Ants In The Dishwasher: A common problem

Having ants in the dishwasher is a common problem. So common in fact, I’d say it’s close to the number one complaint we hear from customers who call for new service. Here’s what’s going on.

Envirocare gets rid of ants in your home with our pest control treatment services.
Carpenter ant

All living things need food, water and shelter to survive. All ant colonies are extremely busy during the warm months gathering food so that the colony has enough energy stored to survive the winter. If you leave out an easy meal, ants will find it. These hardy little creatures will eat anything you will, and a bunch of things you won’t. For example, pavement ants have a sweet tooth and are often found in soda cans. Carpenters ants, on the other hand, have a nasty habit of eating one another—not exactly acceptable human behavior. These are two completely different habits that accomplish the same goal.

How Ants Get Food

One thing all ants have in common is an attraction to your dishwasher. So how do they get in? Why are they there and where are they from?

  1. How did ants get into the dishwasher? I’m going to assume that there isn’t a huge hole in your dishwasher where the ants waltzed right in—if there was, it would leak. The most common way ants get in is when the dishwasher is open. Most people don’t fill the entire dishwasher all at once and turn it on. There’s usually a day or two in between, and that’s when the little thieves make their way in.
  2. Why do they go in the dishwasher? This one’s pretty simple. Ants are opportunists—give them a free meal and they’re going to take it.
  3. Where did the ants come from? This goes to the root of the problem. If you find ants in your dishwasher, especially large black ants or carpenter ants, they’re likely nesting in your home. Many people are astonished to hear this, but it’s the most likely scenario. If you have ants nesting in your home you’ll probably need a professional.

Here’s how to solve the problem:

  1. Close and lock the dishwasher after each use
  2. Rinse plates clean
  3. Get rid of ant colonies in and around your home

If you have ants in your dishwasher and need help, fill out the form below or call Envirocare Pest Control at 1-888-879-6481.

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