How to Apply Boric Acid to Get Rid of Bugs in a Bathroom

Cockroaches are particularly susceptible to boric acid.

One method for controlling ants, cockroaches and other bugs in your bathroom is boric acid, a derivative of boron. This white powder works by slowly poisoning the bugs. As the insects walk through the powder, it clings to their bodies. Boric acid absorbs slowly by contact and the insects often ingest it when they clean themselves. Lighter applications of boric acid are more effective, because insects may avoid large piles of the substance.

Instructions

1. Shake the canister of boric acid powder gently to loosen it.

2. Open the canister and point the opening at areas where insects tend to congregate in your bathroom. Examples include behind a radiator, under the sink and along the wall.

3. Squeeze the canister gently to puff out a small amount of boric acid. Apply only a fine dusting of the powder to the selected areas. Wash your hands well after handling the substance.

4. Reapply the powder as needed. It may take up to 10 days to see a significant reduction in the pest population in your bathroom. If the area that is treated with boric acid becomes dirty, clean it and reapply the powder. Boric acid is less effective when it is coated with dirt or debris.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have trouble applying only a small amount of boric acid at a time, the canister might be too full. Empty out about a third of the container to create an airspace at the top.

• Boric acid may be harmful to children, pets and plants.

References

• The University of Kentucky; Cockroach Elimination; Mike Potter
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Is There an Insecticide I Can Use in My Home That is Considered Environmentally Safe?

Resources

• National Cotton Batting Institute: What is Boric Acid?
• Clemson Cooperative Extension; Less Toxic Insecticides; Karen Russ; August 2005