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!