Pest control

Ants

Although we do not treat ants, they are very much a pest which can be treated by yourselves.

Readily available from the usual outlets, appropriate products can be in powder, spray and ant bait station formulations.

There will be a choice of products from different manufacturers available.

Powder

Usually available in a “puffer pack” container. Follow manufacturer instructions for usage.

As kitchens are a common area for ants, do not apply them to surfaces where you prepare or store food.

Please make sure you also keep these areas clean at all times and do not ignore any spillages.

Sprays

Available in aerosol and trigger pack formulations. Very similar as for powders. Again, follow manufacturer instructions for usage.

When selecting a product make sure it is for crawling insects as opposed to those for flying insects.

When brushing or washing a hard floor, avoid areas you have already treated or you may have to re-apply it.

Ant Bait Stations

Of all the options, these do not require you to directly contact the product as they are enclosed in a hard plastic container. Ensure to manufacturer instructions on how to use and activate them. Bait stations work by attracting the worker ants to enter the container

and carry the bait from the station and back to their nests where they will feed it to the colony and will hopefully eradicate it. If the ants are seen on your worktops or other areas then these stations are a good option. Ensure to check the usage time as this can be limited, typically several months.

Summary 

Whatever product you chose, please bear in mind that it can take several weeks to eradicate an ant problem.

Midlothian Council do not offer ant treatments but we would be using similar, we do not have anything “stronger” that could eradicate the ants quicker.

You can also find some non-insecticidal treatment solutions online although their success can vary.

Apart from the ant bait stations, most of these products can be used for other crawling insects.

Again, ensure to check the packaging before you buy the product and follow manufacturer instructions.