Carpenter ants may be a major annoyance which cause damage on wooden structures in our home if left unchecked. Although there are many ways to deal with these pests, using smells that repel them is an effective strategy. In this article, we will explore what smell do carpenter ants hate and how to use those smells effectively to get rid of carpenter ants.
What Smell Do Carpenter Ants Hate?
Like many other pests, carpenter ants mainly depend on their sense of smell for contact and movement. Some smells make it difficult for them to find food sources and create trails, which makes them uneasy and want to leave the area. Using repellant smells, we can create an unwelcoming atmosphere for these pests without using harmful chemicals.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is known for its powerful and pleasant aroma, which makes it a popular pest insect repellent, especially for carpenter ants. These insects are strongly allergic to the pungent scent of peppermint oil, which makes it an effective natural repellent. To repel carpenter ants, simply combine a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spray the baseboards, windowsills, and doorways. To keep the solution working, reapply it on a regular basis.
Citrus Power
Carpenter ants are also repelled by the fresh smells of lemon, orange, and grapefruit. You can use citrus essential oils or fresh citrus peels to repel these pests. To make a citrus-infused spray, soak citrus peels in hot water and filter the liquid into a spray bottle. You can also mix a few drops of citrus essential oil with water and spray it around your home’s entry points and locations prone to ant activity.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a useful home ingredient that can effectively repel ants. The strong vinegar odour affects the ant’s trails, making it harder for them to navigate and communicate with one another. In a spray bottle, combine equal amounts of vinegar and water and apply it to areas where ants are located. Also, spray the mixture in the kitchen and living room to prevent ants from searching for food there.
Clove Oil
Clove oil contains eugenol, which is a strong ant repellant. Its strong odour may prevent carpenter ants and other insect pests from entering your home. Mix clove oil with water and spray it in places where ants are seen, such as cracks and crevices, in your house.
Conclusion
Carpenter ants are highly sensitive to the above fragrances. Therefore, these natural repellents are an efficient approach to keep them away. By using this ingredient, we can easily create an unwanted environment for carpenter ants and protect your home from infestation. If these natural repellents are not working means, then the only solution is to go with the help of a pest control services.