Top 15 DIY Ant Killer Indoor [Make At Home]

Are ants invading your home and driving you crazy? I’ve been there too, and I know how frustrating it can be. 

Luckily, I’ve found some fantastic DIY ant killer solutions that work. In this article, I’ll share 15 easy and effective methods to help you get rid of ants indoors, all using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. 

Let’s dive in!

DIY Ant Killer Indoor

These are the best DIY ant killer repellents that you can make at home easily.

1. Vinegar and Water Spray

If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to keep ants at bay, vinegar, and water spray might be just what you need. 

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and shake it well. You can spray this solution directly on ants or around entry points like windowsills and doorways. 

The strong smell of vinegar disrupts their scent trails, making it hard for them to find their way. 

It’s completely safe for pets and kids. I’ve found this method particularly handy for small infestations, and it’s a quick fix that you can whip up in no time!

2. Borax and Sugar Bait

Creating a borax and sugar bait is another fantastic DIY solution for indoor ant problems. To make this bait, mix one part borax with three parts sugar. 

Add a bit of water to create a paste-like consistency. Spread the mixture on a piece of cardboard or a shallow dish and place it where you’ve seen ants. 

The sugar attracts the ants, while the borax acts as a poison that they carry back to their colony. 

This method works wonders over time, gradually reducing the ant population in your home. It’s a bit of a slow burn, but trust me, it’s worth the patience.

3. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that can be very effective against ants. Sprinkle a thin layer of food-grade diatomaceous earth around areas where ants are entering your home. 

The tiny particles are harmless to humans and pets but deadly to ants. They work by piercing the ants’ exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die. 

Make sure to reapply after vacuuming or if the powder gets wet. I’ve found this method to be a great long-term solution that doesn’t involve any harsh chemicals.

4. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a fantastic natural ant deterrent. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and mix it with a bit of water in a spray bottle. 

Spray this mixture along ant trails, entry points, and any areas where you’ve noticed ant activity. The strong citrus smell confuses ants and erases their scent trails. 

The acidity of the lemon juice can kill ants on contact. It’s an easy and pleasant-smelling way to keep your home ant-free and it leaves your house smelling fresh and clean!

5. Baking Soda and Sugar

For a straightforward DIY ant killer, try a mixture of baking soda and sugar. Combine equal parts baking soda and sugar and place the mixture in small, shallow containers near ant trails. 

The sugar attracts the ants, and the baking soda disrupts their digestive systems, ultimately killing them. 

This method is safe to use around pets and children and can effectively reduce ant populations in your home. It’s a tried-and-true method that many people swear by.

6. Cornmeal Bait

Cornmeal is another simple yet effective ant killer. Sprinkle cornmeal near ant trails and entry points. 

Ants are attracted to the cornmeal but can’t digest it properly, which eventually leads to their demise. 

This method works slowly, but it’s a safe option if you have pets or small children in the house. 

Cornmeal is easy to find and inexpensive, making it a convenient choice for ant control. I’ve had great success with this method, especially for minor infestations.

7. Essential Oils Spray

Using essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus can be a natural way to repel ants. Mix 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil with water in a spray bottle. 

Shake well and spray around windows, doors, and other entry points. The strong scent of the oils disrupts the ants’ ability to communicate and follow scent trails. 

This method not only deters ants but also leaves your home smelling delightful. It’s a win-win solution that I’ve found quite effective.

8. Cayenne Pepper and Water Spray

Cayenne pepper can be a potent ant deterrent. Mix a few teaspoons of cayenne pepper with water in a spray bottle and shake well. 

Spray this mixture along ant trails and entry points. The strong smell and spicy nature of cayenne pepper will drive ants away and prevent them from coming back. 

Be cautious when using this method around pets and small children, as the pepper can be irritating. However, it’s a powerful and natural way to keep ants out of your home.

9. Soap and Water Solution

A simple soap and water solution can effectively kill ants on contact. Mix a few drops of dish soap with water in a spray bottle and shake well. 

Spray the solution directly on ants and along their trails. The soap breaks down the ants’ exoskeletons, leading to their demise. 

This method is quick, easy, and safe to use around pets and children. It’s a handy solution to have on hand for immediate ant problems.

10. Coffee Grounds

Used coffee grounds can be an effective ant deterrent. Spread used coffee grounds around entry points and areas where you’ve noticed ant activity. 

The strong smell of coffee confuses ants and masks their scent trails. Coffee grounds are a natural, eco-friendly option that won’t harm your pets or children. 

I’ve found that this method not only helps with ant problems but also provides a great way to recycle coffee grounds.

11. Bay Leaves

Bay leaves are a natural ant repellent that can be placed in cabinets, pantry shelves, and other areas where ants are a problem. 

The strong scent of bay leaves is unappealing to ants and will deter them from entering those areas. Simply place whole bay leaves in problem areas, or crush them for a stronger scent. 

This method is safe, natural, and easy to implement. Plus, bay leaves are readily available in most kitchens.

12. Chalk Lines

Drawing chalk lines around entry points can help keep ants out of your home. The calcium carbonate in chalk interferes with ants’ ability to follow scent trails. 

Simply draw thick lines around windows, doors, and other entry points. This method is simple, non-toxic, and safe for children and pets. 

It’s a great temporary solution that can provide immediate results while you work on more permanent methods.

13. Boric Acid and Honey Bait

Create a boric acid and honey bait to effectively kill ants. Mix a small amount of boric acid with honey to create a sticky paste. 

Place the mixture on small pieces of cardboard or shallow dishes and set them near ant trails. The honey attracts the ants, and the boric acid poisons them. 

This method works over time, gradually reducing the ant population. It’s a powerful and effective solution, but be sure to keep it out of reach of pets and children.

14. Cucumber Peels

Cucumber peels can act as a natural ant deterrent. Place fresh cucumber peels in areas where you’ve seen ants. 

Ants dislike the taste and smell of cucumbers, so they’ll avoid these areas. This method is safe, non-toxic, and easy to implement. 

It’s a great way to use up leftover cucumber peels. I’ve found it to be a simple and effective way to keep ants at bay.

15. Mint Leaves

Mint leaves are a natural ant repellent that can be used to deter ants from entering your home. 

Place fresh or dried mint leaves around entry points and areas where you’ve noticed ant activity. The strong scent of mint disrupts ants’ scent trails and keeps them away. 

You can also plant mint around the perimeter of your home for an added layer of protection. This method is safe, and natural, and leaves your home smelling fresh and pleasant.