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1 cup baking soda
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1 cup fine salt (table salt or sea salt, finely ground)
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Optional: 10–15 drops of essential oil (e.g., peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree) for added repelling power
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Spray bottle (if making a solution) or shaker jar (for dry application)
Preparation
For Dry Powder Application (Best for Carpets, Cracks, and Corners):
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In a bowl, mix equal parts baking soda and salt.
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Add essential oil, if using, and stir thoroughly.
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Transfer the mixture to an old spice shaker or any container with holes.
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Sprinkle generously on carpets, pet bedding, along baseboards, window sills, under furniture, and anywhere pests hide.
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Let sit for 12–24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
For Spray Solution (Best for Ant Trails, Slugs, and Roach Entry Points):
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Mix 1 tablespoon baking soda and 1 tablespoon salt in 1 cup warm water.
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Add essential oil and shake well.
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Spray directly on ant trails, cockroach hiding spots, door frames, and around garbage bins.
Serving and Storage Tips (Usage & Safety)
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Dry powder mix can be stored in a jar with a lid for up to 3 months.
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Keep all mixtures in cool, dry places and away from moisture.
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Avoid using the dry mix on dark or delicate fabrics, as salt can sometimes cause fading.
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Reapply every 3–5 days until pest activity stops.
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Always vacuum thoroughly after use to remove dead pests and residue.
Variants
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Citrus zest variant: Add lemon or orange peel zest to your dry mix for natural pest repelling oils and a fresh scent.
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Borax boost (for fleas and roaches): Mix in 2 tablespoons of borax powder with the baking soda and salt blend (use with caution around pets).
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Vinegar combo: Spray white vinegar on surfaces after applying the dry mix to enhance repelling effects.
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Sticky trap upgrade: Apply the dry mix around the base of a shallow dish with honey or peanut butter in the center to attract and trap crawling insects.
FAQ
Q: How does baking soda and salt kill pests?
A: Both ingredients dehydrate pests by absorbing moisture from their exoskeletons or bodies, causing them to die naturally over time.
Q: Is it safe for pets and kids?
A: Yes — as long as they don’t ingest large amounts. Avoid direct contact with eyes, and vacuum thoroughly after use.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: You may start seeing a reduction in pests within 24–48 hours, especially with fleas and ants.
Q: Can this be used on plants or in the garden?
A: Use cautiously. While it works well on slugs and ants, excessive salt can harm soil and plant roots. Apply only to targeted spots, not directly on vegetation.
Q: Will this kill bed bugs completely?
A: It can help reduce populations, especially in early infestations, but for heavy infestations, it’s best to combine with vacuuming, steam, and mattress covers — or contact a pest control specialist.