How to Get Rid of Fleas Using Borax

Pets can bring unwelcome visitors to your home, both indoors and out.

Few pests cause more annoyance and discomfort than fleas. They bite repeatedly, reproduce at an alarming rate and are very difficult to get rid of. There are a host of products available to kill fleas, but many of them are made of harsh chemicals that can wreak havoc when used in the home. Borax is mineral-based and works by drying out the flea larvae, which prevents them from maturing and eventually ends the life cycle.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum
• Cleaning cloth
• Borax
• Broom
• Diatomaceous earth
• Salt
• Garden hose

Instructions

Using Borax to Eliminate Fleas Indoors

1. Clear the affected area of all clutter. Vacuum the floors and wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth.

2. Sprinkle the borax over the affected area, paying special attention to nooks and crannies. Use a broom to sweep carpeted floors, which will help ensure that the borax penetrates the fibers well. Allow the borax to remain in place overnight.

3. Vacuum the treated area thoroughly the next day.

4. Dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag and repeat the process again in two weeks if any fleas remain.

Using Borax to Eliminate Fleas Outdoors

1. Shut off your sprinkler system.

2. Prepare a mixture that consists of two parts diatomaceous earth, two parts borax and one part salt. The exact amount needed will depend upon the size of your yard, but prepare enough to cover the entire affected area.

3. Broadcast the mixture over the yard, adding more to areas that are heavily infested.

4. Spray down the treated areas with a garden hose three or four days later.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to treat the areas beneath furniture and under upholstery cushions.

• Do not allow pets or young children to enter the treated areas until the borax has been vacuumed away.

References

• The Daily Puppy: Borax to Get Rid of Fleas
• K9 Web: Fleas and Ticks; Cindy Moore
• Clemson University Extension: Less Toxic Insecticides; Karen Russ; August 2005