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The 9 Best Ant Killers The Spruce Has Tested
Your best defense against these pests
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Sage McHugh is a Florida-based writer for The Spruce, specializing in appliances, cleaning, and organization. She has researched and covered dozens of home products, including several tested ones like mosquito traps and hummingbird feeders.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 06/02/26
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Credit: The Spruce
Don't let ants get comfortable in and around your home—kill the colonies fast, and the right way, with our best-tested ant killers. We tested over a dozen in our homes while dealing with ant infestations and found the effective solutions in a variety of formats, from gels to powders to liquid baits.
It's important to understand ant colonies before trying to exterminate them. No matter which ant killer you choose, following the application instructions is key to getting the best results. We learned that overlooking certain guidance, like applying an outdoor treatment in damp conditions, can make it far less effective.
Top Picks
Best Overall:
Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Killer Bait at Amazon$20
Best Indoor:
Terro Liquid Ant Baits at Amazon$13
Best for Carpenter Ants:
BioAdvanced Ant and Termite Killer at Amazon$22
Best Gel:
Syngenta 53204 Advion Ant Gel at Amazon$38
Best Natural:
Mighty Mint Insect & Pest Control at Amazon$38
Best Spray:
Raid Ant & Roach Killer Aerosol Spray at Amazon$14
Best for Outdoors:
First Saturday Lime Insect Repellent at Amazon$42
Best for the Garden:
Garden Safe Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer at Amazon$14
Best for Fire Ants:
SALE
Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer at Amazon $15 $12
Expert Tip
“The best natural solution when fighting ants is prevention,” says Frank Meek, a board-certified entomologist and manager for Orkin. “Seal up your home, practice cleanliness measures, and ensure landscaping is properly maintained to reduce access and the likelihood ants can thrive near your home.”
Best Overall
Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Killer Bait
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What We Like
Works on 25 ant species
Kills entire colony
Lasts up to three months
No noticeable odor
What We Don't Like
Unsafe around pets
Needs dry conditions
When it comes to highly effective, long-lasting outdoor ant control, Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Killer Bait is our top pick. It creates a barrier outside the home so ants don't find their way into your house. A single application can eliminate carpenter ants, fire ants, and over 20 other ant species for up to three months. We reapplied once after three months, and the results have been so great that we don't feel like we need to again.
During our testing, ants began carrying the bait within hours, a sure sign that it was working as intended. The granules have a food-like odor that attracts foraging ants, who carry them back to the colony—spreading the poison and eventually killing the entire nest.
The shake-style bottle allows for easy, mess-free application. We were able to disperse the granules evenly outside of our home, and liked that their visibility made it easy to monitor coverage. Better yet, there’s no strong odor, which is a big plus for anyone sensitive to chemical smells.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-amdro-ant-block-home-perimeter-ant-killer-bait-kevin-schmitz-03-189c6407dc7046eb9cf91781bb45b906.jpeg) We like that the Amdro Ant Perimeter Killer Bait is large enough to monitor application coverage.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-amdro-ant-block-home-perimeter-ant-killer-bait-kevin-schmitz-04-e9e6d9394f2c474cbd2e98569ad9348d.jpeg) The granules are packaged in a convenient shake bottle that allows for easy dispersion.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-amdro-ant-block-home-perimeter-ant-killer-bait-kevin-schmitz-05-85a6b6e772ce41b383d5cb2303f8c200.jpeg) After applying the granules, we observed that the ants quickly started carrying the bait.Credit: The Spruce
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We also love that you receive a generous amount of product in one container, with enough left over for an additional treatment. While its potency and coverage reduce the need for frequent reapplication, you'll want to use it on dry ground with no rain expected for 24 hours.
You can use this product on lawns, landscaped areas, and around outdoor structures—but there are a few limitations to keep in mind. Amdro should not be used in vegetable gardens or on any edible plants, and pets should be kept away during the initial application.
Application Method: Granules | Intended Use: Outdoor | Pest Type: Carpenter 25 species of ants
Best Indoor
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$13\ $12 at Amazon $6 at Target $12 at Walmart
What We Like
Kills entire colony
Targets common household ants
Versatile placement
What We Don't Like
Liquid spills easily
Results take up to 4 weeks
If you’re battling an indoor ant problem, Terro Ant Killer Bait Stations stand out as one of the most effective and convenient solutions available. Based on our hands-on testing, they are incredibly easy to use—just tear one end off the package and place them wherever you see any activity. We observed a noticeable drop in ant activity within 24 hours, and ants were completely gone in three days. That said, keep in mind that complete colony elimination could take up to two to four weeks.
What makes these stations so effective is their attract-and-kill strategy—the same method behind the success of our best overall pick. The bait lures in worker ants, who then carry it back to the nest, eliminating the problem at the source.
They also provide ongoing protection even after the initial infestation is gone. They can last from several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of your infestation. Their compact size allows for versatile placement along baseboards, in corners, and on counters.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-terro-ant-killer-bait-stations-matt-gilbertson-07-63558d476ee747dd9eceb1d7d0fd0d2b.jpeg) The Terro T300B Liquid Ant Bait Station has its bait enclosed in plastic packaging.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-terro-ant-killer-bait-stations-matt-gilbertson-01-d94be749c5254f81b631a282bcd5896e.jpeg) Before setting out, you must snap off the ends so ants can reach the bait.Credit: The Spruce
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The design makes it easy for ants to access the liquid. However, this sometimes causes the liquid bait to leave a sticky residue underneath the station as ants come and go. If you have animals in the house, you should place the stations in a secure location or use a protective barrier.
Overall, these stations are a simple and affordable way to wipe out ants indoors. They performed consistently well during our real-world testing, often solving infestations faster than more expensive alternatives.
Application Method: Liquid | Intended Use: Indoor | Pest Type: Ants
Best for Carpenter Ants
BioAdvanced Ant and Termite Killer
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$22 at Amazon $27 at Home Depot $24 at Lowes
What We Like
Creates a strong barrier
Controls 60+ pests
Protects up to 3 months
Large coverage
What We Don't Like
Needs pump sprayer
Must reapply in rainy climates
Carpenter ants can be notoriously difficult to control, but our tester found that BioAdvanced Ant and Termite Killer created a highly effective barrier that stopped them from entering their home. Once applied around the perimeter of our home, we noticed a significant reduction in indoor ants, particularly sugar ants that had been swarming in large numbers from a window box in the kitchen. After six months, no ants have returned.
The product comes with clear instructions and an easy-to-use measuring cap, which makes it simple to mix and prepare the solution. It’s worth noting that a pump sprayer is required, so some setup and extra equipment are involved, but the results were worth the effort. One bottle of this concentrated solution covers a large area and remains effective for up to three months, which is a definite bonus. Our tester resprays their home every month or so to keep things protected.
In addition to ants, our tester watched earwigs turn around to avoid the poison. According to the manufacturer, BioAdvanced can kill over 60 types of home-invading pests, including fleas, termites, cockroaches, and yellow jackets. The formula dries quickly, and we didn’t experience any skin irritation when applying it with proper precautions.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-bioadvanced-ant-and-termite-killer-shannon-hansen-day-03-570740dec781494cbba3edd7a5f21cd8.jpeg) The lid on the BioAdvanced Ant Killer Plus doubles as a measuring cup to prepare the solution.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-bioadvanced-ant-and-termite-killer-shannon-hansen-day-04-af9c53a59ef64700a6d14f23beb39c9b.jpeg) The lid has a spout that allows you to easily pour the solution into a garden sprayer.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-bioadvanced-ant-and-termite-killer-shannon-hansen-day-06-700c987f444f4519a5d10fc33f618b30.jpeg) We found that using a garden sprayer was best to disperse the solution evenly.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-bioadvanced-ant-and-termite-killer-shannon-hansen-day-05-529312bf9e144c35a202ab32557eec10.jpeg) We sprayed our windowsill with the solution, since it's a common spot ants enter through.Credit: The Spruce
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Keep in mind that BioAdvanced isn’t a contact killer and won't eliminate existing colonies. Its strength lies in prevention. While it won’t destroy a nest, it creates a strong enough barrier to prevent carpenter ants from getting inside.
The chemical smell is noticeable during application, but fades fairly quickly. In rainy climates, you may need to reapply it more frequently—about once a month—to ensure maximum effectiveness. This treatment proved to be the most reliable option for keeping carpenter ants out of our tester's house.
Application Method: Liquid | Intended Use: Outdoor | Pest Type: Carpenter ants and over 60 other pests
Expert Tip
Meek offers the following guidance to help identify carpenter ants: “Large ants up to 13 mm long (½ inch) that excavate damaged wood to build nests, potentially causing structural damage. They are often black or red and black in color.”
Best Gel
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What We Like
Kills entire colony
Easy, precise application
Odorless and stain-free
What We Don't Like
Awkward applicator
Unsafe around children/pets
This gel is one of the most effective and comprehensive options on this list—it doesn’t just deter ants, it wipes out the entire colony (and works on many species). Within 24 hours of applying it along a raised garden bed, our tester noticed ants swarming the bait. Over the next several days, there was a sharp drop in ant activity, and by the end of the second week, the infestation was eliminated.
After six months of use, we can confidently say this indoor/outdoor product delivers consistent results. We haven't seen any ant hills develop in any of our problem areas, which feels reassuring. The gel is precise and mess-free, making it easy to squeeze into cracks, crevices, and other tight spots where ants tend to travel, working better than other products our tester has tried in the past.
Worker ants carry it back to the nest, eventually killing the queen and the entire nest. It takes some time to see full results, but that’s what makes this bait so effective.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-syngenta-53204-advion-ant-gel-tiffany-ivanovich-04-2270fb6f966a45c1adbd76c1a82ec3cc.jpeg) Unlike sprays on our list, the Syngenta 53204 Advion Ant Gel can wipe entire colonies.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-syngenta-53204-advion-ant-gel-tiffany-ivanovich-08-cd9d835b858e4569841d95022593ba1e.jpeg) The thin applicator allows you to get into corners and crevices you wouldn't be able to reach.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-syngenta-53204-advion-ant-gel-tiffany-ivanovich-10-0069f8ec02ca47938070589090616e7b.jpeg) After applying the gel bait, we noticed ants swarming to the spot of application.Credit: The Spruce
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While the gel itself works great, the applicator could use some improvement. The plunger felt a bit loose and awkward, making careful application tricky. Like most baits, you’ll want to keep it out of reach of children and pets because it can be harmful if ingested.
Although this gel is priced higher than many other options, we think its performance more than justifies the cost. The only other downside is that the product isn't as effective if rain washes it away or sun dries it up, which is why we've had to reapply more frequently as the hotter months come on. Still, a single tube should be enough to last an entire season.
Application Method: Gel | Intended Use: Indoor/outdoor | Pest Type: Ants
Best Natural
Mighty Mint Insect & Pest Control
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$38 at Amazon $36\ $31 at Walmart $38 at Mightymintproducts.com
What We Like
Reduces ants
Easy application with sprayer
Pleasant peppermint scent
Safe around children and pets
What We Don't Like
- Not effective for large infestations
If you’re looking for a natural solution for keeping ants out of your home, Mighty Mint Insect & Pest Control is a solid choice. Our tester applied Mighty Mint Insect & Pest Control in and around their house and was impressed with how well it handled the ant problem. The ants come marching in every spring and this spray quickly got rid of them. After six months, the ants haven't returned.
We love that it comes with an attached sprayer with both a stream and mist setting, making it simple to target baseboards, windowsills, doorways, and other common entry points. Indoors, it is very effective at deterring ants and preventing new ones from entering. We also appreciated the mess-free application: The surfaces she sprayed didn’t feel sticky or have any residue once they dried.
This formula is similar to our best spray in that it also uses a plant-based formula. It’s infused with peppermint oil, offering a pleasant scent that isn’t overwhelming and fades quickly after application. Free from synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals, it’s safe to use around children and pets, which gave her added peace of mind during testing.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-mighty-mint-insect-pest-control-peppermint-oil-natural-spray-cathy-fallone-10-fa3b55959626401991f9df495d346b8e.jpeg) Mighty Mint Insect & Pest Control uses plant-based ingredients and has a peppermint smell.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-mighty-mint-insect-pest-control-peppermint-oil-natural-spray-cathy-fallone-20-381aaaebf37741268ab86144b5e7d3eb.jpeg) It has an easy-to-use sprayer, clear instructions, and a simple application process.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-mighty-mint-insect-pest-control-peppermint-oil-natural-spray-cathy-fallone-17-d2efd1502abf4b6fa28bea11b775061b.jpeg) The spray comes in a 1-gallon jug, so you can treat large areas with heavy ant activity.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-mighty-mint-insect-pest-control-cathie-france-09-ecd7ddd0dcba4ca1aa9f9b78b784bec2.jpeg) The attached sprayer has both a stream and mist setting for easy application.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-mighty-mint-insect-pest-control-cathie-france-04-f8cfa2ab46674e01806bb51cb2050b6f.jpeg) We used the Mighty Mint Insect & Pest Control to treat an ant hill in our yard.Credit: The Spruce
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That said, it’s important to note that Mighty Mint works as a deterrent, not a killer. Unlike our best overall, it didn't visibly kill ants in our testing, especially outdoors, and it wasn’t effective on active colonies or larger infestations. While it works well for minor indoor problems and prevention, you’ll likely need to pair it with another solution if you’re dealing with a major outdoor infestation.
The only other downside we noted is the price—it’s a bit steep for a product that mainly functions as a repellent. Still, if you’re seeking a safe, all-natural, and easy-to-use ant deterrent that smells good and works well for light protection, Mighty Mint is our top pick.
Application Method: Spray | Intended Use: Indoor/outdoor| Pest Type: Ants
Best Spray
Raid Ant & Roach Killer Aerosol Spray
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What We Like
Kills on contact
Works on 20+ household pests
Precise application
Long-lasting protection
What We Don't Like
Strong smell
Oily residue
Raid has been a trusted brand in the pest control industry for decades, and its ant and roach aerosol spray is no exception. During our hands-on testing, it delivered fast, reliable results with minimal effort. It kills on contact and also provides long-lasting residual action to help deter future ant intrusions.
One of the things we like most, with over six months of testing, is how easy this aerosol ant spray is to point and shoot ants directly at their entry points and trails (in our case, the doorway and the windowsill). It does leave behind an oily residue that can be slippery. While the lingering wetness offers excellent residual action, it’s not ideal for high-traffic or pet-accessible areas.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-raid-ant-roach-killer-aerosol-spray-maria-irigoyen-10-95377c551f50447fbff198a03fb134b7.jpeg) The Raid Ant & Roach Killer Spray is great to target ants making their way through the windowsill.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-raid-ant-roach-killer-aerosol-spray-maria-irigoyen-06-744678a479094092b98aa5704b08b7e9.jpeg) Unlike other sprays on our list, this one does leave an oily residue on the applied surface.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-raid-ant-roach-killer-aerosol-spray-maria-irigoyen-12-6d599eaae17c4f0eabbbbf677565a1f6.jpeg) We discovered that the spray effectively eliminated any ants it was directly applied to.Credit: The Spruce
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Raid Ant and Roach Spray is best used as a spot treatment, effectively killing visible ants on contact. However, it does not eliminate entire colonies. For comprehensive protection, it should be paired with a bait or colony-targeting solution like our best indoor pick.
This formula contains essential oils such as lemongrass oil and geraniol, and it’s free of synthetic chemicals, making it safe for use around children and pets when applied as directed. We didn’t experience any irritation during application—no burning eyes, skin reactions, or harsh fumes. Although the lemongrass scent is strong, it's noticeably less chemical-smelling than many other sprays on the market.
This spray is also effective against roaches and over 20 household pests, making it a versatile addition to your pest control arsenal.
Application Method: Spray | Intended Use: Indoor | Pest Type: Ants, roaches, and over 20 other household pests
Best for Outdoors
First Saturday Lime Insect Repellent
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$42 at Amazon $28 at Firstsaturdaylime.com
What We Like
Reduces ants and ticks
Acts as a long-lasting barrier
Also a deodorizer
What We Don't Like
Tricky application
No applicator included
First Saturday Lime Insect Repellent is our top choice for an ant-killing powder thanks to its effectiveness, ease of use, and safety, making it ideal for households with kids, pets, or gardens. Our tester uses this product in the exterior perimeter walls and stairs, areas that are highly prone to ant invasions.
While she didn’t see dead ants piling up immediately, she noted a steady decrease in ant activity until it stopped completely. Even better, she didn’t notice any new ants in the treated areas one to two weeks after application, attesting to its residual effectiveness. They haven't returned six months later, either.
It’s both nontoxic and odorless, so you don’t have to worry about harsh fumes or lingering chemical smells around your home or yard.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-first-saturday-lime-matt-gilbertson-08-9183b133726c4a0e8dc7d64c784e317d.jpeg) First Saturday Lime Insect Repellent can be used with a lawn spreader for large areas.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-first-saturday-lime-matt-gilbertson-05-3bfba0f36c914030a7d934ad48d514ee.jpeg) The powder can also be used to control algae in ponds and deodorize barns and coops.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-first-saturday-lime-insect-repellent-laura-hard-09-4d6a9bc6e8b34e1c9a21cf136e16e167.jpeg) Since the powder is very light, we don't recommend applying it on a windy day.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-first-saturday-lime-insect-repellent-laura-hard-06-cbb82aa113074d4cbb22174fc102960f.jpeg) The powder can be applied in tight crevices that would normally be hard to reach.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-first-saturday-lime-matt-gilbertson-09-e6b12d0517c7498bbb10a37a17c10ee6.jpeg) The repellent is powdered lime, so it’s safe to use around pets, children, and plants.Credit: The Spruce
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There are a few drawbacks worth noting. This powder doesn’t come with a measuring scoop or applicator, which can make application tricky, especially on windy days. If you’re applying it on your lawn, the best method is to use a lawn spreader on the lowest setting for even coverage.
Our tester applies this product once a month around garbage cans and her AC unit, and while it kills fire ants on the surface, they seem to build new mounds in other places., whereas our best for fire ants eliminates the nests.
The 20-pound bag offers excellent value and versatility. While this organic pest barrier works especially well as a perimeter defense, it can also be used to deodorize barns and chicken coops, as well as remove algae from ponds and birdbaths. In addition to ants, it also kills other common pests such as fleas, ticks, mites, and cockroaches.
Application Method: Powder | Intended Use: Outdoor | Pest Type: Ants, mites, ticks, cockroaches, fleas, etc
Best for the Garden
Garden Safe Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-garden-safe-diatomaceous-earth-crawling-insect-killer-roxanne-allen-package-d783895913514650930be11ee1a27cbd.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/Garden-Safe-Crawling-Containing-Diatomaceous/dp/B004Q0DM82?tag=thespruce-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=4142823)Credit: The Spruce
$14 at Amazon $14 at Home Depot $14 at Lowes
What We Like
Works within 24 hours
Natural, non-toxic formula
Safe for pets and children
Affordable
What We Don't Like
Not suitable for carpenter ants
Messy application
Should not be applied to hard surfaces
Organic gardeners, rejoice! If you are looking for a natural way to get rid of ants, diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic ant killer and deterrent. This is an affordable weapon against many types of crawling insects that plague gardeners, including earwigs, aphids, and slugs.
Our tester Roxanne used Garden Safe on the dirt around her patio and pool deck, creating a barrier and killing ants that crossed its path.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-garden-safe-diatomaceous-earth-crawling-insect-killer-roxanne-allen-application-7d1537e85d3d4533a0d165c21088c599.jpeg) Garden Safe Diatomaceous Earth is perfect for use near plants and flowers.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-garden-safe-diatomaceous-earth-crawling-insect-killer-roxanne-allen-product-b9b1d1e1c1e24ef1be89949d34d3c556.jpeg) This is a fine powder that you can spread or scatter.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-garden-safe-diatomaceous-earth-crawling-insect-killer-roxanne-allen-after-application-8da0ca5c9ee54597ac8271b1ddc22af0.jpeg) A scatter of this will kill existing ants and prevent new ones.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-garden-safe-diatomaceous-earth-crawling-insect-killer-roxanne-allen-application-2-6b4963ed3479458089ff3504d2b054ab.jpeg) This can be used anywhere, from small cracks to large gardens.Credit: The Spruce
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-garden-safe-diatomaceous-earth-crawling-insect-killer-roxanne-allen-after-application-2-29e88dcaf1224ed69c1901aecb9565a4.jpeg) Apply this when there isn't rain in the forecast so you don't lose it.Credit: The Spruce
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This fine dust works by drying out the crawling insect's exoskeleton, and it works fast. The swarm of ants trying to get into her house and take over her outdoor space was virtually gone within 24 hours. Throughout the testing period, in spite of rain, the diatomaceous earth continued to take care of the stragglers.
While the application can be messy and the white powder doesn’t look great, it effectively solves the problem. A little goes a long way, and it’s best applied with a dust applicator or squeeze bottle that can disperse the dust exactly where you need it.
Application Method: Dust | Intended Use: Outdoor | Pest Type: Ants, fleas, beetles, mealybugs, aphids, earwigs, slugs, leafhoppers
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Best for Fire Ants
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/ortho-orthene-fire-ant-killer1-kills-queen-destroys-up-to-162-mounds-12-oz-dry-powder-ant-poison-works-in-60-minutes-06df2d4e850543d9a4561abb7a11bfd4.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Ortho-12-Ounce-Orthene-Fire-Killer/dp/B000A0UCRG?tag=thespruce-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=4142823)Credit: Amazon
$15\ $12 at Amazon $12 at Home Depot $12 at Target
What We Like
Kills queen to destroy colony
Begins working in 60 minutes
Treats up to 162 mounds
Easy to apply
What We Don't Like
Strong chemical odor
Doesn't prevent new mounds
Fire ants are one of the most intrusive species, and their bites can be quite painful. For fast and effective fire ant control, consider the Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer. This powerful outdoor formula doesn’t just scatter the ants—it kills the queen, destroys the mound, and wipes out the colony at its source. One 12-ounce container can treat up to 162 mounds, offering excellent value and performance.
Unlike slow baits that may take weeks to deliver full results, this fire ant killer starts working in just 60 minutes. It’s designed for outdoor use on lawns and around ornamental plants, including flowers, trees, and shrubs, making it a versatile option for most yards.
Application is easy—all you have to do is sprinkle the powder directly over the mound, following the label instructions. For long-term fire ant control, the manufacturer recommends pairing it with Ortho Fire Ant Killer Broadcast Granules (sold separately) to help prevent new mounds from forming for up to 6 months.
While it's highly effective, there are a few things to keep in mind. The product has a strong chemical odor that can persist for several days. As with any chemical insecticide, children and pets should be kept away from the treated area until the product has settled.
Application Method: Powder | Intended Use: Outdoor | Pest Type: Fire ants and some other insects
Final Verdict
Our best overall choice for eliminating ants outdoors is the Amdro Ant Block Home Perimeter Ant Killer Bait. A single application can eliminate over 20 different species of ants and protect for up to three months. If you’re facing an indoor ant problem, we recommend Terro Ant Killer Bait Stations—they’re easy to set up and target all common household ants. Both of these products are designed to kill the colony, eliminating the problem at the source, making them superior choices for comprehensive, long-term ant control.
How We Tested Ant Killers
To evaluate each ant killer, we focused on ease of use, effectiveness, longevity, and overall value. We then determined whether it delivered noticeable results, how long those results lasted, and whether the performance was worthy of the price.
Ease of Use: We assessed how simple the product was to apply or set up, then placed the ant killer in an area commonly trafficked by ants or where there was previously an ant issue.
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Credit: The Spruce
Effectiveness: To get a clear picture of how well each product worked over time, we checked in at several intervals—24 hours, 3 days, 7 days, and 14 days—noting any decrease in ant activity, reappearance of ants, or need for reapplication. This helped us gauge not only how quickly a product started working but also how long the effects lasted.
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Credit: The Spruce
Longevity: Having checkpoints also allowed us to see whether a product was simply killing the ants or effectively eliminating the colony at its source. We noted how often we had to apply/use the ant killer and if there was enough product included to effectively cover the intended area. After testing for over six months, we then checked in on whether there was a recurrence of ants within 30 and 90 days.
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Credit: The Spruce
Overall Value: We considered the price and overall value of each ant killer, whether we feel it'll last us multiple seasons, and if it delivered effective enough results to justify the price (or surprised us with great results at a low price).
Which Type of Ant Killer Is Right for Your Situation?
Ant killer exists in many formats. In our testing, sprays proved ideal for targeting and killing insects quickly and effectively. Bait stations are the most convenient, and granular or powder ant killers are best for outdoor use. They can be applied around the perimeter of your home, providing long-lasting protection against infestation.
We break this down further below:
- Bait ant killers typically utilize a food-based substance mixed with a slow-acting poison. Ants are lured by the bait, which they consume and carry back to the colony. It is then shared with other ants—including the queen—eventually eliminating the source of the infestation. One thing to keep in mind is that, as Meek explains, "[They] can take longer than other control methods and need to be applied in the right way (and be specific to the species of ant)."
- Contact sprays kill ants instantly when sprayed directly on them. They work by attacking the nervous system through fast-acting chemicals. Our best spray, Raid Ant and Roach Killer Aerosol Spray, is a plant-based alternative to conventional chemical sprays, making it safer to use around children and pets. While contact sprays are ideal for spot treatments, they may not eliminate the root of the problem. As Meek points out, "it only works on the sprayed ants; it will not eliminate the colony, leading to recurring infestations."
- Powders are particularly effective when used in cracks, crevices, and wall voids where ants travel. Ants walk through them and carry the particles back to the nest, sharing them with the entire colony. Powders are powerful and long-lasting, but they can be messy and should be applied carefully. Our best for outdoors pick is an odorless and nontoxic formula that’s also safe to use around children and pets.
- Natural or homemade solutions contain ingredients such as vinegar, soap, or essential oils and typically work by masking the ants’ scent trails. These formulas are safe for use around children and pets, and they’re best suited for light infestations or deterrence purposes. However, they are not designed to kill the colony.
- Outdoor granules and perimeter treatments are typically applied around the exterior of your home or on your lawn. Some contain baits that ants carry back to the colony, while others are residual insecticides that kill on contact. These are ideal as a preventative measure, stopping ants before they enter your home.
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There are 15,000 species of ants, so removing them requires a tailored solution.Credit: The Spruce
What to Look for in an Ant Killer
It Targets Your Unwanted Ant Species
Before purchasing an ant killer, you should identify the species you’re encountering in or around your home. With 15,000 species of ants, removing them requires a tailored solution. That said, some ant species commonly found in North America include odorous house ants, carpenter ants, fire ants, and pavement ants.
Our best indoor pick, Terro Ant Killer Bait Stations, is a versatile solution that targets most common household ants. If you’re dealing with an outdoor infestation, our best overall pick, Amdro Ant Block, is effective on 25 ant species, including fire ants and carpenter ants.
Which Active Ingredients It Uses
Ant killers, depending on the active ingredient, either work instantly or cause a delayed reaction. Delayed-onset ant killers, such as Syngenta 53204 Advion Ant Gel (our best gel pick), use slow-acting chemicals such as borax or indoxacarb to target the source of the infestation. Ants carry the bait back to the nest, where it's shared and gradually eliminates the entire colony.
If you have children or pets in your home, consider a natural alternative that not only smells good but also controls ants. Most rely on botanical oils, which adhere to ants' exoskeletons and prevent their ability to perform gas exchange, essentially suffocating them. For this reason, they work best when applied directly to the ant. The residue can act as a repellent, as most insects are not fans of strong-smelling herbal oils.
We like Mighty Mint Insect & Pest Control (our best natural pick), which uses plant-based ingredients like peppermint oil to repel and kill ants.
How Long-Lasting and Effective It Is
To prevent future ant invasions in your home, a delayed-onset poison is your best option. If you can wipe out the entire colony in the nest, ants are far less likely to return. Our best overall pick, Amdro Ant Block, provides protection against ants for up to three months. However, like any granular bait, exposure to rain or low temperatures can reduce its effectiveness.
Once you’ve treated a current infestation, the best way to prevent future infestations is to make sure ants aren’t drawn to your home, advises Ian Williams, technical services manager at Rollins. His recommendations include cleaning up spilled food and drink quickly, storing food in sealed containers, and not leaving pet food out. You can also seal any potential entry points, including gaps and cracks along windows, doors, siding, and masonry.
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The best way to prevent more infestations is to make sure ants aren’t drawn to your home.Credit: The Spruce
Why Trust The Spruce?
Sage McHugh has been covering all things home—and the bugs that love to invade them—for The Spruce since 2019. Based in South Florida, she’s become a bit of an accidental pest pro, especially when it comes to pesky ants, gnats, and fruit flies. To treat minor indoor ant activity, she’s a fan of Terro Ant Killer Bait Stations for their simple setup and reliable results.
Along with her personal experience, McHugh relied on in-depth insight from hands-on testers to recommend the best products for indoor and outdoor infestations. She also consulted an entomologist for expert guidance.
Our Expert:
- Frank Meek, a board-certified entomologist and manager for Orkin
- Ian Williams, technical services manager at Rollins
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