Boric Acid Flea Treatment

Boric acid is commonly used as a flea treatment when these pests invade your home. Fleas are carried into the home by the family pets and can be found in the carpet, furniture and other surfaces. Treating your cat or dog will not rid your home of these pests. The entire house will need to be treated. Commercial applications of pesticdes are effective but they can be toxic to humans and animals. Boric acid is the least toxic pest management strategy.

  1. Identification

    • Boric acid, or boron, is a naturally occurring compound. It is found in soil, water and food as well as in commercial products such as laundry detergent, makeup and skin and hair products. Boric acid is also used for its insecticidal, fungicidal and herbal properties.

    Significance

    • As a flea treatment, boric acid is use to treat areas around the home that may have fleas. Fleas reproduce quickly, and one flea can become many in a relatively short period of time. They can jump up to 6 feet, so they quickly can spread throughout the home. Pesticides can be toxic to humans and animals, according to the Beyond Pesticides website, and a safer alternative is boric acid.

    Function

    • Boric acid is effective against fleas because it kills the larvae and eggs. According to All-Pets-Info.com, it is effective against adult fleas because it is a desiccant, or drying agent. It removes the moisture in the flea and causes severe dehydration and death.

    Application

    • Boric acid is applied to the surfaces to the home. It can be sprinkled on all surfaces such as carpet and furniture, where fleas hide. All carpeting and furniture should be vacuumed before it is applied. This will remove all dust and dirt and ensure that the boric acid can reach the fleas. On carpets, it should be sprinkled over the entire surface. It can be brushed into the carpet fibers using a broom. For furniture, the same process is followed and a small hand broom or brush is use to push the powder into crevices where the fleas can hide. These surfaces cannot be vacuumed for 24 to 48 hours, allowing the treatment to kill the larvae, eggs and adult fleas. Once the floor is vacuumed, vacuum bags should be removed and immediately discarded outside the home. Boric acid is effective for up to a year, so re-application is not necessary.

    Warning

    • According to All-Pets-Info.com, mild irritation of the skin, eyes, nose and throat can occur. Take precautions when using boric acid and keep it away from children and animals.