Reasons Ants Come Into Homes
Ants don’t just randomly pick your place. There’s always a reason they march in and make themselves comfortable. Most of the time, it’s not your fault. The Central Valley’s climate, combined with all the ways food and moisture collect in a home, creates the perfect storm.
Once ants catch wind of something they like, they tell their whole colony, and that’s when the real trouble begins. Here are some of the top reasons they move in:
- Food Crumbs and Spills: Ants are small but smart. Even a tiny smudge of peanut butter or spilled juice under the fridge is enough to attract them.
- Pet Food Left Out: That bowl of kibble isn’t just tempting for your dog. Ants love protein, and pet food is like a buffet to them.
- Access to Water: Leaky pipes, wet dishcloths, or water under the sink can attract ants, especially in hot weather.
- Unsealed Cracks and Gaps: Ants are tiny and can sneak in through even the smallest cracks near windows, doors, or plumbing.
- Sweet Pantry Items: Sugar, syrup, cereal — anything sweet is prime ant territory. If these aren’t stored in airtight containers, ants will find them.
