As temperatures drop during winter in the UK, homes often become a refuge for various small insects seeking warmth and shelter. This seasonal migration indoors can lead to increased encounters with pests like ants, cockroaches, silverfish, and others that are generally not as visible during warmer months. Winter heating and cozy indoor environments can attract these insects, making it essential to have effective control methods ready.
Two highly effective and economical solutions for winter pest control are boric acid and borax. These natural, low-toxicity options can help manage a variety of crawling pests that come indoors seeking warmth, all without the need for harsh chemicals. In this guide, we’ll explore which insects boric acid and borax control best, as well as specific application techniques and recommended dosages.
Why Use Boric Acid and Borax for Pest Control?
Both boric acid and borax (sodium borate) are naturally occurring minerals that act as powerful desiccants and stomach poisons for insects. Here’s how they work:
- Desiccant Action: Both boric acid and borax can dry out the exoskeletons of insects, leading to dehydration and eventual death.
- Ingested Poison: When insects groom themselves, they ingest the powder, which disrupts their digestive system and kills them.
Their efficacy, low cost, and natural origins make boric acid and borax ideal for home pest control.
Which Insects Can Boric Acid and Borax Effectively Control?
Boric acid and borax are particularly useful against the following insects:
- Ants
- Cockroaches
- Silverfish
- Fleas
- Bed Bugs
- Termites
- Spiders
- Centipedes and Millipedes
Below, we’ll dive into each insect type with detailed examples of how to apply boric acid and borax, including specific gram measurements for optimal results.
1. Controlling Ants with Boric Acid and Borax
Ants are drawn to sugar and starch, making them highly susceptible to baited borax or boric acid mixtures.
- Application Example: Mix 10 grams of borax with 20 grams of sugar. Place small amounts of this mixture on small dishes or pieces of cardboard in areas where you notice ant trails, such as near windowsills, doors, and under sinks.
- Instructions: Refresh bait every 2–3 days as needed. Worker ants will take the bait back to their colony, spreading it to other ants and effectively controlling the infestation over time.
Tip: Use a thin layer rather than a large pile, as ants may avoid visible clumps.
2. Cockroaches: Using Boric Acid and Borax for Effective Control
Cockroaches are some of the most resilient household pests, but boric acid can be highly effective against them.
- Application Example: Sprinkle 5 grams of boric acid powder in a light layer along the backs of cabinets, under sinks, behind appliances, and in cracks and crevices where cockroaches may hide.
- Instructions: Leave the boric acid undisturbed in these areas, as cockroaches will walk through it, and it will stick to their legs and bodies. When they groom themselves, they ingest the powder, leading to death.
Tip: Avoid large piles as cockroaches are skilled at avoiding visible dangers; a fine dusting works best.
3. Getting Rid of Silverfish with Boric Acid and Borax
Silverfish are attracted to starchy materials, making them an ideal target for boric acid and borax applications.
- Application Example: Prepare a mixture with 15 grams of boric acid and 15 grams of cornstarch. Spread this mixture in dark, damp areas where silverfish are often found, such as near bathroom baseboards, under sinks, or in storage closets.
- Instructions: Reapply as needed every couple of weeks, especially after vacuuming or cleaning.
Tip: Silverfish are nocturnal, so nighttime application may yield the best results.
4. Flea Control with Boric Acid and Borax
Fleas can be controlled by applying borax directly to carpets, pet bedding, and upholstery.
- Application Example: Lightly sprinkle 30 grams of borax across carpets, focusing on areas where pets sleep. After application, brush the borax into the carpet fibers using a broom.
- Instructions: Allow the borax to sit for 24 hours, then thoroughly vacuum the area to remove dead fleas and excess borax.
Tip: For ongoing flea control, repeat this application every two weeks.
5. Using Boric Acid for Bed Bugs
While boric acid isn’t a standalone solution for bed bugs, it can be a supplementary measure for deterring their spread.
- Application Example: Sprinkle 5–10 grams of boric acid powder along baseboards, behind bed frames, and in crevices where bed bugs might travel.
- Instructions: Leave the powder undisturbed, as bed bugs may crawl through it, leading to dehydration. This method works best when combined with other treatments.
Tip: Do not rely solely on boric acid for bed bugs; professional treatments may be necessary for severe infestations.
6. Preventing Termite Damage with Boric Acid
Boric acid can be used as a wood treatment to prevent termite damage.
- Application Example: Dissolve 100 grams of boric acid in 1 liter of water, then spray or paint this solution onto wood surfaces.
- Instructions: Allow treated wood to dry before bringing it indoors. This treatment helps deter termites by making the wood unappealing.
Tip: Reapply annually or after heavy rains, as boric acid can wash off.
7. Deterring Spiders with Boric Acid
While spiders are less susceptible to boric acid than other insects, they can be deterred from entering your home.
- Application Example: Sprinkle 5 grams of boric acid powder along window sills, door thresholds, and in corners where spiders may enter or set up webs.
- Instructions: Reapply monthly, especially if you notice increased spider activity.
Tip: Pair boric acid with essential oil sprays (like peppermint oil) for added deterrence.
8. Managing Centipedes and Millipedes with Boric Acid and Borax
Centipedes and millipedes are not primary targets, but they can be controlled with boric acid in humid areas of the home.
- Application Example: Lightly dust 10 grams of boric acid in basement corners, under sinks, and other moist areas where centipedes and millipedes might hide.
- Instructions: Allow the boric acid to sit, as it will act as a desiccant, drying out and deterring these pests.
Tip: For ongoing control, run a dehumidifier to reduce moisture, as centipedes and millipedes thrive in humid environments.
Safety Precautions When Using Boric Acid and Borax
While boric acid and borax are low in toxicity for humans and pets, they should be used with caution:
- Keep Away from Children and Pets: Place boric acid or borax only in areas inaccessible to pets and children, as ingestion can be harmful.
- Use Gloves: Wear gloves during application to avoid skin irritation.
- Avoid Inhalation: Apply boric acid and borax in well-ventilated areas, and avoid inhaling the dust.
Final Thoughts
Boric acid and borax are powerful, economical options for household pest control, particularly for winter insects looking for warmth. With targeted applications and correct dosages, these natural insecticides can keep your home insect-free without the need for harsher chemicals. From ants and cockroaches to fleas and silverfish, these treatments offer a safe, long-lasting solution for many common household pests.
Where to Buy Boric Acid and Borax for Pest Control in the UK
If you’re looking for high-quality boric acid and borax to tackle winter pest problems, one of the best sources in the UK is HD Chemicals. As a trusted and reputable supplier, HD Chemicals provides premium-quality products that are ideal for safe and effective home pest control.
Why Choose HD Chemicals?
Here’s why HD Chemicals stands out as the top choice for purchasing boric acid and borax in the UK:
- High-Quality Products: HD Chemicals offers premium-grade boric acid and borax, ensuring maximum efficacy in controlling pests.
- Fast Shipping: HD Chemicals is known for its quick and reliable delivery, so you can tackle your pest issues promptly without waiting for extended shipping times.
- Reputable Supplier: With a solid reputation as one of the best chemical suppliers in the UK, HD Chemicals is trusted by both homeowners and professionals for providing safe, effective chemical products.
How to Order
Visit the HD Chemicals online store to browse their selection of boric acid and borax, along with other pest control supplies. Their user-friendly website makes it easy to find the right products for your needs, with clear descriptions, application guidance, and secure payment options. Whether you’re new to pest control or looking for a reliable source to restock your supplies, HD Chemicals offers the quality and reliability needed to get the job done right.
By choosing HD Chemicals, you’re not only getting quality boric acid and borax but also the assurance of quick delivery and dependable customer service, making it the best place to purchase these essential pest control products in the UK.