Every year as the weather gets warmer, the ants go marching one by one. To frustrated homeowners, the reemergence of these lines of ants signals the first shots in an upcoming battle between man and insect that may last the entire summer and beyond.

Ants are a common problem in millions of homes throughout the country. Just when you think you have solved the problem, a new line of ants will appear in the exact same place and cause even more exasperation. This is because ants mark their paths with pheromone trails so that other ants can follow. These scent trails help ants navigate and will keep more coming back even after you have eliminated the visible ones.

Luckily, there are natural, effective solutions to your ant problems. Essential oils just may be the answer you are looking for. Allow us to introduce you to three of the most effective essential oils that will send those ants marching the other direction.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Most insects, including ants, hate the smell of peppermint and will steer clear of it. The strong smell will also interfere with their scent trails keeping them far away from your house. As a bonus, your home will also smell great.

Apply some peppermint oil to a cotton ball and wipe the baseboards or other entry points with the cotton ball. You can also leave the peppermint doused cotton ball in cupboards or pantries where ants tend to go.

Peppermint also works well in spray form. Fill a small spray bottle with distilled water and add 10 drops of the essential oil. Spray this solution around the baseboards or anywhere else that you see ants entering. Peppermint oil can be reapplied as needed to maintain control.

Orange or Lemon Essential Oil

Citrus fruit contain a compound in their peel called d-limonene which is harmless to humans, but toxic to ants. D-limonene dissolves the waxy coating of the ant’s exoskeleton. This will kill any ants that have been directly sprayed, and the citrusy smell will also act as a deterrent for future ants.

Once again, fill a small spray bottle with distilled water and add orange or lemon essential oil to the water. Spray this mixture on the line of ants, on the ant hill, or around the perimeter of your home. If you don’t have the essential oil, you can also put some orange rinds in a blender with water and blend until smooth. You can use this mixture just as you would the essential oil blend.

Clove Essential Oil

Clove oil contains a substance called eugenol, which kills insects on contact. The clove odor is also repellent to insects like ants, flies, and moths. Clove oil can be used on its own, but often works best when combined with peppermint or orange oil. Just get a quart of water, add a few drops of whichever combination of oils you prefer, and then pour it into a spray bottle. If you have liver disease or are pregnant, consult a doctor before using clove oil.

Everyone wants safe, effective solutions to their pest problems. Hopefully, you will get some relief from your battle with ants this summer with some of these essential oil remedies. If you need some more help to get rid of ants in Kansas City, Six Brothers Pest Control is here to help. We use only the safest products and treatments available. Like you, we are dedicated to keeping your family safe and healthy.