Eliminate indoor food and water sources

What to Do

Store all food in sealed containers. Clean up crumbs and spills immediately — pay special attention to countertops, under appliances, and dining areas. Take out garbage daily. Fix water leaks under sinks and around pipes. Do not leave pet food and water out overnight.

Why It Works

Ants enter homes seeking food and water. Removing these attractants makes your home less appealing and forces foragers to spend more time searching, increasing their exposure to baits. Carpenter ants specifically seek moisture-damaged wood, so fixing leaks addresses both the food source and nesting attractant.

Tips

• Wipe down counters with a mild vinegar solution to disrupt pheromone trails
• Store ripe fruit in the refrigerator during ant season
• Check for dripping faucets and condensation under bathroom and kitchen cabinets
• Works best combined with baiting and exclusion — sanitation alone may not eliminate an established colony