How Do You Kill Carpenter Ants? Top 5 Natural Fixes

Why Carpenter Ants Are a Serious Threat

Carpenter ants may look harmless, but don’t be fooled by their modest appearance. These large, black or reddish-black ants are notorious for silently wreaking havoc on wooden structures. While they don’t eat wood like termites, carpenter ants carve it out to build their nests — and that’s bad news for your home’s structural integrity. If left unchecked, these pests can cause extensive damage, costing homeowners thousands in repairs.

So, how do you kill carpenter ants without turning to harsh chemicals or calling in an exterminator right away? The good news is there are natural, safe, and highly effective methods that you can use to eliminate them for good. From pantry staples like boric acid to aromatic essential oils, you have plenty of DIY options at your fingertips. This article will walk you through five natural solutions to help you take back your home and send those ants packing.

Before we jump into each method, remember that consistency is key. Carpenter ants are persistent, but with a little patience and the right techniques, you can win this battle — naturally.

Use Diatomaceous Earth to Kill Carpenter Ants

When it comes to natural pest control, diatomaceous earth (DE) is a powerhouse. This fine white powder, made from the fossilized remains of aquatic organisms called diatoms, works wonders against carpenter ants — and most importantly, it does so without harming humans or pets when used correctly.

What It Is and How It Works

Diatomaceous earth isn’t a poison. It kills carpenter ants through mechanical action, not chemical. The powder consists of tiny, sharp particles that pierce through the ants’ exoskeletons as they crawl over it. Once compromised, their bodies lose moisture rapidly, leading to dehydration and death — often within 24 to 48 hours.

There are two main types of diatomaceous earth:

• Food-grade DE: Safe for indoor use and around pets.

• Industrial-grade DE: Used for filtration and not recommended for pest control in homes.

For carpenter ants, food-grade DE is your go-to option.

How to Apply It Safely Indoors and Outdoors

To get the most out of diatomaceous earth, proper application is crucial. Here’s how to do it right:

Step 1: Locate Carpenter Ant Trails and Entry Points
Look for the most active areas — windowsills, baseboards, kitchen counters, under sinks, and near door frames. Carpenter ants often move in straight lines and leave behind visible trails, especially at night.

Step 2: Apply a Thin Layer of DE
Lightly dust the powder along known trails, entry points, and around baseboards or wall voids. A bulb duster or a plastic squeeze bottle can help with even application. Don’t over-apply — ants need to walk across it, and thick piles can deter them.

Step 3: Target Nesting Areas Outside
If you notice carpenter ants coming from the garden, foundation, or firewood piles, sprinkle DE directly around these outdoor zones. You can even apply it into visible crevices and wall cracks.

Step 4: Reapply After Rain or Cleaning
Diatomaceous earth loses its effectiveness when wet. If you clean the area or it rains, reapply to maintain its lethal effect.

Safety Tips:

• Always wear a mask when applying DE to avoid inhaling fine dust.

• Keep it dry to preserve effectiveness.

• Store in a tightly sealed container away from moisture.

Diatomaceous earth works best as part of a comprehensive approach. Combine it with sanitation, sealing cracks, and eliminating food sources to disrupt the ants’ entire operation.

Read more How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants: A Complete DIY Guide.