If you’ve been searching for ways to get rid of ants, you may have come across the idea of using cornstarch. Some homeowners swear by it, while others say it’s ineffective. So, does cornstarch actually work as an ant killer, or is it just another home remedy?
Let’s break it down and explore better options for ant control.
Key Takeaways
- Cornstarch can trap and suffocate ants, but it won’t stop new ones from appearing or eliminate the colony.
- More effective DIY solutions include borax bait, diatomaceous earth, vinegar spray, baking soda, and essential oils.
- Boiling water, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper can help get rid of ants and keep them from coming back.
- If you have a big ant problem, a pest control professional can remove the whole colony and stop future infestations.
Does Cornstarch Kill Ants?
Some people claim cornstarch is an effective way to get rid of ants, but it doesn’t work like a traditional ant killer.
Instead of poisoning them, cornstarch suffocates ants when used correctly.
To try this method, pour cornstarch directly over a group of worker ants, then lightly spray water using a spray bottle. The mixture forms a thick paste that traps the ants, making it impossible for them to escape.
Over time, they suffocate.
While it may trap and suffocate some ants, it falls short as a long-term solution. Here’s why it’s not the best method for tackling an ant infestation:
- Doesn’t eliminate ant colonies – Killing a few worker ants won’t stop new ones from appearing.
- Doesn’t target the queen – The queen is responsible for growing ant populations, and cornstarch won’t reach her.
- Messy cleanup – The sticky cornstarch paste requires thorough cleaning.
If you have a minor ant problem, cornstarch may help temporarily. However, if you’re dealing with a full ant infestation, you’ll need more effective methods.
How to Get Rid of Ants Without Cornstarch
If you want a DIY solution that works better than cornstarch, try these proven options:
1. Borax and Cornmeal Ant Bait
A combination of borax and cornmeal is one of the best ways to get rid of ants naturally. The cornmeal attracts the ants, while the borax poisons them when they bring it back to their ant colonies.
Mix equal parts of borax and cornmeal, then place small amounts near ant trails and entry points. The ants will carry the mixture back to their colony, where it slowly eliminates them.
2. Diatomaceous Earth
Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a natural ant repellent that kills ants by damaging their exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate. Sprinkle along baseboards, windows, and entry points where ants are getting inside.
If you’re dealing with fire ants or Argentine ants, apply it directly around their ant hills to dry them out and help eliminate the colony.
3. White Vinegar and Dish Soap Spray
A mixture of white vinegar and dish soap is an effective way to erase scent trails and kill ants on contact.
To make it, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then add a few drops of dish soap and shake well.
Spray the solution directly on ant trails, kitchen countertops, and floors to wipe out active ants and erase their scent trails.
4. Baking Soda and Boric Acid Ant Killer
Like borax, baking soda and boric acid can disrupt ants’ digestion and help reduce ant populations. To use it, mix equal parts baking soda, sugar, and boric acid. Then, place near ant trails and common food sources.
5. Essential Oils
Certain essential oils, like peppermint, eucalyptus, and neem, act as a strong ant repellent. Try soaking cotton balls in peppermint oil and placing them near entry points where ants get inside.
You can also mix eucalyptus oil with water and spray it around doors and windows to create a strong barrier that keeps ants out.
6. Boiling Water for Ant Hills
For outdoor ant hills, especially fire ants, boiling water is a quick way to eliminate them. Just pour boiling water directly into the ant hills, making sure it seeps deep into the tunnels.
You may need to repeat this a few times to wipe out the entire colony.
7. Lemon Juice and Cayenne Pepper
Both lemon juice and cayenne pepper mask scent trails and repel ants from entering your home. Spray lemon juice around entry points to disrupt scent trails and make it harder for ants to find their way.
For extra protection, sprinkle cayenne pepper along baseboards and cracks—ants hate the smell and will avoid crossing it.
When to Call a Professional Exterminator
If you’re dealing with a large ant infestation, especially carpenter ants, fire ants, or recurring ant problems, it’s best to call a pest control professional.
At Simple Pest Management, we know how frustrating an ant problem can be.
That’s why we don’t just treat the ants you see—we go after the entire colony to make sure they’re gone for good. We use targeted treatments to get rid of them fast. We also seal off entry points and give you tips to keep ants from coming back.
Contact us today for fast, reliable ant control!
