You spot a few ants in your kitchen, wipe them away, and feel relieved—until they’re back the next morning. Ants are persistent, organized, and quick to return if you don’t treat the root cause. For many Tacoma homeowners, the question isn’t whether to fight back, but how: DIY methods or professional ant control? Here’s how the two compare—and why expert help usually wins.

The Limits of DIY Ant Control

DIY methods can help with small problems, but they rarely solve the infestation. Cleaning up crumbs, sealing cracks, and setting out bait stations might control surface activity, but they won’t reach the colony.

Common DIY steps include:

  • Wiping down counters with vinegar or soap and water
  • Vacuuming food crumbs and spills
  • Storing food in airtight containers
  • Using over-the-counter bait traps
  • Sealing visible cracks or gaps

These steps are smart—but temporary. The challenge is that most ant colonies live deep inside walls, under floors, or outdoors near the foundation. You may kill the ants you see, but thousands more remain hidden.

Why Professional Ant Control Works Better

Professional pest control goes beyond what DIY products can achieve. Sentinel Pest Control uses a precise, science-based approach designed for lasting results. Our technicians identify the ant species, find the source of the infestation, and target the nest directly.

What sets professional service apart:

  • Accurate species identification: Different ants—like carpenter or odorous house ants—require different treatment methods.
  • Targeted treatments: We use professional-grade products that reach the colony, not just surface ants.
  • Eco-conscious options: Our treatments are safe for families, pets, and the environment.
  • Preventive measures: We inspect your property for moisture, entry points, and other risk factors to stop future invasions.

The result? Complete elimination of the colony and protection that lasts long after the initial treatment.

Long-Term Prevention and Peace of Mind

Ant prevention isn’t a one-time job—it’s an ongoing process. Sentinel Pest Control offers maintenance plans to keep your Tacoma home protected year-round.

Our preventive service includes:

  • Seasonal inspections to catch early signs of activity
  • Routine exterior treatments to create a protective barrier
  • Recommendations for moisture control and sealing entry points

When you choose professional pest control, you gain more than just results—you gain confidence that your home is protected.

Ant Control Services

DIY ant control can help in the short term, but for lasting relief, expert help makes the difference. Sentinel Pest Control combines local expertise, proven methods, and eco-friendly treatments to eliminate ants at the source and prevent them from returning.

If you’re ready to stop fighting ants on your own, visit sentinelpest.com or call today to schedule your professional ant control service in Tacoma, WA. With Sentinel on your side, you can keep your kitchen clean, calm, and completely ant-free.