Kill ants. Keep them off your space. Simply use baking soda!
This is a statement you’ve probably heard repeatedly over the internet or from friends and family members. And while it may sound like an old wives’ tale, there is some truth to it. Baking soda, also commonly referred to as bicarbonate of soda, can be used as an effective ant killer.
It’s natural, non-toxic (to humans and pets), and relatively inexpensive yet highly effective!
When used correctly, baking soda can help get rid of ants inside and outside your home.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to use baking soda to kill ants as well as keep them from coming back in the future.
And so, to begin with…
What Is Baking Soda?
Baking soda is a white, powdery substance derived from the mineral natron. It has a variety of uses, including baking, cleaning, and deodorizing. It’s also effective at killing insects, including ants.
How Does Baking Soda Kill Ants?
Baking soda disrupts the process that ants use to break down their food. When ants consume baking soda, it causes them to bloat and eventually dies.
The exact mechanism is still not fully understood, but it’s thought that baking soda interferes with the ants’ digestive system somehow.
Interestingly, not all ants are equally susceptible to the effects of baking soda. Some species are more resistant than others and can even survive ingesting small amounts of it. However, most ants will die after consuming baking soda, making it an effective way to get rid of them.
How to Use Baking Soda to Kill Ants
Here is how you can try to rid your home of ants without chemical sprays.
1 . Make a Baking Soda and Sugar Ant bait
One of the most common ways to use baking soda to kill ants is by making an ant bait. This is a mixture of baking soda and sugar that attracts ants and, when consumed, will kill them.
To make an ant bait, simply mix equal parts of baking soda and sugar (1:1 ratio). You can then place this mixture in a shallow dish or on a piece of wax paper.
The sugar will attract the ants, and the baking soda will kill them.
2 – Sprinkle Baking Soda Directly on Ants
If you have a small number of ants that you want to get rid of, you can simply sprinkle baking soda directly on them. This will kill the ants on contact.
3 – Make a Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution
Another way to use baking soda to kill ants is by making vinegar and baking soda solution, which you can then spray directly on the ants.
To do that, mix 1 part vinegar, and 2 parts baking soda (1:2 ratio), then transfer the mixture to a spray bottle. Rain it on the ants.
4 – Baking Soda and Salt Solution
Mix 1 part salt and 2 parts baking soda (1:2 ratio); transfer into a spray bottle, then spray directly on the ants.
5 – Use Baking Soda as a Barrier
One of the most effective ways to use baking soda to kill ants is by creating a barrier around your home with it.
It prevents the ants from entering your home in the first place and even clears those already inside.
Simply sprinkle baking soda around the perimeter of your home. You can also spread it in areas where you’ve seen ants enter your home.
6 – Use Baking Soda in Conjunction with Other Methods
You can as well use baking soda alongside other methods like mixing it with diatomaceous earth to create a powder that will kill ants.
A lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda combination is equally significant.
Tips for Using Baking Soda to Kill Ants
Now that we’ve gone over how to use baking soda to kill ants, here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Baking soda is most effective when used as a preventative measure. Once ants have already infested your home, it can be challenging to get rid of them.
- You need to be patient when using baking soda to kill ants. It can take a few days to a week for the baking soda to work its magic.
- Make sure to keep your bait dish clean and replenish it as needed. Otherwise, the ants will figure out that something is up, and they’ll avoid it.
- Don’t use too much baking soda. A little goes a long way. If you use too much, the ants will be able to avoid it.
- If you have pets or small children, make sure they can’t get to the bait dish. Baking soda is safe for humans and animals, but it’s not something you want them to consume regularly.
- You can store any unused bait in a sealed container in the fridge. Just make sure to use it within a few weeks.
The Takeaway: Baking Soda Often Works to Kill Ants and Is Worth a Try
With these tips in mind, you should have no problem using baking soda to kill ants. Just be patient and consistent, and you’ll see results. Have you ever used baking soda to kill ants? What method did you use? Let us know on social media. You can find us on Facebook or Mewe.
Today, she also serves as a content producer and sometimes editor. Her vast (and often surprising!) skillset enables her to conquer any challenges.
She loves writing about gardening, wellness, and raising healthy children. As a full-time author and parent of two children, Maureen knows a trick or two on these topics.
After gaining valuable experience in blogging and content production with the DIY Home & Garden team, Maureen branched out and started her own publication, as well. Now, she proudly publishes the website: The Perfect Parenting Place.
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