How to Use Boric Acid As a Disinfectant

Boric acid is commonly derived from boron, which is found in many of the foods we eat.

Boric acid is a common disinfectant and has been used as an antiseptic in surgery as far back as the late 19th century. Boric acid is usually found in powdered form and is dissolved in water or saline solution for use as a home cleaner, eye wash, topical disinfectant, flame retardant and even insecticide. However, boric acid can also be very dangerous if ingested, and should be kept out of reach of children and from pets.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Goggles
• Clean cloth or cotton applicator

Instructions

Surfaces

1. Determine what you will disinfect and what mixture will be best for the job. Put on your goggles and your gloves. For counter surfaces and sinks, mix boric acid or products like borax in water as directed on the package. Soak clean cloth in boric acid solution.

2. Wipe down the area with regular household cleaner to remove any grease, grime or food that may impede disinfection with boric acid. Disinfectant is used mainly to eliminate harmful bacteria, and its ability to do so increases when used on a clean surface.

3. Remove the clean cloth from the boric acid solution and wipe down the area to disinfect. Rinse the cloth out in running water and put back into boric acid solution. Wring out the cloth and continue to disinfect the area until it is clean.

Skin

1. Decide which disinfectant ointment containing boric acid you want to use to clean the area around a cut or abrasion. Most ointments are easier to apply with a cotton swab or applicator than a clean cloth. If using boric acid in a water-based solution, you can pour the solution over the wound and clean gently with a clean cloth.

2. Clean the cut or abrasion with soap and water and remove dirt or rocks that may have entered the wound, if possible. Apply boric acid ointment to a cotton applicator or swab, and then apply the ointment to the wound.

3. Wrap the wound in a bandage or in clean gauze. If the wound is serious, wrap the wound and head to your nearest emergency room or health center and seek professional assistance.

4. Clean beneath the bandage and replace bandage every day. Use disinfectant boric acid solution or ointment before applying a new bandage.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep boric acid and other cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

References

• Clinical Microbiology Reviews: Antiseptics and Disinfectants: Activity, Action and Resistance
• WSPPN: Safe and Effective Disinfecting Fact Sheet
• NatBat: What is Boric Acid?
• Types of Bacteria: How Do Disinfectants and Antiseptics Work