I’m a first-time mom. I believe these are sugar ants. Tackling random DIY projects while my husband is at work and my toddler is asleep is how I spend my free time these days. Other herbs and spices, like garlic, mint and citrus, are effective pest repellents because insects do not like their smells, and it is believed that the same principle applies to bay leaves. Eblin received a master's degree in historic preservation from the Savannah College of Art and Design. That’s why I decided to try the bay leaf home remedy for taking care of ants first. Bay leaves are a popular ingredient in spaghetti sauces and soups, but they can also be used as a natural way to repel insects. For example, I've worked at a vet, in a photo lab, and at a zoo -- to name a few. As it turns out, I only had to “change” the bay leaves that one time (mentioned in the update above). When I’m not cleaning, organizing, decorating, or fixing something… you’ll find me at the corner of Good News & Fun Times as publisher of The Fun Times Guide (32 fun & helpful websites). The ants may come back when the scent of the leaves disappears. Because it is the pungent odor of bay leaves which repels insects, it should come as no surprise that other strong-smelling herbs and spices are also effective in deterring insects. Garlic, cucumber peels, cayenne pepper and mint are some of the most frequent all-natural pest repellents recommended for in-home use, though lemon, basil and essential oils have also been known to work. ), Then, to make sure I had the entire area covered, I dropped a few between the garbage can and the baseboards in that same corner. I enjoy the outdoors via bicycle, motorcycle, Jeep, or RV. I like to help people find unique ways to do things that will save time & money -- so I write about "outside the box" Household Tips and Life Hacks that most wouldn't think of. So I can highly recommend trying bay leaves to deter an ant problem in whatever room the ants are bugging you! I work from home and I write. Here’s how Terro recommends getting rid of sugar ants. I thought I might have to change them regularly, after the ants returned that first time — but no. Years ago, in the midst of a moth infestation, we read that bay leaves repel pantry insects. Her work has appeared on several websites, including Tool Box Tales and Zonder. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Place the bay leaves in any area where you see the ants, including cabinets, counters and floors. I also enjoy discovering new products and gadgets that will make life easier with a dog, a cat, an active little boy, a Harley-loving husband, and all of our extended family! (It’s not crammed in, and could easily “blow” away with enough of a breeze or by tapping it. The ants may come back when the scent of the leaves disappears. Grind the bay leaves into a fine powder using your food processor. The ants will carry the bait into the ant hill, and the boric acid will kill them. Dried bay leaves, when sprinkled around your home, can be just as effective in warding off nuisance insects, like cockroaches, ants and fleas, as can some of the most popular commercial insecticide sprays. Not a single one since I strategically placed the bay leaves in our kitchen. Alternatively, simply shoot the ant hills with water from your water hose to rinse away their nest. Finally, I placed a single bay leaf on the countertop area where I’d seen several ants recently. We had no more ants! Check the bay leaves once a day and replace as needed. Considerations. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English with a creative writing concentration from Marietta College. I enjoy the outdoors via bicycle, motorcycle, Jeep, or RV. As far as getting rid of the ants, I decided not to use any of the chemicals we had in the cabinet for insects & other pests. Though the effectiveness of bay leaves as an insect repellent has been tested against these bugs, bay leaves also may work for other types of household pests, including spiders and moths. So I stuck an entire bay leaf there. So I can highly recommend trying bay leaves to deter an ant problem in whatever room the ants are bugging you! Prior to that, I worked in Higher Ed over 10 years before switching gears to pursue activities that I’m truly passionate about instead. Prior to that, I worked in Higher Ed over 10 years before switching gears to pursue activities that I'm truly passionate about instead. I’m also a lifelong dog owner -- so I often share my favorite tips for living with dogs inside your home (like smart home design choices and dog-friendly cleaning & decorating ideas). By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, Wayne's Word: Allspice, Bay Rum, Bay Leaves, Capers, Cloves, Cinnamon, Camphor, Witch Hazel & Nutmeg. (I was going to try Cinnamon next.). And I’d been having some fairly serious bouts with those critters (the very small black kind) for several weeks up until this point. One of the biggest reasons I like the bay leaf method of removing ants is it’s so simple and clean.