Oops. need an image.

if you're talking about aphids, squishing works very well.

If spraying, use a harsh water spray to blast them off.

If you want a soapy-formula, use one of the brands of insecticidal soap according to directions.

Your homemade brew is likely to damage your plants.

Thank you very much!

And Jean, you're right - I had tried the baking soda mixed with water (had seen it on YouTube) and today there were slight light brown areas on the leaves. I quickly rinsed with water. I hope I didn't do more damage. At least there are no more bugs! I am a tomato newbie. Hopefully I will learn quickly. Thanks again. What about the timing of treating bug issues this - is it better to do at the end of day when there is less sun?

Here's some research-based info for growing tomatoes:

http://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1957/51834/ec1333.pdf

Likely your county's Extension Service has a pub for your region.

To locate that office, use this interactive map:

http://npic.orst.edu/pest/countyext.htm