April 9, 2025

How to Keep Ants Out of Your Kitchen This Summer

How to Keep Ants Out of Your Kitchen This Summer

Why Summer Ant Infestations Are So Common

As temperatures rise in Utah, so does ant activity. Ants are constantly searching for food and water, and your kitchen offers both. Once one scout finds a crumb or spill, the rest of the colony isn’t far behind. During summer months, it's common for homeowners to notice long lines of ants invading counters, pantries, and sinks.

Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent ants from turning your kitchen into their personal buffet. Here’s how to keep ants out before they become a major problem.

1. Eliminate Food Sources Immediately

Ants have an incredible sense of smell and will zero in on even the smallest food particles. To make your kitchen less inviting:

  • Wipe down counters daily
  • Sweep and vacuum regularly
  • Store sugar, flour, and snacks in sealed containers
  • Clean crumbs out of drawers and under appliances
  • Don’t leave pet food out for extended periods

Also, be sure to rinse dishes and load the dishwasher right away—leftovers on plates are an open invitation.

2. Take Out the Trash Often

Full trash cans are a favorite hangout for ants. Empty your kitchen garbage frequently, especially if it contains food scraps or sweet packaging. Keep your trash bins clean and use liners to reduce buildup inside.

If you have a compost bin, keep it outside and away from your home's foundation.

3. Fix Leaks and Dry Damp Areas

Ants don’t just need food—they also seek out water sources. Leaky faucets, under-sink moisture, and damp rags can attract thirsty ants. Repair plumbing issues quickly and ensure your kitchen stays dry, especially in hidden or hard-to-reach spots.

4. Seal Entry Points Around Your Home

Most ants enter through tiny cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards. Inspect your kitchen for possible entry points and seal them using caulk or weatherstripping. Focus on:

  • Window frames
  • Door thresholds
  • Wall penetrations for plumbing or wires

You can also install door sweeps and keep screens in good condition to reduce access points.

5. Use Natural Deterrents or Ant Baits

If you’re already seeing a few ants, try natural deterrents like:

  • Vinegar and water spray
  • Lemon juice
  • Cinnamon or peppermint oil along entry points

For more serious activity, place ant bait stations in areas where you’ve noticed traffic. These work by attracting ants and carrying poison back to the colony.

When to Call a Professional

If ant problems persist despite your best efforts, it’s time to call in the pros. At Bliss Pest Services, we identify the ant species, locate the source of the infestation, and apply safe, effective treatments that eliminate ants at the colony level—not just the surface.

We also provide prevention plans to help keep your kitchen ant-free all summer long.

Protect Your Kitchen with Bliss Pest Services

A clean kitchen should be yours—not theirs. If ants are invading your space, let Bliss Pest Services help. Contact us today for a free quote and let our expert team create a plan that keeps pests out for good.

Blog Author Image

Eric Ruiz

Eric Ruiz is the co-owner of Bliss Pest Services, a trusted pest control company based in West Jordan, Utah. With years of hands-on experience in residential and commercial pest management, Eric is passionate about educating property owners on effective prevention and treatment strategies. He specializes in identifying pest patterns unique to Northern Utah and delivering customized solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and long-term protection.