How To Get Rid of Ants in Bedroom: 10 EASY Methods

Ants in your bedroom can be a frustrating and unsettling experience for anyone. Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to find a trail of ants marching across your bed or crawling around your bedroom floor. It’s not a pleasant sight and can make you feel uncomfortable in your own space. But, what causes ants to invade your bedroom, and how can you get rid of them?

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why ants may be attracted to your bedroom and provide you with some effective solutions to get rid of them.

We’ll cover everything from identifying the type of ants in your room to preventing future infestations.

So, if you’re dealing with ants in your bedroom, keep reading to find out how you can regain control of your space.

Ants In Bedroom: Why Do You Have Ants in Your Bedroom?

If you’re noticing ants in your bedroom, you may be wondering why they’ve decided to take up residence in your personal space. There are a few reasons why you might have ants in your bedroom, and understanding these reasons can help you address the problem more effectively.

Ants in bedroom Why Do You Have Ants in Your Bedroom (1)

Firstly, your bedroom may provide ants with easy access to shelter. Ants are constantly looking for a safe and secure place to nest, and your bedroom may offer just that.

They can enter your bedroom through small cracks and crevices in the walls, floors, and foundation, and once they’ve established a colony, it can be difficult to get rid of them.

Secondly, ants are attracted to sources of food and moisture, and your bedroom may provide both. Even small crumbs or spills can be enough to attract ants, and if you regularly eat or drink in your bedroom, you may be inadvertently providing ants with a food source.

Additionally, if your bedroom is located near a source of moisture, such as a leaky pipe or high humidity levels, ants may be drawn to the area.

And if there is a nearby ant colony, they may be exploring your home in search of new resources and opportunities for expansion. This can lead them to enter your bedroom and begin scouting for potential nest sites.

Regardless of the reason for their presence, having ants in your bedroom can be frustrating and even stressful.

Related Article – What Attracts Carpenter Ants
It's important to take steps to address the problem as soon as possible, to prevent the infestation from spreading, and to ensure that you can sleep soundly without any unwelcome guests.

Are Ants in the Bedroom Harmful?

Having ants in your bedroom may not only be annoying, but it can also pose potential health risks and damage to your property.

Here are some possible harms of having ants in your bedroom:

Contamination:

Ants can carry bacteria and other pathogens on their bodies, which they can transfer to surfaces in your bedroom. This can potentially contaminate your food, personal belongings, and even your bedding.

If you have allergies or respiratory issues, the presence of ants in your bedroom can exacerbate these conditions.

Property damage:

Certain species of ants, such as carpenter ants, can cause structural damage to your home by burrowing through wood and other materials.

If you notice ants in your bedroom, it’s important to identify the species to determine whether they pose a risk to your property.

Disruption of sleep:

The presence of ants in your bedroom can be disruptive to your sleep, causing anxiety and discomfort. You may worry about getting bitten or about the possibility of ants crawling on you while you sleep.

Increased infestation:

If left untreated, an ant infestation in your bedroom can quickly spread to other areas of your home. Ants are social insects and work together to gather resources and expand their colonies. This can lead to an increasingly large and difficult-to-control infestation.

Where to Look for the Source of Ants in the Bedroom

If you have ants in your bedroom, it’s important to locate the source of the infestation so that you can effectively eliminate it. but finding the source of the infestation can be a daunting task.

However, there are a few places you can check to locate the source of the ants. Here are some common areas to look for the source of ants in your bedroom:

Hiding Places of Ants in the Bedroom

Ants love to hide in tight spaces and crevices, so one of the first places you should look is around the bed frame, headboard, and footboard.

Inspect the baseboards, cracks in the wall, and around electrical outlets as well. Ants are small and can squeeze through the tiniest of spaces, so don’t overlook any potential hiding places.

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If you suspect that ants are on your bed, it's essential to check the bedding and mattress thoroughly. Look for any signs of ant activity, such as ant trails, dead ants, or ant feces. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to take action.

Sources of Food for Ants in the Bedroom

Ants are attracted to sources of food, so it’s important to identify any areas where there may be crumbs or spills.

Check your bed and nightstand for any food or drink spills. Also, check your closet for any items that may have fallen on the floor, such as candy or other sweets.

Ants may also be attracted to food sources in other rooms of your home, such as the kitchen or dining room, and maybe travel to your bedroom in search of food.

Finding the source of ants in your bedroom can be a challenging task, but by inspecting common hiding places and removing any potential food sources, you can eliminate the infestation. 

Remember to check your bedding and mattress if you suspect that ants are on your bed. By taking swift action, you can prevent ants from making your bedroom their home.

Types of Ants Commonly Found In the Bedroom

Ants are a common household pest, and many types of ants can be found in the bedroom. there are several types that you might come across.

Here are some of the most common types of ants that you may find in your bedroom:

ants in bedroom:Types of Ants in Bedroom

Tiny Ants in Bedroom

Tiny ants, also known as sugar ants, are one of the most common types of ants found in the bedroom. These ants are attracted to sweet foods and may be found crawling on your bed or nightstand.

Little Black Ants in Bedroom

Little black ants are another common type of ant that may be found in the bedroom. These ants are small and dark-colored and may be seen crawling on your bed or in the corners of your room.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are large ants that are attracted to damp wood. These ants may be found in the walls or ceilings of your bedroom and can cause structural damage if left untreated.

Related Article – What Attracts Carpenter Ants
ants in bedroom Types of Ants in Bedroom

Argentine Ants

Argentine ants are light brown in color and are known for their large colonies. These ants are attracted to sweet foods and may be found crawling on your bed or in your closet.

Odorous House Ants

Odorous house ants are a type of small and dark ants that give off a strong smell when they’re crushed. They have a preference for sweet foods and can often be spotted crawling on your bed or in your closet.

Pavement Ants

Pavement ants are small, dark ants that are often found in cracks in sidewalks or driveways. These ants may also be found in the corners of your bedroom or on your bed.

ants in bedroom Types of Ants in Bedroom (1)

Pharaoh Ants

Pharaoh ants are small, light-colored ants that are attracted to sweet and greasy foods. These ants are often found in kitchens but may also be found in other areas of your home, including your bedroom.

Thief Ants

Thief ants are tiny ants with a light color that are drawn to foods high in protein. You might spot them in your closet or crawling on your bed.

Crazy Ants

Crazy ants are tiny ants that are dark in color and move quickly and unpredictably. They are drawn to sugary foods and can be found crawling on your bed or inside your closet.

Acrobat Ants

Acrobat ants are small, light-colored ants that are known for their ability to raise their abdomen over their head. These ants may be found in the corners of your bedroom or on your bed.

Ghost Ants

Ghost ants are small, pale ants that are often found in kitchens and bathrooms. These ants also be found in your bedroom, particularly if there are sweet foods or spills present.

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In addition to the ants listed above, there are many other types of ants that may be found in your bedroom. However, these are the most commonly found ants in bedrooms across the United States. 

How to Get Rid of Ants in Bedroom

If you’ve found ants in your bedroom, it’s understandable that you want them gone as soon as possible. so there are several effective ways to get rid of them. here are some methods you can use to eliminate ants from your bedroom.

ants in bedroom How to Get Rid of Ants in Bedroom

Remove Food Sources

First things first, if you want to get rid of ants in your bedroom, you must remove any potential food sources. Ants are attracted to sweet and sugary substances, as well as protein-rich foods like meat and cheese.

Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your bedroom is free of any food debris or crumbs that may have been left behind. Make sure to thoroughly clean any surfaces where food may have been present, including bedside tables, dressers, and carpets.

Additionally, keep any food stored in airtight containers to prevent ants from being attracted to it. By removing the food sources, you eliminate the reason for ants to enter your bedroom in the first place, making it less likely for them to return.

Tips for Removing Food Sources in the Bedroom

Here are some additional tips to help you remove any potential food sources in your bedroom:

  • Avoid eating in bed: This will help prevent any crumbs or spills from attracting ants.
  • Keep a trash can with a lid in your bedroom and empty it regularly. This will prevent any food waste from accumulating and attracting ants.
  • If you have pets, make sure their food dishes are not left out overnight. Clean them regularly and store any remaining food in a sealed container.
  • Don’t leave dirty dishes in your bedroom. Ants can be attracted to food residue left on plates and utensils.
Related Article – How to Keep Ants Away from Sugar Jar

Eliminate Entry Points

If you want to prevent ants from getting into your bedroom, you need to eliminate their entry points. Ants are small, and they can get in through the tiniest cracks and crevices.

The first step is to figure out how they are getting in. Once you have identified the entry points, you can take steps to seal them off.

Here are some tips for sealing entry points in your bedroom:

  • Check your windows and doors for gaps and cracks, and seal them off with caulk or weatherstripping.
  • Seal any cracks or gaps in the walls, baseboards, or flooring with caulk or sealant.
  • Inspect your electrical outlets and switch plates and ensure they are tightly sealed against the wall.
  • Check your plumbing fixtures for leaks, and repair any that you find promptly.
  • Keep your bedroom clean and free of clutter, as ants can use clutter to hide and build nests.

Use Ant Baits

Ant baits are a popular and effective way to get rid of ants in the bedroom. Ant baits work by attracting ants with a sweet or protein-based substance, which they then bring back to the colony to share with other ants.

The bait contains a slow-acting poison that will eventually kill off the entire colony, including the queen. It’s important to note that ant baits can take several days to start working, so it’s important to be patient and avoid disturbing the bait during this time.

When using ant baits in the bedroom, it’s important to place them in areas where ants are frequently seen and to avoid using any insecticides or cleaning products that could interfere with the bait’s effectiveness.

In addition, it’s also important to regularly check and replace the bait as needed to ensure ongoing control of the ant infestation.

Here are some tips for using ant baits in the bedroom:

  • Place the ant baits near the ant trails or areas where ants are frequently seen.
  • Avoid placing baits near sources of food, as this can deter ants from taking the bait.
  • Do not disturb the ant baits once they are placed, as this can disrupt the ants’ feeding behavior and reduce the effectiveness of the bait.
  • It may take several days or even weeks for the bait to completely eliminate the ant colony, so be patient and continue to monitor the situation.
  • Make sure to dispose of any empty bait containers or unused bait properly, as they can be harmful if ingested by pets or children.

Use Ant Sprays

After you have removed food sources and sealed entry points, using ant sprays can be an effective way to eliminate any remaining ants in your bedroom.

Ant sprays contain chemicals that are toxic to ants and can kill them on contact. When using ant sprays in the bedroom, it’s important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions.

Always wear protective clothing and make sure the room is well-ventilated. It’s also a good idea to keep pets and children out of the room until the spray has dried. When spraying, be sure to target areas where ants are known to travel or congregate, such as along baseboards, window sills, and doorways.

Here are some tips for using ant sprays in the bedroom:

  • Choose high-quality ant sprays: When selecting ant sprays, opt for products that are specifically formulated for indoor use and are effective against the types of ants you are dealing with.
  • Read the instructions carefully: Make sure to carefully read and follow the instructions on the product label, including any safety precautions or recommended usage rates.
  • Identify the areas to be treated: Before applying the spray, identify the areas where ants are entering or nesting in your bedroom, such as cracks in the walls or floor, baseboards, and window sills.
  • Prepare the area: Cover any surfaces or objects in the vicinity of the treatment area that may be damaged by the spray, and remove any food or personal items from the area.
  • Apply the spray: Hold the spray can at a safe distance from the surface and apply a light, even coating of the product to the affected areas. Be sure to avoid over-spraying, which can cause damage or create a hazardous environment.
  • Ventilate the room: After applying the spray, allow the treated area to dry completely and ventilate the room by opening windows or using a fan to help dissipate any fumes or odors.
  • Reapply as necessary: If the ant infestation persists, reapply the spray as directed on the product label, taking care to follow all safety precautions and usage rates.

If you've tried all those above methods and none of them work or if you want to get rid of ants in your bedroom quickly, then consider hiring a pest control service. 

While it may seem like an extreme measure, professional pest control services have the knowledge, tools, and experience to eliminate the ant infestation safely and effectively.
Related Article – What Chemicals Do Exterminators Use for Ants?

How to Get Rid of Specific Ants in Bedroom

While the methods discussed earlier in this guide can help get rid of ants in general, there are specific types of ants that require a different approach.

So here we will focus on how to get rid of sugar ants, red ants (also known as fire ants), and black ants in the bedroom. We will also suggest some products that may be helpful in eliminating these specific types of ants.

Sugar Ants: How to Get Rid of Sugar Ants in Bedroom

While there are many different ant baits on the market that can be effective against sugar ants, one product that has received positive reviews is the Syngenta – Optigard Ant Bait Gel Box.

The Syngenta – Optigard Ant Bait Gel Box is highly effective against sugar and carpenter ants, and ghost ants. The gel bait is designed to attract ants, which will then feed on the bait and return to their nest.

As the ants share the bait with the queen and the young, the poison in the bait will spread throughout the colony, ultimately leading to the elimination of the entire ant population.

Its effectiveness and ease of use make it a popular choice among homeowners and pest control professionals alike. If you’re dealing with a sugar ant infestation in your bedroom, this ant bait gel box may be the solution you’re looking for.

Black Ants: How to Get Rid of Black Ants in Bedroom

If you’re dealing with black ants in your bedroom, TERRO T300B Liquid Ant Killer may be an effective solution to consider. This product comes with 12 bait stations that are designed to kill common household ants, including black ants and other species such as acrobat ants, crazy ants, and ghost ants.

To use TERRO T300B, simply place the bait stations near areas where you’ve seen ant activity, such as along baseboards, in corners, or on counters. The ants will be attracted to the bait and will carry it back to their nest, where it will eliminate the entire ant population over time.

One of the benefits of TERRO T300B is that it can be used throughout your home, making it a versatile solution for ant infestations. The bait stations are also easy to use and can be placed discreetly in areas where ants are likely to travel.

Fire Ants: How to Get Rid of Red Ants in Bedroom

Sometimes you may even find fire ants in your bedroom. Fire ants are known for their painful stings and can be dangerous for those with allergies, so it’s important to take immediate action to eliminate them.

One effective solution for getting rid of fire ants in the bedroom is to use a targeted insecticide product, such as Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer. This product is designed to kill fire ants at the source by targeting the queen and destroying the entire mound.

To use Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer, simply apply the product directly to the mound without the need for watering in. The active insecticide will work its way through the colony, targeting the queen and eliminating the entire population.

While Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer is a powerful and effective solution for getting rid of fire ants, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and use the product safely and responsibly. Keep the product out of reach of children and pets and avoid using it near food or water sources.

Natural Home Remedies for Ants in the Bedroom

If you prefer to avoid using chemical insecticides or products to get rid of ants in your bedroom, there are several home remedies you can try.

ants in bedroom: Home Remedies for Ants in Bedroom

White vinegar

Ants hate the smell of vinegar, so using it as a cleaning solution in your bedroom can help deter them. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to wipe down surfaces and mop the floor.

Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is a natural ant repellent that can be used to keep them out of your bedroom. Mix 10-15 drops of peppermint oil with 1 cup of water and spray the solution around windows, doors, and other entry points.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has a strong scent that ants dislike, making it an effective natural repellent. Sprinkle the cinnamon powder in areas where you’ve seen ants, or create a cinnamon barrier around the perimeter of your bedroom.

ants in bedroom: Home Remedies for Ants in Bedroom

Lemon juice and mint leaves

Another effective natural remedy for getting rid of ants in the bedroom is a mixture of lemon juice and mint leaves. Simply mix these two ingredients together and spray the solution around areas where ants have been seen. The strong scent of lemon and mint will help repel ants and keep them from returning.

Diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from fossilized algae that can be used to kill ants. Sprinkle it in areas where ants are present or around entry points, and the powder will penetrate their exoskeleton, causing them to dehydrate and die.

Borax

Borax is a natural mineral that can be used to make ant bait. Mix equal parts of borax and sugar, and place small amounts of the mixture in areas where ants are present. The ants will be attracted to the sugar and take the bait back to their colony, where the borax will kill them.

While these natural remedies can be effective, they may take longer to work than chemical solutions. 

It's also important to note that some remedies, such as borax and diatomaceous earth, can be harmful if ingested by pets or children, so be sure to use them with caution.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with ants in the bedroom can be a frustrating and annoying experience. However, there are several effective methods to get rid of these pesky insects. By following the tips outlined in this article, including removing food sources, sealing entry points, using ant baits and sprays, and even trying natural remedies like vinegar, lemon juice, and mint leaves, you can successfully eliminate ants in your bedroom.

Remember, it’s important to take action as soon as you notice the problem to prevent it from getting worse. Don’t let ants on your bed or in your bedroom disrupt your sleep and peace of mind. With a little effort and persistence, you can enjoy a pest-free bedroom.

If you’ve tried all the above methods and still can’t get rid of ants in your bedroom, consider hiring a pest control service. Make sure to choose a company that specializes in ants and has a good reputation. And with that, we hope that you’ve found this guide helpful and informative in your battle against ants in bedrooms.

FAQs

Why do I have ants in my bedroom?

Ants may enter your bedroom in search of food, water, or shelter. They may also be attracted by crumbs, spills, or other food sources.

Why do I have little black ants in my bedroom?

Little black ants are attracted to sugary substances and may enter your bedroom in search of food. They can also nest inside wall voids or under carpets.

Why are there ants in my room if there is no food?

Ants can still enter your room in search of water or shelter even if there is no visible food source. They can also be attracted by scents from food residues that are not visible.

Is it ants in my bed biting me?

It is unlikely that ants will bite you while you are in bed, but it is possible. If you suspect that you have been bitten by ants, you should seek medical attention and take measures to eliminate the ants from your bedroom.

Does a dirty room attract ants?

A dirty room may attract ants if there are crumbs, spills, or other food sources that ants can feed on. However, ants may also enter a clean room in search of water or shelter.

Can ants damage my bedroom furniture?

While ants do not typically damage furniture, carpenter ants can burrow into wood and cause structural damage if left untreated. It is important to identify the type of ant infestation and take appropriate measures to eliminate it.

Resources – (for further reading)

University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture – Managing Structure-Invading Ants

University of Kentucky – Ant Control for Householders – UK Entomology

UC ANR – Ants Management Guidelines

I'm Ernest M Noah, the founder of BugsTips.com. I have years of experience as an exterminator in Texas and Idaho, and I'm passionate about educating people on how to deal with pest problems effectively and safely.