Quck answer
Borax can be effective in eliminating certain insects, such as ants, cockroaches, and silverfish. It works by interfering with their digestive systems and causing dehydration. To use borax for insect control, mix it with sugar or a sweet bait to attract the insects. Place the mixture in areas where the pests are commonly found. However, it is important to note that borax can be toxic to humans and pets if ingested in large amounts. Therefore, it should be used with caution, keeping it out of reach of children and pets. It is also advisable to consult a professional pest control service for severe infestations.
When your house becomes infested with ants or cockroaches, you would want a quick solution. Borax has been suggested as a simple homemade remedy for eliminating unwanted insects, but can borax really get rid of insects? Unfortunately, despite being a popular household item, borax is more suitable for cleaning rather than for effectively eliminating pests.
Tip
If you want to eradicate an invasion of ants or cockroaches in your home, it is recommended to use boric acid instead of borax as a homemade pesticide solution.
What is the Distinction Between Borax and Boric Acid?
Borax and boric acid are often mistaken for one another because they are both derived from the chemical compound known as boron, but they are two distinct products. Borax, also referred to as sodium tetraborate, is most commonly used as a cleaning agent in laundry detergent or for stain removal. Borax is often promoted as a natural cleaning solution. However, it is still toxic to humans and pets if ingested and can cause eye irritation, nausea, skin rash, and vomiting in some individuals if they inhale it or come into contact with it.
On the other hand, boric acid is primarily utilized as a pesticide to exterminate ants, cockroaches, and most arthropods that groom themselves. It can also be used as an herbicide against molds and fungi. Boric acid is available in liquid, powder, and tablet forms. It can also be found in commercially sold insect traps and repellents.
How Should You Use Boric Acid for Pest Control?
Boric acid acts as a poison for ants and cockroaches when they ingest it or when it damages their exoskeleton upon contact. Often, pests become coated with boric acid when they walk over it, and they end up ingesting it while cleaning themselves afterward. Homemade bait traps are also commonly used to attract ants and cockroaches to the boric acid.
To entice ants, you can mix boric acid with sugar to create a trap. Combine 1 teaspoon of boric acid and 3 tablespoons of white sugar in a 2-cup liquid measuring cup. Fill the measuring cup with warm water up to the 1 3/4 line and stir the mixture. Pour the mixture into small containers with a cotton ball and place them in areas with high ant activity in your home.
If you are seeking a quick solution, boric acid may not be the best choice as it takes a few days to show results. It needs time to accumulate in the system of the unwanted invaders to poison them effectively.
How to Handle Boric Acid Safely
Although boric acid is a natural component with a low level of toxicity, mishandling or ingestion can still cause problems and be hazardous. If you are using boric acid as a pesticide around your home, keep pets and children away from the treated area to avoid contact. Do not place boric acid near your pet’s food and water bowls or on any surface that may come into contact with food.
For optimal protection, make sure to wear gloves and safety glasses when handling boric acid. If a human or pet in your household ingests boric acid, call poison control at (800) 222-1222 for further guidance.
