Vaseline & Sugar Trap: How to Keep Pests at Bay the Natural Way

Danielle
by Danielle

Today, I've got a handy DIY project that will help you bid farewell to those pesky ants and cockroaches without resorting to harsh chemicals or expensive exterminators.


We're going to whip up a homemade sugar trap incorporating a simple yet effective ingredient: Vaseline.

Sugar ant trap DIY

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How to get rid of cockroaches

1. Prepare Your Trap

First things first, grab a small bowl or container.


Now, scoop out some petroleum jelly and fill the container about halfway.

Homemade sugar ant trap

2. Add Some Sweet Temptation

To lure those unwanted guests into our trap, we're going to sweeten the deal (quite literally). Sprinkle a bit of sugar into the Vaseline and give it a good mix.

Cockroach and ant traps homemade

3. Strategically Place Your Traps

Now comes the fun part—strategically placing your traps where the insects are most likely to roam. Think along baseboards, near entry points, or anywhere you've spotted those critters scuttling about.

Roach and ant traps DIY

4. Check and Refresh

Keep an eye on your traps and empty them periodically as needed. Simply scoop out the old petroleum jelly mixture and replace it with a fresh batch. This ensures that your traps remain effective in keeping those pests at bay.


More Natural Pest Control Solutions

If you're interested in more natural ways to keep pests out of your home, check out this guide How to Make Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar Ants Spray.

Vaseline in doorway

Roach and Ant Traps DIY Tutorial

With these DIY cockroach and ant traps, you can say goodbye to chemical-laden sprays and hello to a pest-free home the natural way.


Give it a try and let me know how it works for you!


Remember, a little creativity goes a long way in tackling household pests.

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  • Sue Collins Sue Collins on Dec 31, 2024

    Yes I will try this.

  • Melinda Melinda on Mar 18, 2025

    I’ve tried a few DIY pest control tricks in the past, and while some work for a while, they don’t always solve the root problem.


    Ants and cockroaches can be persistent, and I’ve noticed that even if you trap some, more tend to find their way back. The sugar traps can attract a lot of them, but if there's a nest nearby, you might need something stronger.


    When I had a major ant issue last summer, I ended up calling a professional. It was quicker and more effective than chasing them around with DIY solutions. If you’re dealing with a stubborn infestation, Pest Control Markham Exterminator might be a good option to look into.

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