Baking soda is one of the simplest, safest, and most affordable ingredients for controlling common household pests. It doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, it’s easy to apply, and it can help reduce or repel unwanted insects when used correctly. Below is a clear, safe guide for using baking soda against different pests.
1. Cockroaches
Baking soda can help reduce roach activity when paired with something sweet.
How to use:
- Mix equal parts baking soda + sugar (or honey).
- Place small amounts in shallow lids or corners under sinks, behind appliances, and along walls.
Roaches are attracted to the sweetness and bring it back to their hiding spots.
2. Ants
Ants dislike the texture and dryness of baking soda.
How to use:
- Sprinkle baking soda along ant trails, window edges, door cracks, and entry points.
- Combine baking soda + powdered sugar to attract ants away from food areas.
This helps interrupt their path and reduces the number that enter the home.
3. Fleas
Baking soda helps dehydrate and reduce flea presence in carpets and fabrics.
How to use:
- Sprinkle baking soda generously on carpets, rugs, pet beds, and fabric furniture.
- Brush it into the fibers with your hand or a soft brush.
- Leave it for 12–24 hours.
- Vacuum thoroughly.
Repeat every few days for best results.
4. Moths (Pantry or Closet)
Baking soda keeps areas dry and less attractive to moths.
How to use:
- Place small bowls of baking soda inside the pantry or wardrobe.
- Sprinkle lightly on shelves, leave 1 hour, then wipe clean.
Pair with good cleaning and airtight storage of grains/flours.
5. Mice / Rats (Repellent Only)
Baking soda won’t kill rodents, but it can help repel them due to its smell and dryness.
How to use:
- Sprinkle baking soda along walls, behind appliances, and inside cupboards.
- Add peppermint oil on cotton balls next to it for stronger repelling power.
Use humane traps if rodents are present.
6. Spiders
Spiders dislike dry, powdery surfaces.
How to use:
- Sprinkle baking soda in window corners, basement edges, behind furniture, and dark areas.
- Vacuum and reapply weekly.
This helps discourage them from settling in those areas.
Important Notes
- Baking soda works best for repelling, reducing activity, or controlling small infestations.
- It is safe to use around the home but should not replace professional help for large infestations.
- Keep mixtures away from pets who might ingest them.
