How the Baking Soda Method Is Supposed to Work
The usual recipe involves mixing:
- Baking soda
- Sugar (to attract the ants)
The sugar attracts the ants, and the baking soda is intended to be carried back to the colony and consumed.
Does It Work?
Results are mixed.
- Some people report a reduction in ant numbers.
- Others find little or no effect.
- Scientific evidence for baking soda as a reliable ant-control method is limited.
One challenge is that many ant species may not carry enough baking soda back to the colony to eliminate it.
Why Ants Keep Coming Back
Even if you kill the ants you see, the colony may remain active if:
- The nest is untouched.
- Food sources are still available.
- Moisture problems persist.
- New ants enter through cracks or gaps.
This is why “forever” solutions are uncommon.
More Effective Ways to Control Ants
1. Remove Food Sources
- Store food in sealed containers.
- Clean crumbs and spills promptly.
- Keep pet food areas clean.
2. Seal Entry Points
- Caulk cracks around windows and doors.
- Repair gaps where pipes and cables enter the home.
3. Eliminate Water Sources
- Fix leaking faucets and pipes.
- Reduce standing water.
4. Use Ant Baits
Commercial ant baits are often more effective because worker ants carry the bait back to the colony, helping target the nest rather than just individual ants.
A Simple Baking Soda Bait
If you’d like to try the home remedy:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and sugar.
- Place small amounts near ant trails.
- Keep the mixture away from children and pets.
- Monitor results over several days.
When to Call a Professional
Consider professional pest control if:
- Ant infestations are large or recurring.
- You suspect carpenter ants.
- Multiple nests are present.
- DIY methods have failed.
The Bottom Line
Baking soda mixed with sugar may help reduce ant activity in some situations, but it is unlikely to eliminate an infestation permanently on its own. Long-term control usually requires identifying the nest, removing food and water sources, sealing entry points, and, when necessary, using proven ant-control methods.
