Nonchemical control Trying to discourage ants from invading the home can be frustrating. Proper food storage and waste management will reduce the food that often attracts workers and draws large numbers of ants indoors. Clean all kitchen surfaces, vacuum daily, and rinse recyclable containers before storage. Ant trails can be chemically disrupted with a mild solution of vinegar and water. Sticky barriers using commercially available materials, such as Tanglefoot or Stickem, or water moats containing soapy water can be used to prevent ants from reaching plants or other items.
Caulk cracks that ants are using to enter the home.
Outdoors Many ants enter homes from outside nests as they forage for food. To find their nest, follow the ants. You can encourage foraging by setting out attractive food. Common insecticides for treating ant nests in the lawn are listed below. Retreatment of nest sites may be necessary if above ground activity resumes after the initial application.