Have you ever been surprised to suddenly find ants in your room? Because ants are extremely small, they can enter through even tiny gaps, and if left alone, the problem can quickly grow into a large infestation.This article explains why they get in, how to eliminate them, and how to prevent them from coming back.
Why do ants enter a room?
They are attracted by the smell of food
Ants are drawn to sugar, sweets, rice, flour, and similar foods, and they enter after detecting the smell of leftovers or partially eaten food.Ants also have a habit of signaling food locations to other ants with a substance called formic acid, so leaving even one ant alone can lead to a much larger infestation. Wipe the area as soon as you notice it, and store food in sealed containers.
They enter through gaps in walls and window frames
Because ants are extremely small, they can get in through almost any route, including gaps in window frames, cracks in walls, and drain openings.Even in high-rise apartments, they may travel in through drainage pipes.
Potted plants can become a nesting base
Potted plants on balconies or in gardens can easily become ant nests, so if ants appear frequently, consider removing or relocating the pots.
It is important to block entry points first
The most fundamental measure is to seal the gaps that serve as entry points with putty or tape.Putty adheres well and lasts a long time, but in rental properties, you should confirm with the management company in advance. Tape is inexpensive, but it needs to be replaced regularly.
Four ways to eliminate ants in a room
Insecticides (spray or bait type)
Ant-specific insecticides available at home improvement stores are the most reliable option.Spray types work immediately, while bait types may eliminate the entire nest.
Baking soda solution (baking soda: water = 1:1)
Baking soda acts as a toxin to ants.If it is placed along entry routes or travel paths, ants may consume it.
Vinegar spray (vinegar: water = 1:1)
Ants dislike the smell of vinegar.It can be sprayed directly on them for control, and spraying it at entry points also helps with prevention.
Dish soap spray (dish soap: water = 1:2)
Dish soap enters the ants' breathing pores and suffocates them.When sprayed directly, it works quickly.
If the problem is beyond your control, consult the management company
If self-treatment is reaching its limits or the infestation is severe, contact the management company (or building manager).In rental properties, if insecticides or liquid solutions damage walls or floors, you may be charged restoration costs, so avoid forcing a self-treatment approach.
Related reading
- The complete guide to pre-move-in inspections that determine rental management success | Preventing trouble and maintaining asset value
- How do you replace an entrance chime? Explaining costs, precautions, and how to choose a contractor
- How to choose a property management company for rental real estate | Seven points owners should prioritize
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What should I do first if I see ants in my room?
First, clear away food scraps and exposed food, then check the route they are using. After that, identifying and sealing the entry point is the fundamental solution.
Q. Which is more effective, store-bought insecticides or natural extermination methods?
In terms of reliability, store-bought insecticides, especially bait types, are more effective. Natural materials such as vinegar and baking soda are less immediate, but they can offer greater peace of mind in homes with children or pets.
Q. Can ants appear even in high-rise apartments?
Yes, they can. In some cases, they enter through drainage pipes or elevator shafts.
Q. If ants infest a rental property in large numbers, who pays the cost?
If the cause is a structural issue in the building, such as gaps or piping, the owner typically bears the cost. If the cause is how food is being managed by the resident, the resident side may need to address it. Report the situation to the management company first.
