How Apple Cider Vinegar Can Deter Wasps

The warm months bring vibrant blooms, sunny days, and unfortunately, unwelcome visitors like wasps. These buzzing pests can quickly turn a pleasant outdoor gathering into a nerve-wracking experience so knowing how to get rid of them is key to a happy summer.

If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to deter wasps from your surroundings, look no further than the bottle of apple cider vinegar in your kitchen pantry.

Apple cider vinegar is a versatile ingredient known for its numerous benefits. It can be your secret weapon in trapping and killing wasps. The key component that makes apple cider vinegar an effective tool for wasps is acetic acid.

This natural compound gives apple cider vinegar its characteristic tangy flavor and scent. In a way, it smells like rotting fruit… which just so happens to smell delicious to wasps. Using it as a lure in your wasp trap can snag these bugs for good.

First, you need an empty bottle with a narrow neck. Pour a little bit of apple cider vinegar into the bottle along with some sugar to attract your wasp enemies. Next, add a couple of drops of dish soap.

The apple cider vinegar and sugar will attract the wasps. The dish soap breaks the surface tension of the vinegar, causing the wasps to drown. Place your trap away from any area you like to frequent but near locations wasps may gather.

If you’re hoping to create a wasp-repelling spray, you can do so using another pantry staple: white vinegar. It’s important not to use apple cider vinegar for this because the wasps may actually be attracted to the scent—whereas white vinegar will repel them.

Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray the solution anywhere wasps are commonly found, such as outdoor dining areas, windows, and door frames.

Avoid spraying any vinegar directly on a wasp since this will only anger them. An angry wasp is likely to retaliate, so be watchful of your aim. Spray your vinegar-water mixture anywhere you want to discourage wasps from establishing nests.

Remember that prevention is key. While white vinegar can be an effective tool in deterring wasps and apple cider vinegar can be used to trap wasps, it’s essential to practice preventative measures to minimize their presence.

Seal up all entry points in your home, such as cracks and gaps in window and door sealants. Cover any food and beverages, and be sure to fully clean up after dining outdoors. Remove all food sources to keep your space less attractive to wasps.

With these techniques and strategies, you can bid farewell to bothersome wasps and enjoy your outdoor spaces without fear of stings.