This Easy DIY Natural Wasp Killer Hack Will Kill Wasps Quickly
That nest will not know what hit it!
Now that the sun is out, it is time for all your favorite outdoor activities: grilling, pushing the kids on the swing set, and tossing cornhole in the front lawn. But nothing is worse than reaching to grab your long-stowed equipment to discover a new pest has taken up residence in your yard: a wasp.
Of course, you want to get rid of the wasp and their nest, but no one wants to get stung or breathe in harmful pesticides. So what is a handyman to do?
Well, fortunately for us, a new TikTok hack has the answer. This DIY wasp killer is easy, quick, cheap, and—above all—will not expose you to harsh chemicals. Here is what you need to know to make it yourself.
How to Make the Natural Wasp Killer
TikTok handyman and entrepreneur Ceith Griffith (@ceithgriffith) developed a simple wasp-killing spray that uses just two ingredients: water and Dawn dish soap.
While this is not exactly a 100% “natural” wasp killer, it is not toxic to humans—especially in comparison to store-bought chemical pesticides.
Ingredients and Supplies
Item Amount
Empty spray bottle 1
Water 10 ounces
Dawn dish soap 2 ounces
Instructions
Step Action
1 Add 10 ounces of water to the spray bottle
2 Add 2 ounces of Dawn dish soap
3 Close the bottle and shake to combine
Frothy bubbles are OK—they actually help the mixture cling to the wasp and nest.
How to Use the Natural Wasp Killer
Step Action
1 Aim the spray bottle directly at the wasp or wasp nest
2 Spray thoroughly—saturate the nest completely
3 Continue spraying until the wasp is down and the nest is soaked
Pro tip: In the video, Griffith sprays a tiny nest about 35 times. You want to really saturate the nest with the mixture.
What happens next: After handily spraying the wasp and nest, the wasp will die, and the nest will dissolve. Easy peasy!
Why This Works
Ingredient How It Works
Dish soap Breaks down the wasp’s exoskeleton and clogs their breathing tubes (spiracles), causing suffocation
Water Carries the soap into the nest and onto the wasps
Mixture Weight of the solution weighs down the nest and makes it easier to remove
This method is effective because soapy water penetrates the wasp’s body, breaking the surface tension and causing them to drown or suffocate almost instantly.
What If I Have a Huge Wasp Nest or Many Wasps?
Now it is time to pull out the big guns.
Situation Recommended Action
Small nest DIY soap spray
Large nest or multiple wasps Consider professional removal
Bald-faced hornets Follow specific instructions for dealing with aggressive species
Queen wasp Spring is the ideal time to eliminate the queen and control the hive
Important Precautions
Do Don’t
Spray at dusk or dawn when wasps are less active Spray during the day when wasps are most aggressive
Wear long sleeves and pants Wear shorts or open-toed shoes
Keep a safe distance Stand directly under the nest
Have an escape route planned Trap yourself in a corner
Confirm you are dealing with wasps, not bees Harm beneficial bees
How to Tell Wasps Apart from Bees
Feature Wasps Bees
Body Smooth, shiny, narrow waist Hairy, rounder, wider waist
Color Bright yellow and black, or black and white Brown, golden, and black
Stinger Can sting multiple times Stings once, then dies
Nest Papery, exposed, often in eaves or ground Waxy, enclosed, often in cavities
Aggression More aggressive Generally docile
Important: Honeybees are essential pollinators and should be protected. If you are unsure whether you have wasps or bees, consult a professional before taking action.
When to Call a Professional
Situation Why Professional Help Is Needed
Large nest DIY methods may not reach all wasps
Nest inside a wall Requires structural knowledge and specialized tools
Allergic to stings Even a single sting can be dangerous
Uncertain about species Avoid harming protected bees or misidentifying
Preventing Future Wasp Nests
Prevention Strategy How It Helps
Seal cracks and gaps Prevents wasps from entering walls and attics
Keep trash covered Removes food sources
Clean up fallen fruit Eliminates attractants
Fill ground holes Removes potential nesting sites
Use decoy nests Some wasps are territorial and avoid areas with existing nests
Install screens Covers vents and openings
First Aid for Wasp Stings
If you do get stung:
Action Why
Remove the stinger (if present) Reduces venom injection
Wash the area with soap and water Prevents infection
Apply a cold compress Reduces swelling and pain
Take an antihistamine Relieves itching and swelling
Seek emergency help if you have allergic symptoms Difficulty breathing, swelling of face/throat, rapid heartbeat
Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis):
Difficulty breathing
Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
Dizziness or confusion
Rapid heartbeat
Hives or rash spreading beyond the sting site
If you experience any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
Quick Reference: DIY Wasp Killer at a Glance
Aspect Details
Ingredients 10 oz water + 2 oz Dawn dish soap
Spray bottle Any empty spray bottle
Application Spray directly on nest; saturate thoroughly
Timing Dawn or dusk when wasps are less active
Safety Wear protective clothing; have an escape route
Effectiveness Kills wasps quickly; dissolves nest
Not for Large nests; aggressive species; severe infestations
Final Thoughts
This simple, two-ingredient wasp killer is a game-changer for dealing with small nests around your home. It is:
Cheap – uses common household ingredients
Safe – non-toxic to humans and pets
Effective – kills wasps on contact
Quick – works in seconds
However, it is important to know its limits. For large nests, aggressive species, or wasps in hard-to-reach areas, do not hesitate to call a professional. Your safety is worth more than the cost of a pest control service.
A wasp nest near your home is a nuisance. But with this simple DIY spray, you can handle small problems quickly and safely—without harsh chemicals or expensive services.
The Untapped Bounty: Unlocking the Nutritional Riches of Acorns
In the tapestry of autumn’s bounty, amidst the vibrant hues of falling leaves, lies a humble, often overlooked treasure: the acorn. This modest nut, the fruit of the majestic oak tree, has nourished a wide array of creatures and cultures throughout history. Yet, in modern times, its value has been largely forgotten, overshadowed by more conventional food sources. This article aims to rediscover the acorn’s potential, not only as a sustainable food source but as a powerhouse of nutrition and health benefits. As we delve into the world of acorns, we uncover the secrets to transforming these nuts into a palatable delight, along with exploring the myriad benefits they offer. Embracing acorns in our diet is not merely a nod to our foraging ancestors but a step forward in our journey towards sustainable living and nutritional wellness.
The Nutritional and Health Benefits of Acorns
Acorns are more than just a survival food; they are a testament to nature’s abundance, offering a wealth of health benefits that deserve recognition. Here is a comprehensive list of the many virtues these nuts hold:
Rich Nutrient Profile: Acorns are a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, which are vital for immune function and skin health, respectively. They also offer a good dose of B vitamins, crucial for energy metabolism and brain health.
Mineral-Rich: These nuts are a source of important minerals such as potassium, which regulates blood pressure; calcium, essential for bone health; and magnesium, necessary for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body.
High in Fiber: With a high fiber content, acorns can aid in digestion, helping to prevent constipation and promoting a healthy gut. Fiber is also key for maintaining a healthy weight and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Antioxidant Properties: Acorns contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Heart Health: The unsaturated fats in acorns can contribute to a healthy heart by lowering bad cholesterol levels and potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Acorn flour offers a gluten-free alternative for baking and cooking, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Energy Boosting: Being energy-dense, acorns can provide a sustained release of energy, making them an excellent addition to an active lifestyle.
Sustainable Food Source: Foraging for acorns encourages a connection with nature and promotes a sustainable approach to food, reducing reliance on processed and imported goods.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Incorporating acorns into modern diets honors the traditions of many indigenous and ancient cultures for whom acorns were a staple food, fostering a deeper appreciation for our natural world and its history.
Versatile Culinary Uses: From flours to oils, acorns offer a versatile base for a variety of culinary creations, enabling the exploration of new flavors and textures in cooking and baking.
Economic Advantage: Foraging acorns can offer economic benefits, reducing grocery bills and fostering self-sufficiency.
Weight Management: The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein in acorns can help in feeling fuller longer, aiding in weight management efforts.
The benefits of acorns extend far beyond their nutritional value, encompassing environmental sustainability, economic savings, and a reconnection with nature’s rhythms. As we turn to the practical aspects of harvesting and preparing acorns, we embark on a journey not just to rediscover an ancient food source but to embrace a lifestyle that values the bounty nature provides. Stay tuned for the next segment, where we will explore how to unlock the edible potential of acorns, ensuring they can be enjoyed safely and deliciously.
Harvesting and Selecting Acorns
The first step in utilizing acorns is gathering them, a task best undertaken in the early autumn when they are ripe and plentiful. Look for acorns that are firm, without any holes or cracks, as these imperfections may indicate the presence of insects or rot. Green acorns are immature and should be left to ripen, while those that are brown and detach easily from their caps are ready for use. It’s a sustainable practice to gather from the ground, leaving enough acorns for wildlife and the regeneration of the oak forest.
Processing Acorns to Remove Tannins
Shelling: Begin by removing the acorns from their shells. This can be done manually or with the aid of a nutcracker. It’s a labor-intensive step but crucial for accessing the nut meat within.
Leaching Out the Tannins: The most critical step in making acorns edible is leaching out the tannins, which are compounds that give raw acorns their bitter taste and can be harmful in large quantities. There are two primary methods for leaching: cold and hot leaching.
Cold Leaching: This method involves soaking the shelled acorns in cold water. The water should be changed when it becomes discolored, approximately every 12 to 24 hours, until the water remains clear, indicating that the tannins have been removed. This process can take several days to a week, depending on the acorn variety.
Hot Leaching: Hot leaching is faster than cold leaching but requires more active management. Boil the acorns in water, and change the water when it turns dark, repeating this process until the water remains mostly clear. This method can remove the tannins in a matter of hours.
Drying: After leaching, the acorns need to be dried to prevent mold and prepare them for grinding. Spread the acorns on a baking sheet and dry them in an oven at a low temperature, in a dehydrator, or air-dry them in a sunny, well-ventilated area.
Making Acorn Flour
Once dried, the acorns can be ground into flour using a food processor, blender, or hand grinder. The resulting flour should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or frozen for extended storage. Acorn flour can be used as a substitute for traditional flours in baking, offering a nutty flavor and nutritional boost to bread, pancakes, and other baked goods.
Incorporating acorns into our diets is a journey back to the roots of human sustenance, a nod to the wisdom of our ancestors who relied on the natural world for their dietary needs. This journey is not just about adding a new ingredient to our pantry but about embracing a deeper connection with nature, understanding the cycles of growth and renewal, and appreciating the abundance that surrounds us. As we integrate acorns into our meals, we partake in a tradition that spans centuries and cultures, celebrating the oak tree’s gift and its enduring significance to both the environment and our health. Let the humble acorn inspire you to explore, innovate, and appreciate the simple, yet profound, pleasures of foraging and feasting from the land.
