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From apartments downtown Toronto to town homes in the suburbs of Burlington and Mississauga, and everything in between, ants are a common pest.  Typically ants will build their nests outdoors, using your home as a place to forage for food and water. There are species of ants, however, who will build their nests inside, invading your home. Pavement ants and carpenter ants are the most common indoor ants, and can be the most difficult to remove.

With heating, shelter from the rain and an endless supply of food and water, your home looks like a five star, all inclusive resort to ants. And their favourite spot? Your kitchen.

If you find yourself in and out of the kitchen during the day, snacking here and there, know that you are not the only one. Ants love to snack all day, which is why they love your kitchen. Putting food into plastic containers before putting it away in the pantry is one way to deter ants. Making sure any and all leftovers are either put away in the fridge or disposed of properly, will also help deter ants from settling in.

What we see as just a crumb, an ant sees as an entire meal. When crumbs are left behind, ants are more enticed to invade your home. Ignoring small chores, like wiping the counters and sweeping the floors,leaves food  behind for ants, and they’re sure to tell their friends. At the end of a meal it can be tempting to just leave your dishes in the sink. Promptly washing any dishes, or stacking them in the dishwasher, takes away potential snacks for ants. Also ensuring the sink is clean and free of any food will help keep ants away.

Ants don’t come to your kitchen just for the bottomless buffet, they’re also looking for water. Something as simple as a wet piece of paper towel is an abundant source of water for ants. Keeping kitchen counters and sink dry will let ants know there is nothing for them in your kitchen.

Doing a little bit of cleaning each day will go a long way in preventing an ant infestation. Once they have made their way into your home, through tiny cracks and crevices, ants are sure to make a beeline for your kitchen.Make sure they know they’re unwelcome guests! Storing all food properly and keeping your kitchen mess free, will force ants to find a new place to feed.

 

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If you find yourself in the middle of an ant infestation that you just can’t get control of, ICE Wildlife and Pest Control is here to help! With decades of experience removing pavement and carpenter ants from homes all over the GTA, we’re sure to leave your home ant free!