Does Borax Get Rid of Fleas

Does Borax get rid of fleas? Borax is often listed as a less hazardous alternative to chemical insecticides. Borax is a naturally occurring mineral that is used as a laundry aid, to balance pool water and in industrial processes.

Does Borax Get Rid Of Fleas In Your Home?
Borax is a white, powdery mineral that contains boric acid. Although borax is sold primarily as a laundry aid, it is often listed as an insecticide. In fact, borax is an effective way to kill fleas, particularly in infested carpets. The following information will help you understand how borax works to kill fleas and how to use it safely and effectively:

• I need a drink. The boric acid in borax breaks down the waxy covering (called the cuticle) on the exoskeleton of fleas. Once this protective coating is removed, fleas quickly dehydrate and die. There is also some evidence that boric acid works as a stomach poison when ingested by fleas.
• Where can I get it? Borax is typically located in the laundry or detergent section of most grocery stores. Borax is sold in powdered form, usually in a box.
• Start clean. Before applying borax, vacuum your carpets thoroughly to remove as many adults, eggs and larvae as possible. Vacuuming also raises the fibers of your carpet, allowing the borax to penetrate deeper. Remove the bag from your carpet and seal it in a plastic bag before putting it outside in the trash.
• Safety first. Although borax has a low toxicity, it never hurts to be cautious. Wear disposable rubber gloves while you work and old shoes that can be thrown in the wash when you're done. Keep pets and small children off the carpets while the carpets are being treated.
• Powdered death. To apply borax to your carpets, sprinkle one to two cups onto a 10' x 10' area. Use an old saltshaker or other disposable method to distribute the borax over a wide area. Be sure to get some into corners, cracks and under furniture. Use an old broom to work the powder down into the carpet.
• Take a break. Allow the borax to sit on the carpet for at least a day. A heavy infestation of fleas may require that the powder be left on for three or more days. Be sure to keep pets and small children off the carpets while the borax is in place.
• Clean up. Thoroughly vacuum your treated carpets to remove the borax and the dead fleas. You may have to repeat this process a few times over the course of several weeks to break the fleas' reproductive cycle.