“Practice safety measures every time you’re using outdoor ant killer products.” – PestGuide
Best Outdoor Ant Killer Products
There’s nothing wrong with having a few ants on your property as long as they are not causing any havoc. But these days, you can no longer be sure if their presence is not already a sign of infestation. So, it might be best if you take care of them as quickly as possible.
As tiny as they may be, ants can create enormous problems. Despite their size, ants are pests that can cause damage to you and your property. Here are a few reasons they are considered harmful:
- Ants tend to build nests underneath the soil. As they grow in numbers, the more they can cause damage to the ground.
- Ants also tend to chew on a plant’s stem or trunk because of their omnivorous nature. Other than that, they eat animals, grains, etc.
- Ants can affect your family’s health as their stings can cause allergic reactions in some people. Their stings can be painful and may lead to swelling, redness, and itchiness. In worst cases, they can bring on severe reactions such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, dizziness, chest pain, and difficulty in breathing.
Because of these dangers, it’s crucial to prevent an ant infestation in your home. If you have this problem already, read on to know about the best outdoor ant killer products that may work for you.
Terro Outdoor Liquid Ant Baits
Terro Outdoor Liquid Ant Baits is an excellent solution to eliminate ant colonies on your property. The product contains a chemical called Borax which smells pleasing to the ant. It works by taking the bait to their territory, eventually killing all ants that consumed it.
Features:
- Bait stations are pre-filled and ready for usage
- Removes ant colonies as fast as two weeks
- Contains Borax
- Flexible bait placements
Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Bait
The Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Bait is a dual-action solution that prevents ants from entering your home. At the same time, the bait works to eliminate ants that consume the chemical.
Features:
- Eradicates a large number of different ant species.
- Eliminates the ant queen and its colony
- An effective dual solution that attracts and kills ants
Ortho BugClear Insect Killer for Lawns and Landscapes
Ortho BugClear Insect Killer is best for eliminating outdoor pests, including ants. Simply attach the hose to the sprayer and mist the affected area. It’s also non-staining and odour-free.
Features:
- Kills pests within minutes of spraying
- Eliminates other variants of insects, including mosquitoes, fleas, spiders, and armyworms
- Comes with a sprayer you can connect to your garden hose
Combat Max Ant Killing Gel
Combat Max Ant Killing Gel is a pesticide used to kill an entire colony of ants. It contains Fipronil which exterminates ants in hours.
Features:
- Gel bait kills ants and the entire colony
- High water content encourages faster feeding, so it starts killing within an hour
- Ready-to-use directly from the syringe for fast, easy application
HotShot Ant Killer Plus
HotShot Ant Killer Plus is an aerosol spray with a water-based, unscented formula. It kills a variety of ants and other common household insects.
Features:
- Kills on contact
- Residue remains effective up to 4 months
- No oily residue, non-staining
Raid Multi-Insect Killer 7
Raid Multi-Insect Killer 7 is another insecticide spray. It works best in repelling and killing crawling and flying insects.
Features:
- Exterminates ants, spiders, roaches, and flies
- No lingering chemical odour
- For indoor and outdoor use
Spectracide Terminate
Spectracide Terminate treats areas infested with termites and ants. Most homeowners opt for this product for indoor and home foundation treatment.
Features:
- Easy to use
- Comes with an AccuShot sprayer
- Great for indoor and outdoor use
BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer
BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer is concentrated with a two-way formula that kills surface and soil insects.
Features:
- Kills surface pests in 24 hours
- Kills soil insects for up to three months
- Treats a large area
Terro Liquid Ant Baits
Terro Liquid Ant Baits keeps ants at bay by luring them to eat the lethal bait and take it back to the nest.
Features:
- Pre-filled and ready-to-use
- Bait stations prevent drying out
- Compact and easy to place anywhere
What Are the Types of Ants?
Ants come in many shapes and sizes. You can spot red, brown, black, or yellow ants depending on your location. In terms of proportions, adults may range from 1/16 to 1/32 inch. They may be tiny beings, but they can sting painfully.
Should you be concerned about their presence? The answer is yes. Most ant species gather in groups to invade homes. In Canada, ants are among the wide range of pests that cause problems to homeowners. If left to their own devices, the property damage they can cause can be more than you can imagine.
If you are curious about the types of ants that predominate in Canada, below is a list of ant species you need to be on the lookout for.
Carpenter Ants
This is the typical type of ant species you can find in anyone’s home. They can get as big as 1.3 cm and are often black.
Contrary to its name, these ants lack skills in building. Instead, they act like termites, demolishing anything that’s wood and creating structural damage in the long run.
Although they have no interest in humans, they are captivated by anything sweet. So, you better close the lid of your sugary foods tight.
Carpenters ants are generally harmless. But pest control efforts are necessary if the infestation gets worse.
Pavement Ants
As the name implies, these ants reside in pavement cracks or cemented roads. A regular pavement ant is about 2 to 4 mm long, and they look taller than other ant species.
Since they have a sweet tooth, they can invade your kitchen space and ravage your sugary snacks. Unlike carpenter ants, you don’t have to worry about damaged wood materials with pavement ants.
Pharaoh Ants
Colonies of these ant species tend to work in large numbers. They settle in commercial food spaces such as hotels, restaurants, and grocery stores. These establishments are where they find their food sources, including sweets, oils, and proteins. Other than that, they also devour dead insects.
Most of these ant species only grow about 2mm in length and they have black markings on their abdomen. Research has shown that Pharaoh ants are responsible for spreading pathogens, including Streptococcus Pyogenes and salmonella.
An ant infestation is never welcome for many homeowners. Unfortunately, it’s something that’s unavoidable at times. It’s a good thing that there are several ways you can treat an ant infestation in your home. Read on to learn about ways to eradicate ants straight from the source.
Scorpion Fly Pros
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Scorpion flies are not venomous since their stingers are genetalia.
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Scorpion flies do not infest indoors.
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Scorpion flies feed on decomposing matters which allows the decomposing process become faster and make the soil be nourished quickly.
Scorpion Fly Cons
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Scorpion flies are strange-looking insect found in gardens, hedgerows and woodland edges.
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Male scorpion flies can be easily killed by the female scorpion flies.
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Scorpion flies have two pairs of wings, but they are weak flyers.
What Are the Best Outdoor Ant Killers?
Natural Methods
You can go for a natural approach to removing ants and their colonies from your property. Here is a list of natural solutions that don’t involve harmful chemicals or toxins.
- Boric Acid – One of the most effective natural treatments against ant infestation is boric acid. Simply combine boric acid and sugar until it turns into a sticky texture. Once done, place the paste on the entrances of the ant colony. Due to the sweet smell, ants will be drawn to the substance and carry some for their queen. The consumption of boric acid will lead to the death of the queen and other ants.
- White Vinegar – White vinegar is another great way to remove ants. Pour a litre of white vinegar into the ant colony, and it will kill them. This method won’t damage your plants or the soil.
- Diatomaceous Earth – This is an excellent ant repellent that works wonders. The powdery substance comes from the fossilized remnants of marine phytoplankton. All you have to do is sprinkle on surfaces where there are infestations. It works better if the ground is dry.
- Dishwashing Liquid and Oil – Another good home remedy with a high success rate is a mixture of dishwashing liquid and oil. To create this concoction, pour half a teaspoon of dish soap, one and a half teaspoons of cooking oil, and a quart of water. Put the mixture into a spray bottle and mist some into the ants’ nests. The mixture will soak their exoskeleton and suffocate them in the process.
Commercial Methods
Natural remedies against ant infestations take time to work. Compared to other methods, the active ingredients in them are not as fatal. So, if you prefer a fast-acting solution with immediate results, you can opt for the following commercial pest treatments:
- Ant Killer Gel or Spray – Gardening stores often stock pest deterrents and poisons, including ant killer gel/spray. The treatment comes with a sweet scent, which entices ants to feast on them. You can use this on your infested garden, and it won’t cause harm to your soil or plants.
- Ant Killer Bait Poison – This insecticide targets ant colonies found indoors. These ant poisons are sold in powder forms and require some precautions before use. You need to isolate the affected area to keep your children and pets away.
- Professional Extermination – Hiring a professional pest control service provider is your last option if an infestation persists.
If you have tried all the best possible ant control methods and nothing happens, the next smart move is to seek professional help. Contact Pest Guide and get free estimates.
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How Do Commercial Outdoor Ant Killers Work?
Below is a list of commercial outdoor ant killers and how they work.
Ant Baits
This particular method is a combination of food and insecticide. The food consists of carbohydrates and fats, which ants find appetizing.
Foraging ants consume the bait, mixed with ant poison, and carry some to the colony. The substance is then ingested by the queen and other ants, instantly killing the entire colony.
Ant Sprays
Ant sprays are most effective when used around the home’s exterior. The product works to immobilize and destroy the ant’s nervous system, leading to its demise.
Aside from killing them, the residue scent from the spray will repel future ants from coming back. So, it is ideal to apply the product to every area that ants may enter.
What to Remember When Using Outdoor Ant Killer
- Always read and exercise diligence in following the instructions on the product packaging.
- Wear protective gear during application. This includes a long-sleeved shirt, pants, socks, shoes, gloves, and mask.
- Avoid contact with eyes or clothing. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling and before eating or drinking.
Pro Tip
Best Outdoor Ant Killer Reviews
At this point, you already know the methods in eliminating ants from your property. So, it’s time for you to learn of the best ant killer products available in the market. Below are product reviews to help you in your decision-making.
Terro Outdoor Liquid Ant Baits
Terro Outdoor Liquid Ant Baits is a removal treatment used to eliminate large-scale ant infestations at the core. The bait cup is pre-filled with a liquid formula used to entice ants.
Upon consumption, the ingredients slowly poison the ants. But not before they spread the bait to their queen and other ants, eventually killing them. In a matter of 24 hours, the poison will kick in and exterminate the whole colony.
Another great thing about the product is its packaging and design. Because it’s intended for outdoor use, the roof that covers the bait protects the product during rainfall. Other than that, the colour helps it blend well into the grass.
Terro Outdoor Liquid Ant Baits Pros
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Preventive Measure - Prohibits ants from invading indoors by killing them off outdoors.
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High Success Rate - Removes common household ants from the very source.
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Versatility - The product is designed for outdoor use. However, its removal stakes make it suitable for indoor usage as well.
Terro Outdoor Liquid Ant Baits Cons
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Sugary Mixture - Sweet scents appeal to most ants. But ants that consume protein-based food might ignore it.
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Hot Weather Susceptibility - Since it’s in liquid form, the bait is prone to drying up during hot seasons.
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Packaging Limitation - Bigger ants might not fit into the small opening of the product.
One pack of Terro Outdoor Liquid Ant Baits retails at $8.95 on Amazon.
Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Bait
The Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Bait protects your home from common ant species. The main ingredient found in this product is Hydramethylon, a chemical substance concocted to control pests.
As it comes in the form of granules, foraging ants pick them up easily and carry them back to their colony. It kills the queen and the rest of the ants, thus destroying the nest. The product continues to work for up to three months.
The ant bait comes in a plastic-handled bottle. It holds the dry granules, which are golden yellow and has the texture of cornmeal. The granules have no noticeable smell, unlike liquid baits in the market.
Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Bait Pros
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The active ingredient kills ants in as little as 24 hours. Moreover, each application stays effective for up to three months.
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It removes the queen in just a week, while the rest of the colony dies with it after two weeks.
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Removes several types of ant species, including carpenter ants.
Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Bait Cons
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Although it can eliminate 25 different ant species, it may not be as effective for other ant species.
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The product is not safe to use on your garden crops due to its abrasive chemicals.
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The product is not suitable for wet conditions.
Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Bait is available on Amazon. Get an in-depth review of the product at PestGuide Org.
Ortho BugClear Insect Killer for Lawns and Landscapes
Ortho BugClear Insect Killer for Lawns and Landscapes is another outdoor ant killer product with a promising effect: it kills pests within minutes, including mosquitos, fleas, spiders, and several species of ants.
It is a straightforward product you can attach to your outdoor hose and spray to the infested lawn. On top of that, the product is non-staining.
Ortho BugClear Insect Killer for Lawns and Landscapes Pros
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It is economical for its size. A 32 oz. bottle only costs $13.42 and can treat 5,300 sq. ft. of land.
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A single product can kill 235 varieties of bugs.
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Every purchase of the product comes with a sprayer for an easy application.
Ortho BugClear Insect Killer for Lawns and Landscapes Cons
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Compared to its counterparts, the product is not odour-free.
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It is not 100% guaranteed if it works on other invasive pests.
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The ready-to-spray bottle may not fit all outdoor hoses.
Ortho BugClear Insect Killer for Lawns and Landscapes retails for $13.42 at Amazon for a 32 oz. bottle.
Combat Max Ant Killing Gel
Combat Max Ant Killing Gel contains a fast-acting insecticide called Fipronil. The gel works as a bait that attracts worker ants. The bait is then fed to the queen and its larvae, exterminating the whole colony.
The gel product is effortless to use since you can apply it straight to the cracks and crevices where ants are found. It is also guaranteed to work against Carpenter, Pharaoh, and other types of ant species.
Combat Max Ant Killing Gel Pros
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It has great efficacy against ants, killing them as fast as two to five days.
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The product comes with a syringe applicator, which allows you to deposit the gel into crevices on walls and pavements, among others.
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Keeps your toddler safe with its child-resistant packaging.
Combat Max Ant Killing Gel Cons
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You may need to apply a generous amount of the product for it to work.
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The product dries quickly, so reapplication is a must.
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It can sometimes be messy to use.
Get two packs of Combat Max Ant Killing Gel on Amazon for only $12.97. If you wish to learn more about this ant-killing gel, check out PestGuide.
HotShot Ant Killer Plus
Hotshot Ant Killer Plus contains a formulation meant to control the population of pests in your lawn, including harvester, fire, and Pharaoh ants. This unscented aerosol insecticide kills ants upon contact and leaves a residual for up to 160 days.
Since it is unscented, the insecticide leaves no chemical-based smell on your property.
HotShot Ant Killer Plus Pros
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Easy-to-use aerosol spray
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Eliminates the ants upon contact
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Available for indoor use
HotShot Ant Killer Plus Cons
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Needs to be sprayed directly on the affected area
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The product can be washed off during wet seasons
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May cause damage to outdoor plants and vegetable crops
HotShot Ant Killer Plus costs $23.89 on Amazon.
Raid Multi-Insect Killer 7
With Raid Multi-Insect Killer, you can ensure your space is ant-free. Aside from ants, it’s also effective against crickets, fleas, mosquitoes, bugs, and spiders.
Moreover, this insecticide is odour-free and easy to use. Unlike other insecticides, it is specially formulated for indoor and outdoor use.
Raid Multi-Insect Killer 7 Pros
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Effectively kills ants upon contact
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Available for indoor and outdoor use
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Comes in a citrus scent
Raid Multi-Insect Killer 7 Cons
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May not be as effective in eliminating larger insects.
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Takes effect at a slower rate in comparison to other products
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Not safe for pets or children
Raid Multi-Insect Killer 7 retails at $13 for a 15 oz. bottle on Amazon
Spectracide Terminate
Spectracide Terminate is known for targeting the source of pest infestation. It contains hexaflumuron, which is considered safer than other insecticides. The product works as bait for ants to bring back to their colony, eventually killing the queen and its nest.
It works as a standalone product in solving your pest infestation problem, so there is no need to purchase other pesticides.
Spectracide Terminate Pros
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A low-cost, effective insecticide that eliminates ants infestation
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Comes with continuous power sprayer for more precise application
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Formulated to be non-staining and odourless
Spectracide Terminate Cons
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May not be as effective for serious infestation
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Wearing protective gear is necessary during product application
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Product needs to be shaken well before usage
Terro Liquid Ant Baits
Terro Liquid Ant Baits solves ant infestation problems in your home. The ant control solution attracts ants, which bring the bait to the nest, so the entire colony can ingest it.
In a couple of hours, you may see more ants coming together, but it’s only temporary. The Borax, an active ingredient in the product, interferes with their digestive system, resulting in their death. It may take two weeks to take full effect.
Terro Liquid Ant Baits Pros
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Effective in killing sweet-eating ants.
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Bait station can be placed easily anywhere
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Snap-off design is easy to use
Terro Liquid Ant Baits Cons
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Some customers do not like the too sticky consistency of the solution
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Snap-off opening design is too small for bigger ants to enter
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May take longer time to kill the colony
Terro Liquid Ant Baits retails at $4.30 on Amazon. Learn more about this product on Pest Guide.
The Bottom Line in Outdoor Ant Control
Ants are houseguests nobody will ever want in their homes. They are an unwelcome sight for many homeowners. Although you can’t seal off your home from ants, you can try the recommended baits and traps in this article to reduce their presence. Unfortunately, it may not address the root of the problem and an infestation may worsen over time.
If your ant problems persist, PestGuide can help you find effective solutions. Contact us here for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
A combination of baking soda and vinegar kills common household ants due to their acidic nature. When sprayed on ants, it causes a powerful chemical reaction that destroys their exoskeleton. To prepare the solution, mix baking soda in vinegar. Then, spray the mixture directly inside the ant colony.
Every ant killer product is formulated with different active ingredients. Some products have high concentrations of toxins, while others contain natural compounds. Regardless, safety should always come first. Never put insecticides near your pets or children to avoid accidental exposure.
The best time to apply outdoor ant killer products is during dry seasons. This ensures the maximum efficacy of the product. There is a high chance the product might be washed off if you administer them during rainy days.
The ants may have invaded your home simply because of soil disturbances like someone dug up your yard or the neighboring properties. It could also be because of the availability of food sources, improper food storage, or overgrown vegetation in your area.
The ants will not come out because of the vinegar smell. While the solution will not instantly kill the ants, it will keep them from leaving the nest, where they will eventually starve to death. Give about an hour for this solution to take effect, then after a few hours the ants should be dead.
If you are already seeing a line of ants it is extremely likely that you are experiencing an ant infestation. An ant’s scent trail inside a home usually leads from a crack or gap in a wall or floor, and ants are often seen near baseboards along the floor. Other entry points might be unsealed holes to the exterior, including plumbing entry points.
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