Have you ever gone to use your bathroom only to find a little black ant crawling up the wall? Or worse, turned on the sink faucet to find a group of them running around?
While finding these pests in such a personal space may startle (or downright disgust) you, it’s not uncommon. In this post, we’re going to share what to do if you find ants in your bathroom and how to prevent them from coming back.
WHAT ATTRACTS LITTLE BLACK ANTS IN THE BATHROOM?
Most species of ants are attracted to moisture and sweet items, which is why you’ll often see them in the kitchen. But there are also species of ants that are attracted to grease, which is why you might see them in the bathroom.
These grease-loving ants like to go to soap scum, which can build up on surfaces like tile, porcelain, and metal. One of the most common places you’ll find little black ants in the bathroom is along the base of sinks, where soap scum accumulates.
Another common place you might find these pests is under the sink. Whether it’s a bathroom or kitchen sink, there are small leaks that go unnoticed. Over time, this dampness can attract ants looking for water. Additionally, if you store food items under the sink (even if they’re sealed), ants may smell them and go to the area.
HOW TO GET RID OF ANTS IN THE BATHROOM
The best way to get rid of little black ants — or any type of ant — is to figure out what’s attracting them and address that issue.
If the ants are attracted to moisture, ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated, so it doesn’t stay damp after showers. You might also consider using an exhaust fan or opening a window when showering to help circulate air and keep things dry. If you have a leaky pipe under your bathroom sink, fix it as soon as possible so the area stays dry (plus, this will also help prevent mold growth).
As far as soap scum goes, regularly cleaning your bathroom will help discourage ants from setting up shop. Use a non-toxic cleaner (or even just white vinegar) and wipe down surfaces like tile, shower doors, tubs, toilets, and sinks on a weekly basis. Pay special attention to areas where soap scum accumulates, like the bottoms of sinks or showers.
How To Eliminate The Ant Colony
It’s essential to try to eradicate the colony of little black ants your bathroom has attracted. Doing so can be very simple and we have a couple of methods for you to try:
- One method is to use a mixture of borax and sugar. The ants will be attracted to the sugar and carry the borax back to their nest. This will kill the colony and destroy the chemical trail.
- Another option is to use a commercial ant killer. These products usually contain pyrethrin, a natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemums. Pyrethrin is safe for humans and pets, but is deadly to ants.
- You can also try using diatomaceous earth. This naturally occurring substance is composed of fossilized algae and is sharp enough to cut through an ant’s exoskeleton. You can find diatomaceous earth at most hardware stores or online.
Whichever method you choose, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and be patient. It may take a few days or weeks for the entire colony to be eliminated. But once they’re gone, you can enjoy your bathroom in peace!
HOW TO PREVENT LITTLE BLACK ANTS IN THE BATHROOM
Preventing an infestation of ants in the bathroom is relatively simple if you take a few precautionary measures.
- First, make sure that there is no food source for the ants by putting away anything that would attract ants, such as toothpaste and sugar medicines.
- Second, eliminate their water source by fixing any leaks and drying up any wet areas.
- Finally, make sure that the ants have no easy access to your bathroom by sealing up any cracks or crevices where they might enter.
By taking these simple steps, you can help to prevent an ant problem before it starts.
When Should You Hire a Professional to Get Rid Of Ants in the Bathroom?
If you’re still seeing ants in your bathroom after implementing the tips above, it might be time to call in a professional exterminator.
A professional will identify the source of the problem and eliminate the ants using safe, effective methods. Exterminators also know how to prevent ants from returning in the future.
So if you’ve tried all the methods and you’re still having trouble getting rid of ants, consider calling in the professionals.
Although it’s a little more work, getting rid of the ants completely is possible. We suggest you use the tips mentioned and take some preventative steps to keep them from coming back. We hope this post has been helpful and ensures that you’ll never see another ant in your bathroom again!
And if you need even more protection for your home, with help finding the best homeowners insurance coverage for the best price, start by speaking to a SimplyIOA agent at 833.872.4467 or get a homeowners insurance quote online now.
