Getting rid of fire ants is a challenging task. Therefore, we have compiled some easy steps for Killing Fire Ants With Dawn Dish Soap!
Fire ants are a common nuisance for homeowners, as they can cause painful stings and damage to gardens and lawns. While several commercial products are available to control fire ant populations, some people prefer natural or DIY methods. One such product is dawn dish soap. Learn the steps for Killing Fire Ants with Dawn Dish Soap below!
Find out Does Epsom salt kill ants here
What Are Fire Ants?
Solenopsis is a species of stinging ants, which are commonly called Fire Ants due to their painful sting and red color. They range from 2 mm to 6 mm in size and set up colonies in open areas. Fire ants often make their mounds in gardens, driveways, grass or lawns, and other areas that give them easy access to food. They feast on fruits, vegetables, small insects, and other organic matter.
Fire ants contain venom, which they use to stun their prey and feed on them. Even for human beings, their venom can cause damage to the nervous system. Symptoms of a fire ant sting include:
- Intense pain
- Itching
- Burning sensations
- Nausea
- Hallucinations
Does Dish Soap Kill Fire Ants?
Dawn dish soap kills fire ants without harming the environment or posing a risk to your family and pets. This dish soap works by dehydrating their body. In addition, the soap’s viscosity traps the ants and prevents them from escaping. However, this home remedy is effective for mild ant infestation. If you’re facing a severe one, contact a professional for help.
Killing Fire Ants With Dawn Dish Soap
Dawn dish soap is an excellent natural and affordable alternative to commercial pesticides. It works by breaking down the exoskeletons of fire ants, and eventually, they die due to dehydration.
Try the below steps for killing fire ants with dawn dish soap.
Instructions
- Mix one tablespoon of dawn dishwashing liquid for every half a gallon of water.
- Transfer the mixture into spray bottles or watering cans.
- Pour the mixture directly over the mounds.
- Repeat the process for a few days until the entire colony of fire ants is dead.
- You can also spray the mixture on floors, sinks, countertops, and other such places where you’ve spotted ants.
Quick Advice: In case you are stung by a fire ant, you should consult your doctor immediately. You should also seek professional help if the ant infestation in your home is severe. For less severe infestations, this easy trick is the best way to get rid of the ‘dangerous’ ants species.
Other Home Remedies for Fire Ants
1. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Besides cleaning stubborn stains, the duo of baking soda and vinegar eliminates fire ants as well. Sprinkle baking soda all over the fire ants mound. Next, pour vinegar and wait until the fizzing action stops. Repeat this process until all the ants disappear.
2. Diatomaceous Earth
Another potent home remedy to get rid of fire ants is diatomaceous earth. It eliminates these pesky insects by drying their exoskeletons and creating tiny fissures. Spread diatomaceous earth on the mound and where ants often visit.
3. Boric Acid
According to The U.S. Department of Agriculture, boric acid kills fire ants and their colony. It affects their digestive system and dries out their exoskeletons. To create a bait, combine 1 tablespoon of boric acid, 3 teaspoons of sugar, and 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter. Put the bait on paper towels near the nest. The worker fire ants not only eat this bait but also take it to the colony. Repeat this hack once a week. You’ll get the results within a month.
4. Peppermint Oil
If fire ants constantly attack your home, repel them with peppermint oil. Ants dislike the strong aroma of mint oil and thus stay far away from the treated area. Grab peppermint oil, water, and a spray bottle. Read the details here.
5. Use Boil Water
Boiling water is one of the easiest and cheapest means to eliminate fire ants. Simply pour lots of boiling water all over the ants and the mound. Repeat this method daily until the ants are gone.
6. Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil
This study proves that the cinnamon leaf essential oil is quite effective against the red imported fire ants. Soak some cotton balls in the cinnamon leaf essential oil. Set the cotton balls where ants emerge often. Make sure to replace the cotton balls with new ones.
How to Prevent Fire Ants?
Preventing fire ants from invading your property is the best way to avoid dealing with these pesky and painful insects. Here are some tips:
- Keep your property clean and free of debris that could provide a nesting area for fire ants.
- Close all cracks and crevices in your home’s foundation, walls, windows, and doors to prevent ants from entering your home.
- Store all kinds of eatables in sealed containers.
- Clean up spills and crumbs immediately.
- Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
- Avoid overwatering your lawn or garden, as fire ants are attracted to moist soil. Eliminate standing water as well.
- Trim back trees and shrubs away from your home.
- Keep grass and vegetation short to reduce hiding places for fire ants.
- Use insecticides or natural repellents, such as citrus or vinegar, around your property to discourage fire ants from nesting.
- Regularly inspect your property for signs of fire ant activity, such as mounds, and take action to eliminate them before they become a problem.
- Keep trash cans tightly sealed and dispose of garbage regularly.
When to Contact a Professional?
Contact a professional when the infestation is large or widespread or you’re unable to control the ants yourself. A professional assesses the extent of the infestation and develops a targeted treatment plan to eliminate the ants.
Read about borax for carpenter ants here