next to your plants and flowers and on your lawn.
Pros
It won't break the bank – it's reasonable.
Excellent value for money. You can get a lot of material for a few dollars to eliminate over 50 ant mounds.
An aggressive, quick-acting anti-ant solution
Straight from the container, ready to use
Kills the queen ant and the entire mound.
For difficult Fire Ants, this is the best treatment.
Your flowers or grass will not be harmed.
Cons
Unlike the other ant killers on our list, this is not a more natural solution. For certain customers, this may be a disadvantage.
4. EcoRaider Ant Killer
The EcoRaider Ant Killer is an excellent option for use inside and outside the home. It is non-toxic and safe to use around children and pets when applied according to the instructions.
When it comes into touch with ants, the EcoRaider Ant Killer will cause their immediate demise. If you spray it all over the house, it will be effective for up to four weeks. Because the sprayer is linked to the bottle, it is simple to aim and will not leave any stains on your ground, walls, or furniture.
In addition, unlike conventional ant killers, no offensive odor is left behind. The only scent that can be detected is a citrusy odor that disappears very rapidly.
Pros
Affordable
No chemical odors
Plant-based
Safe for your family and pets to use
Kills ants on contact and keeps them away for up to 4 weeks (without reapplication).
For increased precision, employ an easy-to-use trigger sprayer.
Cons
None
5. Diatomaceous Insect Killer
This 4-pound resealable bag of earth-based ant killers can eradicate ants inside and outside your home in 48 hours. This powdered ant killer works by causing the ants to get dehydrated, ultimately leading to their death.
This product from Safer Brand has been approved for use by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ensuring that it is safe for people and the environment.
Pros
Has no negative consequences for people or the environment
Affordable
In a resealable bag, there are 4 pounds of merchandise.
Touch and consumption kill ants.
Registered with the Environmental Protection Agency
A natural way to get rid of ants
Cons
When wet, it loses its effectiveness. Make sure you use this ant killer on dried ant mounds.
Keeping Ants Under Control
There are many ways to keep creepy crawlies out of your home and yard. Pesticides and ant baits work well, but you can also keep things tidy to help control the ants.
Let’s go over a few tips!
- It is important to wipe up any food crumbs on the floor of your kitchen or patios. The food that has been saved for later will attract the worker ants. If you clean and vacuum your kitchen floor once a week, you should be able to pick up any crumbs that may have fallen in the cracks during dinner. If you want to keep ants away from your outdoor living space, sweep up any food crumbs on your patios, decks, and porches.
- There should never be a shortage of water. Ants require both food and water to maintain their existence. An outdoor water dish or any other source of standing water will attract ants to the area. This is especially true during the summer when there is less available water.
- Ants can be prevented from entering a space by using sealants. Ants are little insects capable of entering a home through virtually any opening. A smart method for preventing ants from entering your home is to seal any cracks or openings around the windows, doors, sinks, bathtubs, and other places where you believe they may enter.
- It's best not to place your firewood too close to the home. Ants frequently use firewood as a hiding place. By piling it up along the boundary of your property, you may keep intruders away from your house and the areas outside where you like to relax or play.
- Remove any overgrown plants from the area around your house or other buildings. It is common for ants to climb up shrubs or trees and onto roofs or window sills. You can keep them away by removing any branches in their path.
- Be sure to address any issues related to moisture that may exist in your home. Ants are drawn to wet areas, as discussed earlier in this discussion. Under your sinks and in your bathrooms, you should look for signs of moisture buildup and leaks.
Identifying Your Ants
If you're not sure what kind of ants you're dealing with, don't worry. This section will cover some of the most common ants in homes and yards.
Fire Ants
The heat is perfect for fire ants. They are typically seen moving around when the temperature is between 70 and 95 degrees.
A species of ant known as fire ants can range in color from bright to dark red. They are approximately a quarter of an inch in length. They tend to build their mounds of dirt in sunny places with a level surface, such as playgrounds or locations close to sidewalks. Therefore, you should not look for them in moist or shaded areas.
The term "omnivorous" refers to fire ants consuming anything they can get their mouths on. This includes savory and sweet dishes, as well as vegetables and meats.
Carpenter Ants
Tunneling through wooden beams is the method that carpenter ants use to construct their nests. They could cause a lot of damage to houses that have exposed wood in them. The colonies of carpenter ants often contain more than 50,000 individuals.
The most common colors are black or dark crimson, approximately half an inch in length. They can be discovered in dead trees as well as in wooden structures that have been damaged.
Crazy Ants
It is possible to recognize Crazy Ants by the chaotic movements they make. They can be a raspberry color, yellow, or even black. They have extremely long legs compared to the size of the rest of their bodies.
These ants can be a significant challenge because they enjoy chewing on electrical cables. In addition to this, they favor nesting in damp places. Even crazy is that they enjoy eating sweets, which increases the likelihood that you may discover them in your kitchen. In addition to that, they like to munch on meats and various insects.
Odorous House Ants
These ants are frequently discovered in the vicinity of food in kitchens. They can be either black or dark brown, releasing an offensive odor when crushed. The odorous House Ants present after heavy rains are quite small and very rapid, and they frequently move quickly along kitchen floors.
They are little, measuring only about 1/8 of an inch in length. The majority of the time, they travel in huge groups together.
Handling And General Safety
- There are a few ways to handle ant killers safely.
- Always wear protective gloves when using ant killers to avoid the chemical on your skin.
When using liquid or powder ant killers, wearing a protective nose and mouth mask is important to avoid breathing in the fumes. - To avoid getting any product on your skin, wear close-toed shoes.
- If you are applying ant killer, wear clothes that cover your skin. This will help to avoid getting the chemical on your skin.
- When employing ant killers, avoid inhaling the vapors directly. If you're using it indoors, ensure the space is sufficiently aired, so you don't inhale the fumes.
- Keep ant killers away from pets and small children. Call poison control and go to the hospital or vet if they ingest it.
- Read the instructions on how to use ant killers carefully. Make sure to follow the directions on the package closely.
- Do not put ant killers near where you cook food.
- After handling the ant killer, wash your hands with soap and warm water. This will help eliminate any chemicals on your hands that could make you sick.
Best Ant Killer Brands
Now that we know how to control ants let's look at some brands that make ant killers.
- TERRO: TERRO is one of the most well-known ant-control firms. People have been using it since 1915. TERRO offers a variety of pest control solutions to keep your home and yard healthy.
- MDX Concepts: Michael and Lonja Drummer lost 10 acres of farmland to synthetic chemical pesticides in January 2018. They looked for an organic solution to pest control when MDXConcepts was born.
- ORTHO: ORTHO is one of the most trusted brands for lawn care. They specialize in pest and weed control, creating fast-acting and effective products.
- EcoRaider: EcoRaider is a company that makes safe, all-natural pesticides.
- Safer: The Safer Brand company has been around for over 30 years. They make products that won't harm people or pets. Their products are even approved for use by certified organic farms!
Ant Killer Options: What to Look for in a Product
Identify the ant species invading your home or yard before purchasing an ant killer. To identify a specific pest, use AntWeb, an online database of every ant species around the globe. However, North American residents will most likely face one of the following:
- Odorous house ants nest in walls and under floors and are brown or black. They are attracted to sugar and are most active throughout spring and summer.
- Pavement ants have a brown or black hue. They frequently engage in what appears to be an epic struggle with other pavement ants over paving tiles. Some pavement ants, called alates (or swarmers), have wings and can fly to form new colonies.
- Carpenter ants are one of the largest ant species in North America. As their name suggests, carpenter ants are fond of wood. This destructive species, swarmers, and workers bore holes in walls, floors, and ceilings, leaving sawdust mounds behind.
- Fire ants, These insects, which are little and reddish-brown, create mounds in the yard that resemble loose dirt. The most immediate hazard to humans and animals is posed by fire ants, whose painful sting causes burning and itching sensations. Those allergic to insect stings must be extremely cautious, as fire-ant venom can induce throat swelling and breathing difficulties.
Types of Ant Killers
Identify the ant species invading your home or yard before purchasing an ant killer. To identify a specific pest, use AntWeb, an online database of every ant species around the globe. However, North American residents will most likely face one of the following:
- Odorous house ants nest in walls and under floors and are brown or black. They are attracted to sugar and are most active throughout spring and summer.
- Pavement ants have a brown or black hue. They frequently engage in what appears to be an epic struggle with other pavement ants over paving tiles. Some pavement ants, called alates (or swarmers), have wings and can fly to form new colonies.
- Carpenter ants are one of the largest ant species in North America. As their name suggests, carpenter ants are fond of wood. This destructive species, swarmers, and workers bore holes in walls, floors, and ceilings, leaving sawdust mounds behind.
- Fire ants, These insects, which are little and reddish-brown, create mounds in the yard that resemble loose dirt. The most immediate hazard to humans and animals is posed by fire ants, whose painful sting causes burning and itching sensations. Those allergic to insect stings must be extremely cautious, as fire-ant venom can induce throat swelling and breathing difficulties.
How to Choose the Most Effective Ant Killer
There are several important considerations while purchasing ant killers. Whether you choose an ant bait or a more natural method, these factors will assist you in making the best decision for your house.
The Ingredients Used
Repellents either have a delayed start or operate instantaneously depending on the active ingredient. For major infestations characterized by daily observations of 10 or more ants in a given area, an instant killer and a poison with a delayed onset that targets the nest can eradicate the problem.
The delayed effect of sodium tetraborate decahydrate (commonly known as Borax), hydramethylnon, and fipronil permit ants to collect the poison, return it to the colony, and disseminate it. In addition, they alert other ants to retrieve additional poison. How long it takes to destroy an ant nest depends on the placement of the poison, the number of ants, and various other variables. Delayed-onset poisons should be applied continuously until the bait is no longer consumed and no ants are visible.
Deltamethrin is among the active substances that function instantly by interfering with the central nervous systems of ants. As a natural alternative, d-limonene, which comprises up to 95% of the components in orange peel extract, causes ants to suffocate by degrading the respiratory system's coating.
Application Procedures
Insecticides can be utilized in a variety of ways. With so many application methods available, you may desire to test several to determine which one works best for your situation.
- Bait stations are little plastic containers that ants enter, grab a morsel of poisoned bait, and return to their nests unaware. Place bait stations in low-traffic locations, such as beneath appliances or in a crawlspace, to keep children and animals away from poisons.
- Gel baits are pushed into cracks or placed underneath equipment. Ants devour the gel over time, ensuring the demise of their colony.
- Liquid baits can be suspended from small stakes. A diagonal entrance ascends like a staircase, enabling ants to eat bait from each step of the access hole simultaneously. Simple bait stations can also be employed with liquid bait.
- Granule bait may be scattered in or around a nest. Ants collect the granules and return to their colony.
- Sprays can either be directed directly at ants or administered as a surface poison absorbed by the ants' skin.
- Ant dust is a lethal powder that can be inhaled or ingested. It can be used to form a residence perimeter or block cracks and other entrance spots.
Additional Qualities
Before treating an ant infestation, consider the safety of the home's inhabitants and animals. Some bait stations and gels employ vivid colors to attract attention to their danger. Still, these colors can also attract children and animals searching for a toy or a treat. Place bait stations exclusively in locations inaccessible to children and animals. Sprays and ant dust can be absorbed through family members' skin, which is dangerous use in high-traffic areas.
The natural active ingredient in several kill-on-contact insecticides, d-limonene, is fortunately harmless to humans and animals. However, it does not provide the same level of protection as more potent medications. It is ineffective against nests that have not been identified.
Ant killers may incorporate additional features, such as stay-fresh tabs. That keeps bait as powerful as possible or handy applicators, such as a syringe or shaker for gels and dust. Bait stakes are effective in the yard or garden, and certain pesticides for outdoor use are waterproof.
What Kinds of Outdoor Ant Killing Products Are There?
The bait of the most efficient outdoor ant killers is impregnated with a pesticide that has a prolonged impact (Borax is a common ingredient used for ants). The slow-acting characteristic of borax allows it to infect and kill the queen, the larvae, and the rest of the colony, taking advantage of the social nature of ants.
Liquid Baits (Liquids and Gels)
Use a tasty solution as an attractant, liquid, or gel baits. Gel baits are applied with a syringe and are ideal for gaps and crevices that standard traps or grains are unable to reach. Gel baits can catch mice, rats, and other small animals. Gel baits are the most effective way to trap rats.
Some typical traps, like those made by the brand TERRO, use liquid baits, which the ants then transport back to their colony to feed the queen and the rest of the colony. These traps are effective because the ants are more likely to enter the trap if the bait is liquid.
Solid Baits (Granules and Dust)
Granules are a type of fat and protein bait that is dispersed across your grass in the form of a powder. Diatomaceous earth is used as the drying agent (or DE) to remove moisture from the exoskeletons of ants and other insects. Granules are preferable to DE for outdoor use because rain is the primary agent that removes DE.
Sprays
In addition, a wide variety of liquid sprays and aerosols can be used as contact killers and barriers around the exterior of your home. These can be purchased at a variety of different stores. You can use this spray as a deterrent by spraying it onto the ant track and around the house, and in the garden.
It is necessary to accurately identify the kind of ant you are dealing with to select the proper treatment. This is because different pesticides are more effective against different species of ants. The links above provide information on the most effective approaches to removing carpenter, fire, and lawn ants from your home.
What Should You Search for When Purchasing?
A product that is both long-lasting and resistant to water should be your priority.
You do not wish to use something that has become soaked in the rain. Similarly, you ought to steer clear of things that could be dislodged by a strong wind gust (powders, etc.).
This is highly dependent on the state in which you live and the weather patterns you experience. In an environment like a desert, the value of a product's ability to waterproof itself is reduced.
Another vital factor that should not be overlooked is protecting children and animals. If you let your dog or cat outside, why would you want them to come into contact with ant bait?
Ant traps are safer around children and animals because the poison is encased in a plastic container, and the traps themselves are more self-contained than other options. Granules, sprays, and gels are often loosely disseminated, which increases the risk that they will end up in your pet's food.
Final Thoughts
When ants invade your home or yard, it's time to take action. Ant killers are the best way to get rid of these pests quickly and easily. You can be ant-free for just a few dollars and a few minutes of your time!
Read more: How to Get Rid of Ants, Mice, and Other Pests