How to Use Baking Soda to Get Rid of Pests: COCKROACHES, FLEAS, ANTS, MOTHS, MICE/RATS, SPIDERS, and More
Baking soda isn’t just for baking—it’s your secret weapon against household pests! This simple, natural, and affordable powder can be used to eliminate a wide range of pests without resorting to harmful chemicals. Here’s how to use baking soda to repel and kill the most common intruders in your home:
1. Cockroaches
How it works: Baking soda reacts with the acid in roaches’ digestive systems, causing their stomachs to expand and burst.
Method:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and sugar (e.g., 1 tbsp each).
- Place the mixture in shallow lids or bottle caps and leave in dark corners, under sinks, and behind appliances.
- The sugar attracts the roaches, the baking soda kills them.
2. Ants
How it works: Baking soda disrupts ants’ digestive systems.
Method:
- Mix 1 part baking soda with 1 part powdered sugar.
- Sprinkle along entry points, windowsills, and ant trails.
- Reapply daily until the ants are gone.
3. Fleas
How it works: Baking soda dehydrates fleas and kills their larvae.
Method:
- Sprinkle baking soda generously on carpets, pet beds, and furniture.
- Scrub it into the fabric using a broom or brush.
- Leave for 12–24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
- Repeat every few days during infestations.
4. Moths
How it works: Baking soda neutralizes the smells that attract moths.
Method:
- Place bowls of baking soda in closets, drawers, or shelves.
- Add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus essential oil for extra moth-repelling power.
5. Mice & Rats
How it works: Like with roaches, baking soda reacts with stomach acid and can be lethal to rodents.
Method:
- Mix 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of baking soda.
- Form into small balls or place in shallow containers.
- Put in corners, behind appliances, or near suspected nesting areas.
- Keep away from pets.
6. Spiders
How it works: Baking soda repels spiders with its texture and odor.
Method:
- Sprinkle a thin line of baking soda along windows, doorways, and cracks.
- Combine with essential oils like peppermint or tea tree for stronger effects.
7. Silverfish & Bed Bugs
How it works: Dehydrates their bodies and kills them over time.
Method:
- Dust baking soda under mattresses, behind headboards, and around baseboards.
- Vacuum after 24–48 hours and reapply weekly.
FAQs
Q: Is baking soda safe for pets and kids?
Yes, baking soda is generally safe, but large amounts should be kept away from pets and young children.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
Depending on the pest, noticeable results may occur within 1–7 days.
Q: Can I combine baking soda with other natural remedies?
Absolutely! Combine with vinegar, essential oils, or lemon juice to boost its power for cleaning and repelling pests.
Next time pests try to move in, just reach into your pantry. One scoop of baking soda might be all you need to kick them out—for good!
