As summer approaches, warmer weather often brings a familiar challenge indoors: ants looking for food and shelter. While they may be small, they can quickly become an unwelcome distraction. With a few simple strategies, it’s possible to stay comfortable at home and keep ants where they belong.

Start with safety

Store any ant-controlled products securely and always keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Use bait-based solutions

Ant baits work by attracting ants to a food source they carry back to the nest, helping reduce activity over time. Since different ants prefer different foods, using both sweet and protein-based baits can be helpful. Place them near areas where ants appear, such as kitchen cabinets, appliances, drains, or small wall openings; but avoid placing them directly in ant trails.

Focus on prevention outdoors

Reducing ant activity outside can make a big difference indoors. Outdoor baits and granules can help, while repellent sprays around doors, windows, and other entry points can discourage ants from coming inside. Keeping patios, walkways, and outdoor eating areas clean and free of crumbs can also reduce what attracts ants in the first place.

Try natural deterrents

Food-grade diatomaceous earth can be applied near entry points and along common paths. Cleaning surfaces with a mix of dish soap and glass cleaner helps remove scent trails that ants follow. Ants also tend to avoid strong scents, so brewed coffee grounds, black or red pepper, or essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or lemon eucalyptus can help. Mix essential oils with water in a spray bottle or place scented cotton balls in problem areas, reapplying as needed.

With a little preparation, ant season doesn’t have to disrupt summer plans. Small steps now can help keep your home comfortable and stress-free all season long. Staying consistent with prevention makes it easier to enjoy open windows, outdoor meals, and relaxed summer days. A little attention now can save time and frustration later.