The Natural Pest Control Power of Baking Soda
Baking soda isn’t just for baking or deodorizing your fridge—it can also be your go-to solution for keeping pests out of your home and garden without using harsh chemicals. Affordable, easy to find, and non-toxic, it offers a natural approach to pest control that’s both effective and safe for families.
Best Ways to Use Baking Soda for Pest Control in Your Home and Yard
- Cockroaches
Mix equal parts baking soda and sugar. Place the mixture near areas where roaches hide—under sinks, behind appliances, or near food. The sugar lures them; the baking soda reacts with moisture inside their bodies, causing fatal internal pressure. - Ants
Combine baking soda and sugar in equal parts. Sprinkle along ant trails and near entry points. The sugar attracts them, but the baking soda interferes with their digestion. - Rodents (Mice and Rats)
Mix baking soda, sugar, and flour in equal parts. Add a little warm water to make dough balls. Place these in rodent-prone areas. Rodents can’t expel gas—leading to lethal effects. - Fleas in Carpets and Furniture
Blend baking soda and salt. Sprinkle over carpeted areas and upholstery. Brush the mixture into fabrics, let it sit overnight, then vacuum thoroughly. - Bed Bugs
Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply along mattress seams, bed frames, and furniture cracks. Leave overnight and vacuum the next day. Repeat as needed. - Snails and Slugs (Garden Use)
Lightly sprinkle baking soda on the soil near affected plants. Use sparingly to avoid changing soil pH. - Centipedes in Drains
Pour 1 cup of baking soda followed by 2 cups of vinegar down the drain. The fizzing reaction helps eliminate centipedes by suffocating them.
Other Uses:
- Keep insects out by sprinkling baking soda at door thresholds or window sills.
- Mix 1 tsp baking soda with 1 cup water to spray on powdery mildew.
- Use a small dish of baking soda in closets to keep moths away.
Safety Tips:
- Avoid overuse on plants to maintain soil balance.
- Always test in a small area before applying widely.
- Keep out of reach of pets unless safe for them.
Bottom Line:
If you’re looking for an easy, eco-friendly way to fight pests, give baking soda a try. It’s a household hero for more than just cleaning and deodorizing—it’s your natural pest-fighting partner.
