Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF
President at Go Green
January 31, 2025
Sugar ants are often attracted to sugary or sweet substances. If they’re coming into your house, they might have found food sources like crumbs, spills, or even pet food. They can also be drawn to moisture in areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Sugar ants, also known as sweet ants, are a type of small ant that primarily seeks out sugary food sources. While they’re not actually a specific species, the term “sugar ant” is often used to describe several species of ants that prefer sweet foods, especially in homes. They are commonly attracted to things like sugar, syrup, honey, and other sugary snacks, but will also go after greasy or fatty foods if necessary.
The most common species referred to as “sugar ants” they’re typically small, about 1/8 inch long, and can form long trails when they find food.
These ants usually build their nests outdoors, but they can invade homes in search of food, especially during warmer months or if there’s easy access to a food source indoors.
Here’s how to get rid of them:
- Clean up food sources: Make sure to wipe down surfaces, clean up crumbs, and store food in airtight containers. Also, take out the trash regularly.
- Seal entry points: Try to figure out where they’re coming in from, such as cracks around windows or doors, and seal those off with caulk.
- Create barriers: You can use natural deterrents like cinnamon, vinegar, or lemon juice along entry points or ant trails. Sugar ants don’t like strong scents!
- Ant bait: If the problem persists, ant bait can be helpful. The ants take the bait back to their colony, which can help eliminate them at the source.
- DIY sprays: A mix of water and dish soap in a spray bottle can work to kill ants on contact, and the soap can block their scent trails.
- https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/sugar-ants-in-your-house/
- https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/sugar-ants-in-your-house/
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/sugar-ants-your-house-randy-bilesky-w0s9c
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