Ants
What to do? Tips for effective control
Ant trails in the kitchen or living room? Learn how to identify, effectively control, and permanently get rid of an ant infestation.
What are ants?
Ants (Formicidae) are social insects that live in large colonies and are characterized by their organized way of life. In Germany, the black garden ant (Lasius niger) and the pharaoh ant (Monomorium pharaonis) are particularly well-known. Although they are useful in nature, they can become a nuisance in the house, especially when they are looking for food. Once an ant trail is discovered, the infestation can spread quickly and become a persistent problem.
How do ants spread in the household?
Ants get into the house in various ways and spread there.
Food search
Ants are attracted to open food and sweet substances.
Scent trails
They leave pheromone trails that other ants follow.
Cracks and crevices
The smallest openings in walls or windows serve as entry points.
Plants
They can get into the house via potted plants.
Heat sources
Electrical appliances or heaters offer warm hiding places.
How to recognize an ant infestation?
An ant infestation is indicated by various signs that point to their presence.
Ant trails
Long lines of ants moving between the nest and the food source.
Individual ants
Scouts looking for food.
Nest building
Piles of soil or sand in cracks or on walls.
Odor
A slightly sweet smell can indicate certain types of ants.
Damaged food packaging
Signs of ants gaining access.
Unsure?
Ants or something else?
Are you unsure whether it is actually ants? Our infestation analysis provides clarity: Simply upload a photo of your find and receive an expert assessment of the pest species immediately.
Let pests be identified nowWhere do ants hide?
Ants look for protected places in the house to build nests or find food.
Kitchen cabinets
Especially near food.
Wall cracks
Small cracks offer ideal hiding places.
Under skirting boards
Dark and protected areas.
Behind electrical appliances
Heat sources are attractive.
What are the consequences of an ant infestation?
An untreated ant infestation can have various negative effects.
Hygiene risk
Ants can transmit germs.
Food contamination
Open supplies become unusable.
Structural damage
Some species gnaw on wood or insulation.
Allergic reactions
Possible in sensitive individuals.
How to prevent ants?
Targeted prevention can often avoid an ant infestation.
Store food safely
Store in airtight containers.
Cleanliness
Remove crumbs and food residues immediately, especially next to windows and similar openings.
Seal entry points
Close cracks and crevices.
Scent barriers
Use lemon peels, vinegar, or cinnamon as a natural deterrent.
When is an ant infestation reportable?
In private households, an ant infestation is generally not reportable. However, an infestation with pharaoh ants in community facilities such as hospitals, schools, or retirement homes is reportable. An infestation with pharaoh ants can also lead to problems in private houses or apartments, as they can transmit diseases. Therefore, report immediately!
How to control ants?
Control depends on the extent of the infestation. Minor infestations can often be treated with home remedies, while severe or deep-seated infestations require professional methods.
Home remedies
Vinegar solution
Wipe ant trails with vinegar to remove the scent trails.
Baking soda-sugar mixture
Lay out as bait to attract and control ants.
Cinnamon or chalk
Sprinkle barriers at possible entry points that ants avoid.
Purchasable ant baits
Commercially available and usually contain effective insecticides.
Professional control
Pest control
In the case of a severe or recurring infestation, a professional should be consulted who will take targeted and sustainable measures.
Thermal methods
Use of heat to kill all stages of development.
Professional methods offer a high success rate and are particularly recommended for extensive infestations.
Effectively control ants with Thermo-bug®
The most efficient and sustainable method for controlling ants in the household is the use of Thermo-bug®. The chemical-free process uses targeted heat to safely eliminate all life stages of the pest – egg, larva, worker, queen.
Advantages of the Thermo-bug® method:
Chemical-free
No pollutant exposure for humans, animals, or the environment.
Holistic control
Reliably kills ants in every stage of development.
Gentle on inventory
Furniture and pantries remain undamaged.
Fast effect
Can be used as an acute measure – usually in just one treatment.
Ideal for sensitive areas
Perfectly suited for households with children or allergy sufferers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As a rule, ants are not dangerous, but they can transmit germs and contaminate food.
Ants can get into the house through cracks, crevices, or via plants.
A combination of cleanliness, sealing of entry points, and targeted control, e.g. with Thermo-bug®, is most effective.
Act now!
with Thermo-bug® against ants
If you want to get rid of ants permanently, Thermo-bug® is the safe solution. Our professional team analyzes your case, advises you transparently, and relies on an effective, chemical-free method that reliably kills all stages of development of the pest. Together we will find the best strategy for your situation. With Thermo-bug® you trust in a proven method – fast, safe and environmentally friendly.
Use Thermo-bug® NowThermo-bug® can do more than just bed bugs!
Learn how to identify and control various pests: