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The Right Way to Use Baking Soda to Keep Rats Away from Your Home

The Right Way to Use Baking Soda to Keep Rats Away from Your Home

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Absolutely! Here’s a practical and informative article on using baking soda as a natural rat deterrent:

🐭 The Right Way to Use Baking Soda to Keep Rats Away from Your Home

Rats and mice are persistent pests—and once they find a cozy spot in your home, they can be incredibly hard to get rid of. While traps and poisons are commonly used, many people prefer a natural, non-toxic solution—especially in homes with children or pets.

One surprising pantry item that’s been gaining attention for pest control? Baking soda.

Let’s break down the right way to use baking soda to deter rats, how it works, and what you should know before trying it.

đŸ§Ș Why Baking Soda Works Against Rats

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) reacts with the acid in a rat’s stomach to produce carbon dioxide gas. Unlike humans, rats are unable to expel this gas efficiently, which can lead to internal discomfort or death over time. While results may vary, it’s a non-toxic method many homeowners try as part of an integrated pest management approach.

đŸ› ïž How to Use Baking Soda as a Rodent Repellent (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Make an Attractive Bait

Rats won’t eat baking soda on its own, so you’ll need to mix it with ingredients they find irresistible.

Effective bait recipe:

  • 1 part baking soda
  • 1 part peanut butter (strong scent, high fat = attractive to rats)
  • Optional: 1 part flour or sugar (for added appeal)

Directions:

  1. Mix the ingredients into a thick paste.
  2. Form small balls or spoonfuls.
  3. Place bait in areas where you’ve seen rat activity: behind appliances, in dark corners, under sinks, near garbage bins, or along walls.

Step 2: Use Safe Containers (if needed)

If you have pets or small children:

  • Place the bait inside a small container with holes (like a yogurt cup) or behind furniture where kids/pets can’t reach.
  • Mark it clearly as “DO NOT TOUCH.”

Step 3: Monitor and Reapply

  • Check every few days to see if the bait has been eaten.
  • Refresh as needed until rat activity subsides.

⚠ Important Tips & Precautions

  • Keep out of reach of pets and children—even though baking soda is non-toxic, peanut butter can attract curious noses.
  • This method is slow-acting and may not eliminate an entire infestation. It’s best for early signs of rodent activity.
  • Seal up entry points to prevent more rats from coming in—use steel wool or caulk to block holes and cracks.