How to Combat Aphids with Soap – Naturally and Effectively

In this post, we’ll show you how to use soapy water to combat aphids, scale insects, thrips, spider mites, and other larvae—completely without chemicals. Please note that beneficial insects may also be affected, so use this method only on infested plants.

Follow our simple step-by-step guide below to get rid of pests on your plants.

Last edited on May 20, 2024

Why does soap work against aphids?

Soap is not toxic—but it is highly effective against pests. The secret lies in the fat in the soap, which covers the aphids and suffocates them. That’s why it’s important to use a very fatty soap, such as Västerbottenssåpa or linseed oil soap, for the best results.

So all you need is soap and water—additives such as rubbing alcohol, vinegar, or baking soda are unnecessary and may in some cases damage the plant.

Here’s how to do it—step by step

1. Use soapy water

You can use our all-purpose soap spray directly on the plant—it’s simple.

2. Spray the plant

Spray the entire plant—both the top and underside of the leaves—every other day. Continue until the aphids are gone.

3. Rinse with clean water

When you see that the aphids have disappeared, shower the plant with ordinary water to remove the soap.


Keep in mind that beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, may also be affected by the treatment. Therefore, spray only plants that are clearly infested.

__________________________________________________________________________

Questions and Answers

1. How often should you spray the plant with soapy water?
Spray the plant every other day until the aphids are dead.


2. What is it in the soap that kills the aphids?
It is the fat in the soap that suffocates the aphids by covering them.


3. Do you need to add anything else to the soapy water mixture to combat aphids?
No, you only need water and soap. Rubbing alcohol, vinegar, or baking soda are not needed.

Order natural cleaning products here: Västerbottenssåpa