Natural Pest Control with Baking Soda

Natural Pest Control with Baking Soda: A Step-by-Step Guide

Looking for a safe, affordable, and chemical-free way to deal with pests? Baking soda is a surprisingly powerful solution for many common household bugs and rodents. Here’s how to use it effectively against cockroaches, ants, fleas, moths, mice, and spiders — all using simple ingredients you probably already have.

1. 🪳 Cockroaches

How It Works:

Baking soda reacts with the acids in a cockroach’s digestive system, causing fatal internal damage.

What to Do:

  • Mix equal parts of baking soda and sugar.
  • Place small amounts in shallow lids or bottle caps near cockroach-prone areas such as under sinks, behind appliances, and inside cupboards.

2. 🐜 Ants

How It Works:

The sugar attracts the ants, while the baking soda disrupts their internal systems once ingested.

What to Do:

  • Combine 1 part baking soda with 1 part powdered sugar.
  • Sprinkle the mixture along baseboards, ant trails, windowsills, and entry points.

3. 🦟 Fleas

How It Works:

Baking soda acts as a natural dehydrator, drying out fleas and their eggs to kill them effectively.

What to Do:

  • Sprinkle a generous layer over carpets, pet beds, and upholstery.
  • Leave for 12–24 hours before vacuuming thoroughly.
  • Repeat as needed for heavy infestations.

4. 🦋 Moths

How It Works:

Baking soda absorbs musty odors and deters moths from laying eggs in fabrics.

What to Do:

  • Fill small sachets or bowls with baking soda.
  • Place them in closets, dresser drawers, storage bins, and garment bags.
  • Replace every 2–4 weeks for continued freshness.

5. 🐭 Mice & Rats

How It Works:

Baking soda reacts inside a rodent’s stomach and produces gas they cannot expel, leading to internal distress.

What to Do:

  • Mix 1 part baking soda with 1 part peanut butter.
  • Place small dabs in corners, behind appliances, or along known rodent paths.
  • Important: Use with caution if pets are present.

6. 🕷️ Spiders

How It Works:

Spiders are deterred by dry, dusty environments and strong scents like peppermint or lavender.

What to Do:

  • Sprinkle baking soda around doorways, windowsills, and room corners.
  • For extra effect, add a few drops of essential oils like peppermint or tea tree.

💡 Extra Tips for Success

  • Reapply regularly: Refresh your baking soda traps every 3–5 days or after cleaning.
  • Keep it dry: Moisture can reduce the effectiveness of baking soda.
  • Pair with essential oils: Enhance the repellent power with oils such as lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus.

With just a few pantry ingredients and consistent application, baking soda becomes a reliable ally in keeping your home pest-free — naturally!

Leave a Comment