Household pests can be extremely bothersome, and if you’ve ever dealt with an ant or roach problem, you know just how hard it can be to keep your home clean and pest-free. One of the simplest yet highly effective ways to tackle this issue involves using borax, wax paper, and placing it strategically under your fridge. Let’s dive into why this old-school remedy is making a comeback and how it can help keep your home free of those pesky invaders.

The Power of Borax

Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral widely used in cleaning products, laundry detergents, and even insecticides. It stands out for its fantastic pest control properties, making it a favorite among homeowners who prefer to avoid harsh chemicals. But what makes borax so effective against ants and cockroaches?

How Borax Works

Borax acts as a stomach poison for ants and cockroaches. When these pests ingest borax, it disrupts their digestive systems, eventually leading to their demise. Besides, borax is abrasive to the insects’ exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate. What’s more, ants can carry borax back to their colonies, helping to eliminate the whole colony, not just the few ants you see marching around. This combination of poisoning and dehydration makes borax a potent tool for controlling pests.

Why Use Wax Paper?

Wax paper is perfect for spreading borax because it’s easy to handle and keeps the powder from coming into direct contact with surfaces that kids or pets might touch. With wax paper, you can spread a thin layer of borax and slide it under your fridge without any mess, making it an incredibly convenient method.

The Strategic Location: Under the Fridge

The area under your fridge is a hotspot for pests. It’s warm, occasionally moist, and often a collecting ground for food crumbs and spills—making it an attractive place for ants, roaches, and other insects. Placing borax under the fridge directly targets this high-traffic area, increasing the chances of pests coming into contact with the borax.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Borax and Wax Paper Under the Fridge

First, gather your materials: borax powder, wax paper, scissors, and a small spoon or cardboard to spread the borax.

Next, cut a piece of wax paper that’s large enough to fit the area under your fridge. Typically, a 12-inch by 12-inch square works well.

Then, sprinkle a thin layer of borax evenly across the wax paper. A tablespoon or two should be sufficient to cover the surface.

Carefully slide the wax paper under the fridge, making sure it’s positioned in a place where pests are likely to walk over it. Ensure the borax is spread out evenly and remains on the wax paper.

Check the wax paper periodically. If the borax gets dirty or wet, replace it with a fresh piece of wax paper and a new layer of borax.

Benefits of This Method

This method is non-toxic to humans and pets. While borax is dangerous to insects, it is relatively safe for humans and pets if used correctly. The wax paper helps prevent direct contact, further minimizing any risks.

It’s also cost-effective. Borax is a cheap solution compared to professional pest control services or store-bought insecticides.

Additionally, borax is environmentally friendly. Unlike many chemical pest control options, borax is a natural mineral and doesn’t have the same negative environmental effects as synthetic pesticides.

Moreover, borax is long-lasting. Once placed, it can stay effective for several months, providing ongoing pest control with little maintenance.

Safety Considerations

Although borax is generally safe, handle it with care. Keep the borax out of reach of children and pets to ensure they don’t come into direct contact with it. Always use gloves when handling borax and avoid inhaling the powder. Store borax in a sealed container, away from food and drink, in a dry, cool place.

Using borax on wax paper under your fridge is a straightforward, effective, and affordable way to handle pests at home. This method targets areas where pests are likely to be, offering a long-lasting solution without harsh chemicals. By understanding how borax works and following some basic safety guidelines, you can keep your home clean, safe, and free from unwelcome visitors.