4 Natural Ways to Stop Ants From Invading During Cold Snaps

It’s a common sight: The temperatures drop, and the ants find their way inside your home. "Cold weather stops insects from moving. Their metabolism slows down. They can’t eat, reproduce, or nest," explains Trent Frazer, lead entomologist at Aptive Pest Control. "But when they find warm air behind your walls, that changes everything. They can keep going; living, hiding, and reproducing—right under your nose." 

That’s why once ants get in, they’re hard to remove. "Ants can squeeze in through the tiniest cracks, and, once they’ve found food, they’ll leave scent trails so the rest of the colony can follow," says Frazer. "If you see one ant, chances are more are on the way."

Below, our professionals break down natural deterrents and preventative methods to rid your home of ants no matter the weather.

What's the Harm?

Even when ants aren’t dangerous, they’re a problem when it comes to hygiene and quality of life. “They crawl through trash, drains, and wall voids and then across counters and food,” explains Louisa Messenger, an expert in parasitology, entomology, and vector-borne diseases.

“The bigger issue is escalation—one scout finds a resource and lays a pheromone trail that quickly recruits large numbers, turning a minor annoyance into a larger infestation,” she says. 

Some species also pose additional risks. “Carpenter ants can worsen moisture-damaged wood by excavating galleries for nests, and stinging or biting species can cause painful reactions,” Messenger continues. “Repeated invasions can also signal underlying issues like leaks, rot, or easy access points that may invite other pests, too.”

Natural Deterrents to Invading Ants

While natural methods can be genuinely helpful, especially for disrupting trails and reducing indoor attraction, Messenger cautions that they work best as part of a broader plan rather than a one-time fix.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder, made from fossilized algae, that is completely non-toxic to humans and pets but deadly to many insects—including ants. “It works by damaging the exoskeletons of insects, causing them to dehydrate and die,” Frazer explains. “Just sprinkle it in areas where pests are seen or likely to be present. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is the safest option for home use.”

Essential Oils

Essential oils are another natural and fragrant way to repel pests. “Some oils, such as peppermint, tea tree, and eucalyptus, have been shown to deter insects like ants,” Frazer says.

“Mix 10 to 15 drops of essential oil with water and a small amount of dish soap (to help emulsify the oil) in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray in areas where pests are a concern,” he instructs. You can also place a few cotton balls soaked in essential oils in strategic areas, such as under the sink, in cabinets, or near windows and doors.

Vinegar Solution

A simple solution of equal parts white vinegar and water can be used to deter ants, according to Frazer. Combine in a spray bottle, shake well, and mist lightly wherever you've seen ants.

Prevention

Eliminate the food supply the ants are looking for, Frazer says. “Seal up entry points to help stop them before they spread. Take out the trash regularly, fix leaks, and keep food stored properly.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While you're obviously eager to achieve a pest-free home, resist the urge to kill the ants too quickly. Ants use pheromones to communicate when they find food, water, or shelter. “Instead of wiping up ants the second you see them, see if they are crawling by themselves or trailing as a group,” says Emma Grace Crumbley, entomologist with Mosquito Squad. “If they are trailing, you can use that information to find where they are coming in from, what they are attracted to, and ultimately where their nest is.” 

You also want to avoid using repellent cleaners near bait stations (repellents can prevent ants from taking bait, Messenger warns), or inadvertently ‘feeding’ the invasion: By missing small attractants, like sticky residues, unsealed snacks, pet bowls left out overnight, or a slow drip under a sink, Messenger says you may be unknowingly providing food.

Sealing entry points before you’ve reduced the active infestation can also be counterintuitive. If ants are nesting inside, Messenger says aggressive caulking can redirect them deeper into the structure. 

When to Call a Professional

Consider contacting a professional if ants are showing up daily for more than a week or two, despite consistent sanitation and targeted control. “If they’re emerging from wall voids, outlets, ceilings, or multiple rooms, these signs indicate that the nest may be inside,” warns Messenger. “It’s also wise to call if you suspect carpenter ants, or if you’re dealing with stinging species orif anyone in the home is highly sensitive to bites or stings.” 

Professionals can identify the exact species, locate nesting sites, address hidden moisture or structural entry points, and apply treatments strategically—often focused on the exterior and voids—to resolve the root cause rather than just the symptoms.