If you’re still using conventional weed killers like Roundup around your home, garden, driveway, or where your children and pets play, this is your sign to stop. There are safer, more natural alternatives that can help manage weeds without bringing the same level of concern into your home environment.
Glyphosate — the active ingredient in Roundup — has become incredibly widespread. It’s now being detected in food, water, soil, and even clothing. That’s deeply concerning, especially considering the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classified glyphosate as a “probable carcinogen.”
Over the years, glyphosate use has exploded in agriculture and residential landscaping, creating constant exposure for families, children, pets, and farm workers. While many people assume these products are safe because they’re sold in stores, growing research and legal battles continue raising serious questions about their long-term health and environmental impact.
I recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to help fight against Bayer-Monsanto seeking immunity from lawsuits tied to Roundup. Thankfully, that battle was won — but the fight for safer products and greater accountability is far from over.
The good news? You do have options.
My Simple DIY Natural Weed Killer Recipe
This is one of the easiest natural weed killer recipes you can make at home using just a few ingredients.
What You’ll Need
- 1 gallon of 30% vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dish soap (I use Dr. Bronnors unscented)
- 1 cup table salt (optional)
- A sprayer to apply it
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a large container or garden sprayer.
- Shake or stir thoroughly until combined.
- Spray directly onto weeds on a hot, sunny day.
- Make sure there’s no rain in the forecast for best results.
The vinegar helps dry out the weeds, the dish soap helps the mixture stick to the plant, and the salt can increase effectiveness for stubborn areas.
A Few Important Tips
- This mixture works best on sunny days with high heat.
- Avoid spraying plants or grass you want to keep — this mixture doesn’t discriminate.
- Be cautious using salt in garden beds, since too much can affect soil quality over time.
- Reapply as needed for tougher weeds.
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