Baking soda can kill ants when used correctly but it will not eliminate a large colony in one minute.

Mix equal parts baking soda and powdered sugar then lightly dust the blend along visible ant trails, along baseboards, and near entry points where ants come in. The powdered sugar attracts the workers and the baking soda is harmless to surfaces, but inside the ant gut it reacts with digestive acids and produces gas that the insect cannot expel. Workers will eat the mixture and carry some back to the nest which spreads the effect through the colony over hours to days rather than minutes. For best results, apply the bait in thin lines or in small spots so the ants concentrate on it instead of scattering it, and use a shallow container if you need to keep the bait from being blown away or disturbed by pets. Maintain cleanliness by removing food crumbs, wiping surfaces with soapy water, and storing food in sealed containers so ants have fewer competing food sources and will prefer the bait. Repeat treatment daily for several days if ant activity continues and monitor where new trails appear so you can place fresh bait accordingly.

Common mistakes include using too much bait which causes ants to avoid the pile so spread thinly and refresh small amounts often; placing bait where rain, sprinklers, or pets disturb it so move treatments to sheltered areas or inside cracks and crevices; and assuming immediate results when colony collapse takes time so continue monitoring and reapplying until activity stops. Another frequent issue is using only baking soda without a sweet attractant which reduces uptake, so always mix it with powdered sugar or another food lure. If heavy infestations persist after repeated treatments consider combining baiting with sanitation and sealing entry points or consulting a pest professional.

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