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Should I Spray Ants Myself?

Written by PestMan Editorial TeamTechnical review pendingPublished Updated

Quick answer

Spraying ants yourself usually only kills the workers you can see, while the colony and queens survive and send out more. With some species, spraying can split the colony into several new nests. Baits that workers carry back to the nest, combined with hygiene and sealing, are generally more effective. Always follow the product label.

Why this happens

The ants on your bench are a small fraction of the colony. Contact sprays kill them but do not reach the queen or brood.

Species with multiple queens, such as coastal brown ants, may respond to stress by budding into new colonies, spreading the problem.

Spray residues also repel ants from baits, reducing their effectiveness.

What you can do

  • Identify the ant if possible; it helps choose the right bait type (sugar, protein or oil based).
  • Place baits along trails and leave them undisturbed for several days.
  • Expect to see more ants at first as they feed on the bait.
  • Clean up the trail once activity drops.

What not to do

  • Do not spray insecticide near baits.
  • Do not use products on food-contact surfaces unless the label allows it.
  • Do not treat suspected fire ants yourself; report them.
Using pest products safely

If you use an insecticide or bait, read the label first and follow it exactly, including directions for children, pets and food areas. Australian law requires products to be used only as the label directs.

When professional help may be needed

If baiting fails after two to three weeks, ants are nesting in the structure, or you have many trails around the property, professional help is reasonable.

Ants

Social insects that live in colonies and follow scent trails to food and water. Most ant problems in homes are nuisance foraging trails from colonies outside the house.

Species mentioned

Coastal Brown Ant

Pheidole megacephala

An introduced, light-brown ant that forms huge multi-queen colonies and leaves piles of loose soil between pavers and along slab edges. One of the most common nuisance ants in Queensland.

Black House Ant

Ochetellus glaber

A small, shiny black native ant that forms long trails into kitchens and bathrooms searching for sweet food and water.

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Sources & further reading

PestMan provides general information only and does not replace licensed pest-management, medical, veterinary or structural advice. Always read and follow product labels. Read our disclaimer.