Wasps and yellow jackets are very helpful in the garden since they feed on insects that could harm your veggies, but we obviously do not want them to nest near our houses.
Unlike their more docile cousins the bees, wasps can sting you multiple times if you disturb them.
But when there’s a wasp nest near your house, it usually becomes necessary to get rid of these buggers.
There are many DiY methods out there, and one of the most popular suggestions is to use soapy water.
But does soapy water really kill wasps? If yes, what are the precautions one should take while using this method?
- KILLS ON CONTACT: Hot Shot Wasp and Hornet Killer controls wasps, hornets,...
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Does Soapy Water Kill Wasps?
Yes, soapy water is very effective at killing wasps.
In fact, you can kill yellow jackets, hornets, and even bed bugs with soapy water.
But before using any home remedy or product, make sure you wear protective gear. They’ll sting you to defend their homes if they get a chance.
Related: Is It a Bee, Wasp, or Hornet?
How Does Soapy Water Kill Wasps and Yellow Jackets?
Soap breaks down the surface membrane of water.
This allows the water to get into an insect’s breathing holes, causing them to drown.
The soap also acts as an adhesive, further gumming up their respiratory systems.
Killing Wasps With Soapy Water (Step-by-Step)
If you want to use this home remedy, then you just need some hot water, dish soap (we prefer Dawn, since it’s safe for the environment), and a spray bottle.
To make this solution, you need to:
- Add 2 to 4 tablespoons (30-60 ml) of liquid dish soap to an empty spray bottle.
- Add 2 cups (500 ml) of hot water and put the lid on.
- Gently swirl or shake the bottle so the dish soap and water mix to create the wasp killing solution.
- Wait until dusk when the wasps are calmer and all are inside the nest.
- Put on some protective gloves, long sleeves, and you may wish to also cover your face to avoid stings.
- Spray the solution directly on the wasps or yellow jackets.
You may need to experiment with stream/spray dial on the bottle to find a good combination of distance and spread.
Sounds Quite Easy, Right?
All you have to do is throw a few ingredients into a bottle and spray those stinging insects into oblivion.
But that last part is the real challenge.
A soapy water solution lacks harsh chemicals, but it also means an entire nest of angry wasps might come after you.
Story Time
A few years ago, my neighbor tried this home remedy, and it turned out to be a terrible mistake. He said he simply threw the soapy water on their nest, and wow, it worked! It killed a few wasps.
But he soon realized most of the wasp population was still alive, and they exacted their revenge.
Based on my neighbor’s experience, I want to share some precautions to keep you safe.
Read Also: What Does a Wasp Eat?
Precautions While Using Soapy Water to Kill Wasps
Dealing with a single wasp is often low-risk. If you miscalculate, though, your family could be facing multiple wasp stings.
Before using soap-based wasp sprays, tell your family members (especially kids) to stay away from the warzone.
Even pets should be kept inside until you’re done.
More importantly, keep a clear escape route in case things go wrong.
Make sure all windows and doors are closed except for your escape route so the wasps can’t follow you inside.
Remember, these pesky insects will chase you down in large, angry swarms if you make a mistake.
- KILLS ON CONTACT: Hot Shot Wasp and Hornet Killer controls wasps, hornets,...
- UP TO 27 FOOT JET SPRAY: With a jet spray that reaches up to 27 feet, you can...
- NON-STAINING: This product is non-staining to most home siding depending on age...
SHOULD You Use Soapy Water?
Another important thing before using this risky home remedy is to ask yourself: Is it worth it?
If there are only a few wasps, you can try this home remedy because it will be easier to deal with them.
Paper wasps and mud daubers are examples of wasps that are often solitary.
However, if there are many wasps having nests at multiple locations, this remedy could be dangerous.
In this case, commercial products like wasp bombs and foggers are a much better way to go.
Related: Does RAID Stain Walls?
When to Hire the Pros
Soapy water and other home remedies can definitely get rid of wasps; however they’re not 100% effective.
In the case of a full-fledge wasp infestation, it’s best to hire a professional wasp exterminator who can deal with this problem safely and efficiently.
Final Words
Killing wasps with soapy water is a good way to eliminate them from around your home.
Just remember that there’s a risk involved in attacking wasps directly.
The time of day and nest size will have a major effect on your success.
However, you can also use soapy water for an indirect attack if you want to play it safe.
Add some peppermint oil or use steeped garlic water with the soap and spray near the places you don’t want wasps to visit.
This will repel them and may make solitary wasps think abut moving house.
Just remember to always take preventative measures such as protective clothing and having an escape route so you don’t get stung.
And remember, never be afraid to call in the big guns if you need help. It’s preferable to a trip to the ER.
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Soapy water totally works INCREDIBLY effective!!!
I have used this method successfully for years. I always have a pump spray locked and loaded. They die within 5-15 seconds but here are some important tips:
1. You MUST spray the beast directly. Spraying the nest is not quite as effective because the soap does get in direct contact with them.
2. Spray them after they land. Unless you are an excellent sniper it’s hard to hit them with enough stuff while flying.
3. Works fairly well in ants and ant hills too (spray into hole).
Try that if you want..If has to be Dawn (not Dawn Platinum) dish liquid and Hot water. For best results use a large glass , mix it fairly strong, and throw it directly on the nest.The wasps will drop dead instantly.