Borax for flea control is a popular method for fighting flea infestations. In this guide, we shall study in brief what borax is and how it can be used to kill fleas inside the homes safely. Each case of a flea infestation is different based on its severity. However, most cases ranging from small infestations to large ones can be successfully treated using Borax.
In case you are wondering what Borax is, check this out.
Before we discuss how to use borax for killing fleas safely, we will consider the difference between Borax and boric acid powders. Many pet owners use the two terms interchangeably but it is essential to know which the safer and natural flea control solution is. Secondly, we shall also consider some safety precautions to follow when using Borax to kill fleas safely.
Difference between Borax and boric acid powders
Borax and boric acid powders are both derivatives of boron. In Asian countries, artisans have been using the borax since centuries for welding, brazing and glazing artwork and pottery as well as in drugs and pharmaceuticals. Borax is a mild antiseptic and fungicide and has also been used as eyewash for treating eye infections.
There is a difference between Boron, Borate, Boric acid and Borax. Boron is an element that exists in nature. Borax is a combination of sodium, boron and oxygen and can be mined from the earth in its crude form. Boric acid is obtained from borax; it is a crystalline derivative obtained by mixing borax with an acid.
Both boric acid and borax are used for pest control. However, if you are looking for a safer and greener method of killing fleas, then Borax is a better and a safer option.
Does Borax effectively and naturally eliminate fleas?
Borax is known to be highly effective in killing fleas. It is odorless and is available readily in powdered form. It is non toxic to human skin but when fleas come in contact with it, they get severely dehydrated. Additionally, the razor sharp crystalline structure of the powder at its microscopic level also shreds the fleas’ innards, making it highly effective in killing flea larvae and adult fleas as well.
Borax is naturally derived from Boron and is a lot less toxic than many of the harmful chemical products available for flea control.
Precautions and drawbacks of using Borax for natural flea control.
As with any other natural flea control product, some precautions are necessary when using borax.
- Pregnant women must stay away from borax.
- Borax is not safe to be used around cats and is known to cause severe breathing problems in them.
- Borax effectively treats adult fleas and flea larvae; however, it is not known to eliminate flea eggs. Thus, re-infestation is likely and one needs to reapply the product again after a few weeks.
- Borax powders should be kept away from moisture as it can render the product ineffective. Wet carpets can also get permanently discolored or damaged if borax is used on them.
- Borax powder must never be used directly on the pets’ body for killing fleas.
- Borax should not be used near household plants as it can cause toxicity.
- Pet owners with young children and babies should use borax powder with extreme caution as ingestion in large quantities has been known to cause severe health complications, skin allergies etc.
How to use Borax safely for killing fleas safely in four steps
Before using borax for flea control inside homes, it is important to follow the safety precautions mentioned above. Always buy Borax from a reputable vendor (you can get it here).
Step 1: Vacuum the carpets thoroughly.
Step 2: Sprinkle the borax powder liberally in areas of major flea infestation. You can use a stiff brush to ensure that the powder penetrates deep in the carpets.
Step 3: Leave the borax on the carpet for at least 6 hours or even up to 2 days-longer the better. Do not allow kids and pets on the treated areas during this time.
Step 4: Vacuum the carpet thoroughly. Dispose the vacuum bags outside to prevent larvae and eggs from coming back inside the home.
Naturally, this method must be used only for eliminating fleas in the pet’s environment. For killing fleas on the pets, it is best to use a suitable product as recommended by the vet. As stated above, borax should not be used directly on the pet’s coat for killing fleas on it.
