|
Can't control a roach
infestation?
Boric
Acid - The Best Roach Killer
by
Arthur
Heyer
President
Extensions For Independence
Back
to "Tips of Knowledge,..."
Remember: for roach control, control the infestation without
using insecticides as roach control to control roaches.
Forget about insecticides. None that I know works completely. You get
infested again and again with only days of rest. They also stink, and
worse of all: they poison you and your children, and your pets too.
Not quickly as it kills the small insects, but eventually when you get
cancer and wonder why?. Remember: for roach control, control the infestation without
using insecticides as roach control to control roaches.
Boric Acid works, and very well. Remember: for
roach control, control the infestation without using insecticides as roach
control to control roaches.
Boric acid is a common product known since the 1700s, generally used as an
antiseptic - not to be put in the mouth. It was perhaps not intended
for killing roaches,...but it does it, and it
works like miracle! Remember: for roach control, control the
infestation without using insecticides as roach control to ontrol roaches.
How does it work?
Remember: for roach control, control the infestation without
using insecticides as roach control to control roaches.
I don't know, but here is a possible explanation: the roaches
actually seem to like it. They eat from it and they don't die immediately,
instead they go back to their nests, where they deposit some of the
chemical powder they happen to carry on their legs, and spread it all over
their nest where their eggs are. When the eggs hatch, it's this killer
"food" the ofsprings first find, they
eat from it, and that's it: they don't even have time alive to get out of
their nest. Two weeks later, no more roaches, not even a trace of them,
because they seem to choose their nests to dying, or do they eat each
other? A theory is that roaches constipate and die of
that. Remember: for roach control, control the
infestation without using insecticides as roach control to control roaches.
Whatever strange it may be, the strangest thing is that after 200 years or
so this chemical has been around, not too many people seem to know of its
miracle application. Or is it that people don't generally believe
anything which is not "properly" advertised? Of
course it is not advertised. Nobody could become rich selling boric
acid; it is so cheap!, and besides, it
cannot be patented... after 200 years? Remember:
for roach control, control the infestation without using insecticides as
roach control to control roaches.
Not all Boric Acid seems to work well for killing roaches. I have found one
which works very well, and I buy it at Fedco
stores. Here is the print from the label:
McKesson
BORIC ACID Powder NF
distributed
by: Mckesson Laboratories
Division
of Mckesson Corporation
Dublin,
CA 94566
Remember: for roach control, control the
infestation without using insecticides as roach control to control roaches.
NEWEST INFO: (condensed from feedback e-mails below. Click on link, or
use 'Find' for complete text.)Remember:
for roach control, control the infestation without using insecticides as
roach control to control roaches.
Aug 17, 2007: The Environmental
Protection Agency has established that boric acid is benign, and not more
toxic than common table salt. Read more: Let#45
(very informative).Remember:
for roach control, control the infestation without using insecticides as
roach control to control roaches.
Dec 26, 2004/ I found a web page that addresses many of the questions on
how to use Boric acid to preserve wood and make it flame retardant, kill
roaches, fleas and termites, bugs, treat the sill plate to keep them out,
using propylene glycol and boric acid to stop 'dry rot' and more; Let#:36Remember: for
roach control, control the infestation without using insecticides as roach
control to control roaches.
June 06, 2002/HOW IT WORKS...they essentially "dehydrate"
to death.
Thus they can never build an immunity to
it. Let#:31
June 06, 2002/formula for increasing the effectiveness of boric acid. Let#:31
May 28, 2002: overnight results: "Lo and behold the very next day I
found a roach nearly dead on his back. Could this work that quickly? For
the first time I feel like I might win this war! No prisoners!
Sharon: Let#:28
Feb 24, 2002: HOW it works?: Let#:25
Dec 3, 2001: A revelation for many. Let#:24:
Quoting from it:
" and...THAT'S NOT ALL YET!! Wood
treated with boric acid is nearly impossible to burn."
Sept 17, 2001: a reader just wrote this:
The answers to many of the questions can be
found by going to www.ask.com
I have been fighting fleas. Details on how to use boric acid in
your home can also be found at the Ohio State University sitehttp://www.ag.ohio-state.edu/~ohioline/hyg-fact/2000/2081.html
(second to last paragraph on this web page) (Ref: Let#:22)
July 31, 2001: solution to eliminate ants using boric acid... (Ref: Let#20 )
May 23, 2001: a reader just wrote this:
In regards to your postings about BORIC acid - I,ve been using it for years to battle fleas in carpets.
THE #1 best way to buy this stuff is to buy an
everyday Cleaner:
20 MULE TEAM BORAX (Thus the name) The main ingredient is BORIC acid.
It works wonders, Pets dont get sick from it and
I have yet to feel any discomfort. I even allow my Niece and Nephews
to crawl around on it (NO PROBLEMS). Anyhow I thought your readers
may like to know this. (Ref: Let#:16)
March 12, 2000: A reader (below) wrote this: >And you might put this
info out to your readership: the best buy on boric acid powder is ....................... Ta da!......... Home Depot! $2.95 for a big pint(?) bottle. The best buy anywhere, by far!
(Ref: Let#:9)
You know, all kinds of chemicals which
don't work are being produced and sold as roach killers, only sacrificing
our environment with no short or long term benefit to anybody. On the
contrary, the use of insecticides is worsening the problem, as is the case
with all the other applications of insecticides: see, insecticides do not
exterminate insects, they only (temporarily) reduce their population by
killing the less resistant ones. Each new generation (of roaches, for
example) after each spray (of insecticide) is more resistant (to the
insecticide), and new more powerful insecticides are needed; that's why we
see that a certain product which worked in the past, doesn't seem to work
later on.
<>
Feedback
from readers:
47
informative e-letters received so far.
Date
of most recent one: Feb 6, 2009
Note:
> or nothing is (Reader)
REPLY: is (Arthur Heyer)
************************************************************************************
WE WELCOME YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS
(read about
it at the bottom of this page)
************************************************************************************
Let#:1
> On Thu, 23 Sep 1999 12:11:21 -0700
> "Michael Shen"
<cable11@earthlink.net> wrote:
>
> > To Whom It May Concern,
> >
> > I read your article on the effect of BORIC ACID on roaches and am
very
> > interested in using it. Do you know if they sell this stuff
in supermarkets
> > and also how exactly do you use it?
> >
> > Thanks for your time.
> >
REPLY: Try drug stores, and read my boric acid page again. I just added
useful
information at the bottom, which answers your second question.
Arthur Heyer
************************************************************************************
Let#:2
On Thu, 23 Sep 1999 23:50:36 -0400
Michael Manning <meandro@tiac.net> wrote:
> Hi,
>
> I came across your homepage while searching for information on boric
> acid. I too have tried it for roaches in the past but wasn't diligent
> with it and lately had noticed a rise in the numbers I had...so I went
> out and got a good sized bottle of it which recommended dusting it in
> the areas needed, and then pushing excess into cracks etc. Anyway, the
> reason I've been looking into it online is that I feel I must have
> breathed in a quantity of the dust today and my lungs feel very
shallow
> and a bit sore. I'm not finding mention of dangers anywhere, except
not
> to ingest it...I'm wondering if you have any further knowledge?
REPLY: Not at all, but it's good that you said it, so as to never spread
it that way. Otherwise, I have not had any report of discomfort from the
persons who have used it.
> Years ago there was something we could get in Chinatown here in
Boston
> called Chinese Chalk because it was sold in Chinatown and was used to
> kill roaches. It was a solid that came in sticks in a box, like chalk,
> and now I'm thinking that it must have been boric acid. Worked very
> well. They've outlawed the sale of it here, funny eh?
REPLY: The work of big chemical industry, surely. I tried the chalk, but
didn't like it as much. It was very specific, not generalized as the
powder, in the way it worked.
> Anyway, I hope this lung thing passes. Thanks for any information
or
> experience you could share.
REPLY: Trust it will pass, maybe by the time you read this. Thank you
for sharing also.
If you don't mind, I'd like to add this, your e-mail, to my page on
boric acid. If you don't mind, how would you like your name to read?
complete as is, or initials only
>
> Michael Manning
>
************************************************************************************
Let#:3
On Fri, 24 Sep 1999 22:39:10 -0400
Michael Manning <meandro@tiac.net> wrote:
> Thanks for the reply...the reaction I had to the boric acid powder
has more
> or less passed. It was a real tightening in the lungs and shallower
breathing
> than normal. A bit painful. I have since learned that there is a
degree of
> arsenic in the stuff and it is possible, though unlikely, to be
poisoned.
> Probably not fatally, but certainly sickened by it...
>
> It was something I won't do again. Even a simple dust guard like
painters use
> at times would have helped.
>
> You can use my mail and name as you like, Michael Manning is fine.
>
> Thanks again,
>
> Mike
>
************************************************************************************
Let#:4
On Sat, 25 Sep 1999 12:24:32 -0400
Michael Manning <meandro@tiac.net> wrote:
> Hi Arthur,
>
> I wanted to mention as a follow up that while I may have almost killed
> myself, I have never seen so many little cockroaches laying dead on
the
> floor, feet up....this stuff really works well if you are thorough. I
did a
> lot of caulking as well to seal off access. The troubling part in this
is
> that we have a newly remodeled kitchen and to start seeing so many so
soon
> was hard to take. I do have children so I wanted to avoid bombing or
other
> pesticide solutions. I used the boric acid at night so that it would
have
> settled by the time they were awake. Within two days I am seeing many
tiny
> ones dead, which tells me it is killing the new generation, as well as
many
> mature roaches that could be a year old. All in all a success. I'll
probably
> follow up every 3 months or so, and keep an eye on it...
> Thanks for your help,
>
> Mike
>
************************************************************************************
Let#:5
On Sat, 25 Sep 1999 17:08:26 -0400
Michael Manning <meandro@tiac.net> wrote:
> Arthur,
> When I first contacted you I had only seen the information on boric
acid and
> hadn't explored your site. I need to spend some time there before I
comment
> further. I can just say that I am a photographer and teacher and am
amazed at
> what I am seeing....
>
> Mike
>
************************************************************************************
Let#:6
On Sun, 10 Oct 1999 03:31:48 -0500
"Rigo Cisneros"
<someone@here.com> wrote:
> Boric acid does cause lung and respiratory discomfort. It can
even lead to kidney
> and liver failure. Look up the MSDS for and it will tell you
everything bad
> about it. Its one of the safer
insecticides though. Vet's recommend it for
> flea treatments on wood floors.
REPLY: Boric acid cannot be more toxic than most other chemicals which
are generally used and stored in the homes of most Americans. In my
opinion, boric acid deserves no more and no less precaution on its use and
storing than most chemicals or medications generally used and stored in
homes. I have used boric acid powder for many years (since 1980 or so),
about once or twice a year to keep my home free of roaches, with very basic
precautions, and not I or anybody around me has ever noticed any signs of
intoxication or allergic reaction.
When I was first introduced to boric acid as a roach controller, I was
told to use an artist brush to apply the
powder into corners and cracks behind furniture, stove, kitchen cabinets,
etc., out of the reach of children and/or pets. We didn't have a brush
handy, so we used a chip of wood, I remember; the next time it was
something else. The precaution is simple: keep children and pets away from
it, and don't swallow it, even when fit is also some
times used, in solution, as an antiseptic on eyes and as a mouth
wash.
************************************************************************************
Let#:7 (REMOVED)
************************************************************************************
Let#:8
On Tue, 30 Nov 1999 18:35:53 -0500
"Lawrence E. Johansen" <clblood@worldnet.att.net> wrote:
> Some of your readers wanted more information on boric acid. Here is
a link to
> a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) on boric acid.
>
> http://www.jtbaker.com/msds/b3696.htm
>
************************************************************************************
Let#:9
----- Original Message -----
From: <FRANKNAV1@aol.com>
To: <%20info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Monday, February 21, 2000 6:06 AM
Subject: Your article about boric acid powder
> My apartment has been invaded by roaches about 3 months ago and the
apartment
> building owner stated that although other apartments have reported the
> presence of roaches they cannot do anything in the building using
normal
> pesticides used by exterminators to eliminate roaches because a tenant
in the
> building has a sensitive allergy to pesticides and many other
fumes/odors and
> HUD regulations prevent using insecticides in the building due to her
> sensitivities. The rest of the tenants are outraged and threatening to
move
> out if something is not done about the roaches. I have been using
Roach
> motels/hotels with limited success but they just kept coming. When I
started
> using boric acid powder I started seeing a sudden increase in seeing
dead
> roaches, large and small laying around on their backs with little legs
> sticking straight up. It is starting to look like a roach suicide
party.
>
> And you might put this info out to your
readership: the best buy on boric
> acid powder is ....................... Ta da!......... Home Depot! $2.95 for
> a big pint(?) bottle. The best buy anywhere,
by far!
************************************************************************************
Let#:10
----- Original Message -----
From: <FRANKNAV1@aol.com>
To: <abheyer@hotmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 14, 2000 8:41 PM
Subject: Re: Your article about boric acid powder
> Arthur,
> Thanks for putting my article on your web site about the low cost of
boric
> acid powder at Home Depot. It really is a great buy! And thanks
for doing
> such a fine public service for roach control.
>
> Frank Navratil
>
************************************************************************************
Let#:11
----- Original Message -----
From: Sandie Mills <millss@mindspring.com>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Sunday, March 19, 2000 1:23 PM
Subject: boric acid
> Arthur,
>
> I was searching the web trying to find out some information on boric
acid
> and stumbled across your page. I must say that it is very
informative.
> When I was a child, we used boric acid solution to clean kittens eyes
that
> would be matted together with infection. A few years ago, I
heard or read
> somewhere, that if you had boric acid poured in with your footer, that
it
> would help repel insects from your home. I was hoping that by
searching on
> the web, that I may come across the same information because we are
looking
> to build in the next year or so and I do not like bugs :)
Do you know
> anything about having it poured in with the footer? Or would my
husband
> and I just dust everything as it is being constructed? Any and
all
> information you could give us, would be greatly appreciated :)
>
> Sincerely,
> Sandie
REPLY: Sandie, I don't have an answer to
either one of your questions. If you are not inpatient, someone who may
read this could know and give you an answer.
************************************************************************************
Let#:12
----- Original Message -----
From: <?>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Monday, March 20, 2000 12:35 PM
Subject: insecticide chalk / boric acid
> I was reading your discussion about boric acid and I have
> a couple of comments for you...
>
> My family moved to Florida 14 years ago, into a house which
> had been vacant for months and had become home to rather too
> many roaches. We put little piles of boric acid in corners
> and in the back of cabinets, and it was *extremely* effective.
> We haven't seen a roach in years, and that's saying something
> for South Florida, home of the extra-value-sized roach.
>
> As for the insecticide chalk, it is illegal now for a couple
> of reasons: it looks like regular chalk and children have been
> poisoned by eating it, and it is unregulated - the formula
> changes from batch to batch, and the packaging has lead in it.
> You can read more about it at
> http://www.ipm.iastate.edu/ipm/hortnews/1999/2-5-1999/badchalk.html
> and at
> http://www.fortworthgov.org/DEM/ecc_badchalk.htm
>
> You have a very interesting site; keep up the good work!
> Feel free to publish any part of this note that you want, but please
> don't publish my e-mail address. Thank you.
>
************************************************************************************
Let#:13
I have been searching the net today looking for information to
help me
combat the legions of Pharoah ants (grease ants,
sugar ants, etc) that
have been making my life interesting ( to say the
least) lately. In my
search for effective remedies I have discovered that boric acid is an
active ingredient in a few pest control products. This ultimately led
me to your site as I was researching boric acid and how to make my own
ant bait. I am glad that I found your informitive
page, as it has given
me a clue as to where I may buy boric acid locally ( we have a new Home
Depot here) and I hope to get some today from there.
I would like to add a home remedy of my own that I learned and used
about 15 years ago when I was doing summer work in Minnieapolis.
Taking
time from college in Montana, I wound up in Minnieapolis
and had an
apartment that was invaded with roaches. An old black woman in the
building finally took pity on the only poor
white boy in the building
and advised me that if I were to take a cucumber and smear it around the
edges, cracks and sills of the apt. that I would have an effective roach
repellant. I did, and it did. It did not kill the rooaches
but it
slowed them down and soon I no longer had to worry about moving land
mines in the dark. I still had a couple now and then, but it seemed
to
help as long as I continued to apply this treatment on a regular basis.
Also, in reading on boric acid I ran across a medical test for
carcenogines ( sorry dont haved the web page
handy) but it showed a
study that gave the results that boric acid was not cacinognic.
Thanks
steveow@mailcity.com
************************************************************************************
Let#:14
----- Original Message -----
From: Jeff Karlin
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Tuesday, February 13, 2001 12:29 PM
Subject: Boric Acid
Just wanted to add something about Boric acid. When manufacturers of EPS
( Expandable polystyrene or Styrofoam) make
insulation boards to put into homes, guess what it has in it. Boric acid.
The bugs eat it as they try to eat their way into your house.
************************************************************************************
Let#:15
----- Original Message -----
From: Lee
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2001 11:34 PM
Subject: Boric Acid
To whom it may concern:
Question to ask about boric acid, I have purchased this product at home
depot brand name Victor 100% boric then I checked the Net for MSDA what is
the truth? And with a serious infestation 5 years, how long will this
take?
I put it out yesterday in the kitchen I
don't see as many around the dog food.
Even a microwave don't seem to bother them.
Lee
REPLY: Lee, If you put it in all corners all over your house, in 2 weeks
you will not see one.
Arthur Heyer
************************************************************************************
Let#:16
----- Original Message -----
From: Joe
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Wednesday, May 23, 2001 10:09 AM
In regards to your postings about BORIC acid - I,ve been using it for years to battle fleas in
carpets. THE #1 best way to buy this stuff
is to buy an everyday Cleaner.
20 MULE TEAM BORAX (Thus the name) The main ingredient is BORIC
acid. It works wonders, Pets dont get sick
from it and I hav yet to feel any
discomfort. I even allow my Niece and Nephews to crawl around on it
(NO PROBLEMS). Anyhow I thought your readers may like to know this.
Thanks
Joe
************************************************************************************
Let#:17
----- Original Message -----
From: "Mandy oser"
<cathman2@hotmail.com>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Tuesday, May 29, 2001 7:54 AM
Subject: boric acid
> Great article on boric acid. Very informative. As I just
began using it
> this weekend I look forward to seeing its effect in the coming
weeks. I
> have a question for you regarding the application of boric acid.
I was a
> bit confused by the instructions (I bought Roach Prufe).
It says using a
> teaspoon, sprinkle liberally, pushing into cracks etc. and then
something to
> the effect that none should remain visible after applying it. I
guess my
> question would be is it ok that some remains visible along the
baseboards? I
> don't see how you can apply it liberally but then have it
disappear. I am
> concerned about inhaling it, as I mainly put it in the kitchen which
we use
> constantly. Any suggestions for appropriate application and
usage?
> Thank you very much!
> _________________________________________________________________
> Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com
>
>
REPLY: Dear????: I can understand why manufacturers tend to
exaggerate on their recommendations: they don't want to be liable. I have
never been (not a bit) that careful, and everything has been O.K. In two
weeks you will not see one roach, not again in at least 6 months! If you
ever see one again, just put more of the thing.
Arthur Heyer
************************************************************************************
Let#:18
----- Original Message -----
From: Mary Pat Orr
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2001 10:41 AM
Subject: Roach Control & Questions
I was looking on the net for a friend of mine (really) who has recently
been invaded with roaches. I told him I had heard of using Boric Acid
to eliminate the roaches, and found all the information and articles on
your site very informative. My friend went to a local store and purchased
Boric Acid, and his roach problem is history. I do have a question
for you.....Does Boric Acid work on eliminating Aisian
Lady Bugs? I live in Iowa and my boss lives along the Mississippi
River. All year long (and especially in the warmer months) he is bombarded
with Lady Bugs and nothing has seemed to control them. He has dogs
& cats, so he doesn't want to use any bombs or other sprays that may
harm him or his animals. I would appreciate your input as to the
effectiveness of Boric Acid and Asian Lady Bugs - Thank you!
REPLY: Mary?
I have no idea, but have posted your letter in case someone knows.
Regards,
Arthur Heyer
************************************************************************************
Let#:19
----- Original Message -----
From:
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2001 6:55 AM
Subject: Best Application for Boric Acid?
I have a horrible phobia (not an exaggeration) of cockroaches, and
in my new
apartment, I've just seen two in the past three days that have nearly
caused
me heart-attacks. Some years back, my parents battled a roach problem with
boric acid and were very successful, so it was the first thing that came to
mind. Found your website, which is really very informative - thank you. One
question that maybe you or someone else might be able to answer - what's
the
best way to apply it? I've been reading on your website that the powder
itself should be dusted in corner and in cracks and crevices (my apartment
building is very old and there are tons of those). When my parents used it
on a friend's advice, they had made a paste of the stuff and painted a
layer
of it on their baseboards. It didn't look too good but it certainly got rid
of the problem. Anyone know which is better?
Also, during my research on the net, I found a few exterminators' websites
that say boric acid is not good enough for most infestations. Obviously,
they would not admit to a solution that really works, without their
services
needed (!) but still, is there any basis to that?
Thanks again for all the info.,
Roohi
PS: If you'd like to put this email up on your website, feel free, but
please don't publish my email address.
************************************************************************************
Let#:20
----- Original Message -----
From: "ice berg" <blueiceberg@yahoo.com>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2001 12:59 PM
Subject: Tom - ant solution with boric acid
> Hello.
>
> I wanted to give a recommendation the the
readers of
> your boric acid web page to post.
> A solution to eliminate ants using boric acid that I
> learned from a colleague at work a few years ago:
> Get a used bottle top or tiny dixie
cup. Pour a
> teaspoon of boric acid, half teaspoon of plain sugar,
> and one teaspoon on warm water. Then mix the solution
> a bit and place near ant trails or near ant hives.
> The ants will take this the hive and queen where all
> will share and die within a couple of days at the
> most.
> My family, friends and I have been using this for the
> past five years. Try it, it really works!
>
> Tom
> Miami, Florida
> __________________________________________________
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Make international calls for as low as $.04/minute with Yahoo!
Messenger
> http://phonecard.yahoo.com/
>
REPLY: Tom,
A great tip if it works, which I will know when I have my next ant
infestation.... and I will certainly post it for others to know.
Thank you for your contribution.
Arthur Heyer
************************************************************************************
Let#:21
----- Original Message -----
From: <Filbettybasil@netscape.net>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Tuesday, August 14, 2001 1:51 PM
Subject: Bees
> I found your article on boric acid and roaches interesting, however
I am
having a problem with bees nesting in my siding on my house. The
pesticide
people said that they spray a powder in their that consists of
boric acid.
First they had said that they would be using diazinon
powder but then called
me back and said that, this was no longer produced/used.
I questioned it at
all because the bees have somehow been coming into the house, one or two a
day and wonder if they could get in, could not the powder also come
in. The
area is right next to my kitchen cupboards and that's where the bees come
in
also. So my biggest concern would be for this powder to also somehow
come
in and get in my cupboards. Got any safe ideas on bees. Thanks alot.
>
>
REPLY: If you suffer from allergies, I can understand your concern.
The risk you
are talking about has been discussed in more than one e-mail that make our
page on boric acid and roaches. Please read more of it. The answer you need
should be there. In general, I would no be that
concerned.
************************************************************************************
Let#:22
----- Original Message -----
From: qwert
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Monday, September 17, 2001 7:04 AM
Subject: Boric Acid Response
I found your site VERY helpful. The answers to
many of the questions can be found by going to www.ask.com
(which by the way is how I found you). Just type in 'boric acid'
and you'll find an extensive amount of info. Thanks for the time you
put into this site Mr. Heyer.
I have been fighting fleas. Details on how to use boric acid
in your home can also be found at the Ohio State University site http://www.ag.ohio-state.edu/~ohioline/hyg-fact/2000/2081.html
(second to last paragraph on this web page)
Yours,
Farm Folk
************************************************************************************
Let#:23
----- Original Message -----
From: Kit
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Monday, November 19, 2001 6:57 AM
Subject: how exactly do I make a paste with boric acid
Bless you a thousand times over for letting me know of a GOOD method to
combat the recent roach invasion in my bachelor apt. I read in letter #19
by Foohi or Roohi that
his/her parents made a paste of the boric acid and put it on their
baseboards. I don't have a huge amount of roaches (yet) but I also don't
have many cracks in my baseboards -- I caulked them well. And I'd like to
do a thorough job of roach-proofing. My bed's a
few feet from the door and the kitchen and I know they can sneak in
anywhere. So the paste along baseboards really appeal
to me. How much water to paste. I just realized I may be worrying about
details too much, that any amount of water that seems to make a suitable
paste would likely work, but I wouldn't mind feedback on this. Also, I've
heard from people who work in hardware stores that
you shouldn't mix boric acid with water, but such employees don't often
really know about things. Maybe I'm contemplating overkill -- you say a
small pile of boric acid in corners is plenty and yet.... Presently, I'm
about to spray, to chase them away while I caulk everywhere and leave boric
acid where I may. I'd really rather write short stories (sigh).
P.S. Indeed, I may have been over-reacting. I saw three baby roaches in
a short period about 3 days ago and probably missed seeing a great many
more but since then I haven't seen one roach. About six weeks ago some
roach baits containing 50% boric acid (DIE-iT)
were put down by my co-op's service. I saw about ten in all adult roaches
after that. Then more bait traps were put down about 6 days ago.
I talked with the service that put down the baits -- the Die-its,
incidentally I think they said were available only to commercial companies
-- and the service said mixing the boric acid powder with water would
render it ineffective as the powder asks like shards of glass that cut into
the roaches so as to kill them and adding water would disallow this. I
wonder if they mean adding water would make boric less effective. I would
still like to make a paste if that works to any useful degree at all. But
joy, oh joy, anyhow, as I have much confidence recently that I may not have
much of a roach problem -- given my confidence in boric acid, thanks to
you, dear chum, and some reassurrance from the
co-op service company plus the sealing of access points and boric acid
powdering that is the least I'm going to do. Although I seem roach free for
now, I'd still like to use the paste as it's possible roaches may get in
from other apartments -- I suspect my recent increase (usually I'd see a
1-3 a year AND kill them) is from some apartment beneath me (I'm on the top
floor) from which they get into my kitchen under the sink; I expects other traveller from there and really want to be effective
vs. such guests. So my earlier query about how to mix paste and its
effectiveness still applies.
Thanks so much for your prior and perhaps future help.
************************************************************************************
Let#:24
----- Original Message -----
From: <greenrick@webtv.net>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2001 10:22 AM
Subject: hope this is the right link...
> First off...this is a very nice site...thank you..
> Now regarding boric acid..MSDS gives
much precautionary info but
> basicly boric acid, unless intentionally
misused, is harmless. I've
> used it extensively with no real caution and no harm. I treated
every
> piece of wood in my house with it and I treat every piece of wood I
use
> on my Oregon coast piece of property, also. Fence boards and
all. I
> use it mixed in a 15% solution in water (3-4 cups powder to a gallon
of
> water). Once dry, it can be painted right over with no
problems. I
> spray the solution from a common all plastic garden sprayer (no metal
> parts). You can only mix what you can use in one session as it
> crystalizes in the sprayer tank, lines etc.
after a day or so. The
> sprayer must be rinsed after use or it will clog up. Roaches
aren't my
> problem here on the Oregon coast. That's about the only bug I
don't
> have to worry about. My purpose for use is other bugs.
Ants, carpenter
> ants, fleas, sow bugs and termites are the bugs we chase.
The boric
> acid solution has completely eliminated any worry about these bugs.
> They WILL NOT attack and damage this treated wood. They taste
it, carry
> it home and die. That's all good. End of bug
problem...BUT...that's
> not all. There's more benefits to the
use of boric acid. Wood
> saturated with it will not mold, mildew, decay or rot, wet or
> dry...AND... with NO environmentally damaging
side effects like other
> wood treatments. and...THAT'S NOT ALL
YET!! Wood treated with boric
> acid is nearly impossible to burn. If saturated well enough, it
won't
> even smoulder! Boric acid is what
cellulose insulation (blow in
> shredded newspaper) is treated with (by law) to prevent it from
burning.
> I buy my boric acid by the #25 bag from a chemical supply warehouse
for
> about $65 a bag plus shipping. Less for quantity. It's
been a couple
> of years since I restocked and don't
have the address handy but it can
> be found on the net. They supply pest control people with
chemicals and
> that's who (an organic pest control friend) I got the address from.
> Again....Thanks for your site. greenrick
************************************************************************************
Let#:25
----- Original Message -----
From: <beefalo@tularosa.net>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Thursday, February 21, 2002 3:33 PM
Subject: boric acid
> I just wanted to add a little something on how Boric acid
works. I am a biology major and we have been
studying the HOW boric acid works.
What happens is the acid blocks the trachea of the insects, which in turn
causes them to suffocate. This acid is a great tool at a great price
for any pest control of pests with a trachea. Ex. ants, silverfish,
and roaches. One more thing is that the more pesticides we try to use
on roaches the more resistant they will become. Roaches are no doubt
the best put together organism in the world. Good site.
>
>
> Download NeoPlanet at http://www.neoplanet.com
************************************************************************************
Let#:26
----- Original Message -----
From:
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Thursday, February 21, 2002 9:05 AM
Subject/Ref: roach ltr #16
20 Mule Team Borax is great, BUT the main
ingredient is NOT boric acid. it is Borax.
It can be a deterrent.
regular cleaning with it in kitchen and
bathroom, and use in laudry.
do NOT publish email address
Pat
************************************************************************************
Let#:27
----- Original Message -----
From:
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Monday, April 01, 2002 12:12 PM
Subject: Boric acid to control roach infestations
Wow! What an interesting forum for roach control. I live in Miami and
have spent years battling palmetto/water bugs (very large roaches). I
absolutely can't tolerate them. I live in a house that was built in 1941
and it is elevated (not slab). It is very difficult to control or eradicate
an infestation under these conditions (sub-tropic climate, old home,
elevated). I had a well known company come out for a
"Once-a-Year" pest control. They had to come out about 11 times
in one year! I even had my home tented--to no avail. Then I discovered
Boric acid. I had a company come out to "dust" my attic with
chemicals and it cost me 90 bucks--I said from now on I will dust it
myself---and began to research which chemicals would be good for this--and
I found Boric acid! I take the bottles and open them up and spray the
chemicals in my attic (I wear a dust mask too). I also put boric acid in my
electrical outlets--I just remove the covers and apply the product very
liberally. I also use Harris Famous Roach Tablets (they contain boric acid
with an added lure) in my cupboards. I break up the tablets a little so
they are "powdery" because I worry that if my nieces ever
happened upon a tablet, they might think it was a piece of candy. You don't
want to use too much lure because you don't want to draw bugs into your living
areas. Since I started taking matters into my own hand, I have seen an
incredible difference! Now once in a while I see a dead roach--a far better
sight than to see them scampering about! I hope I have been of some help.
Thank you. You may post this if you would like but please don't post my
email address.
Julie
************************************************************************************
Let#:28
----- Original Message -----
From:
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Tuesday, May 28, 2002 10:01 AM
Subject: Boric Acid for Roaches
Hello--love this website--I've been having on and off problems with
roaches for about 2 years and lately have been seeing about 2 a day. I HATE
ROACHES!!! Anyway, found this site and went right out and bought the Victor
brand at Home Depot for $2.95. After the kids went to bed I went right to
work; I applied along cracks (I had more than I realized) and under
cabinets near the floor, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, and in all
the corners. I also applied a little in drains but took care to brush it
all down the drain in case my cat got any ideas about jumping in there. I
used a small artist brush and poured it directly from the container into a
plastic baggy and it worked very well. I do have young children but I feel
very comfortable that they won't access these areas. Lo and behold the very
next day I found a roach nearly dead on his back. Could this work that
quickly? For the first time I feel like I might win this war! No
prisoners! Sharon
************************************************************************************
Let#:29
----- Original Message -----
From: Mary Cris Delaney
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Saturday, June 01, 2002 2:14 PM
I am wondering if anyone knows whether boric acid is less potent in
eliminating roaches if I mix it with water and "paint" with
it...It seems to me that it is safer to so it this way, since the powder
won't get into the air. (I have little kids.) However, maybe it
sticks to the roaches better if it is loose.
Also, I am a little afraid to put it by the microwave since it blows air
when it is cooking. Does anyone have experience with this?
Thanks.
MCD
************************************************************************************
Let#:30
----- Original Message -----
From: EamonGeorge@aol.com
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Thursday, June 06, 2002 8:37 PM
Subject: Boric Acid
Bravo! Today I turned 55 but yesterday the police visited my room
because the roaches had me so furious that I was cursing. A fire had caused
me to quickly move here and I was glad to get the room in March 2002, but
the infestation did not seriously begin until AFTER the building was
sprayed in the traditional manner(Never Again!). I
was also furious that I could not find any of the good old fashioned
"aromatic" roach motels on the market so after some prompting I
bought some Victor Roach Killing Powder(100% Boric
Acid). Already I am finding dead ones and the tide has turned. Boric Acid
carries the day!
I might add here that I am a single Grand Mal Epileptic
who has lived most of his life in rooming houses. In one instance a few
years ago, the exterminator knocked on my door to tell me it was time to
spray my room. I was in the middle of a Petite Mal Seizure and exhausted so
I asked, "Do you mind if I stay here?" thinking he had to go get
his gear. He was already in protective clothing. He said, "No, I don't
mind." He put on his mask and for about 5-10 minutes sprayed the
entire room(and me) with a white vaporous plume. I
could hardly see or breathe but being in a seizure I just sat there. I now
get the picture and congratulate you for this site. There are too many
persons: single, disabled, elderly or otherwise disadvantaged who are
literally preyed upon by meaningless extermination methods which do nothing
but spread poison harmful to humans and provide jobs for persons without
ethics. Anyway, I thank you for the assistance provided me here.
-Eamon George Nelson
************************************************************************************
Let#:31
----- Original Message -----
From: "Terry Tillman" <ttillman@nts-online.net>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 06, 2002 9:02 PM
Subject: Boric acid used as roach killer--
> I read your suppositions on why roaches die when they contact boric
> acid. As it was explained to me: Boric acid is an abrasive. The
insects
> get it into their leg joints (and any other area with moving parts)
> where it breaks the waxy protective coating that holds moisture in
their
> bodies. Once that happens, they essentially "dehydrate" to
death. Thus
> they can never build an immunity to it.
>
> I was once told a formula for
increasing the effectiveness of boric
> acid. I can't remember for certain, but I think it was 1 part boric, 1
> part sugar and 2 parts corn meal. Put into bottle caps and put into
> out-of-the-way places, but especially around water sources. (kitchens,
> bathrooms, laundry rooms, etc.) Replace once per year or more often if
> needed, and you'll have no roaches. We've used this for many years. If
> pets or children get into it, it won't hurt them.
>
> Terry Tillman
> -Lubbock-
************************************************************************************
Let#:32
----- Original Message -----
From: <houndman@onix.com>
To: <info@mouthstick.net>
Cc: <houndman@onix.com>
Sent: Saturday, June 08, 2002 6:39 AM
Subject: Boric Acid for killing roaches
>
> Couldn't find a way to post about experience using boric
acid to kill
> roaches but have been using it for Years. Got grossed out from them
all
> over in a military barracks in the south and apartments and got
worried
> about pesticides that only do part of the job.
>
> Vince F
>
************************************************************************************
Let#:33
----- Original Message -----
From: EamonGeorge@aol.com
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Sunday, June 09, 2002 7:47 PM
Subject: How Boric Acid Kills Roaches
hi-
I don't know either. But I would tend to go along
with the tracea-blocking cited in letter # 25. Dehydration(letter # 31) may be a factor also. I have
noticed a certain "stun-effect." Roaches on their backs but still
moving legs, roaches on walls too tired to move. I took a roach that had
been wiggling its antennas for two days in an unscented(darn)
roach motel I had baited with chocolate(not very effective). This roach who had been actively wiggling his antennas stopped the
instant that I gave him a squirt of Boric Acid. Instantaneously dead.
I live in a first floor room next to a courtyard where
the entire block(and more) leave their garbage in
dumpsters. The roaches crawl in under the door from the alley and under the
door to my room.Or used to. The day after I put
down Boric Acid(a thick line of it near my door) I
began to find dead roaches on the 3 steps outside my hallway door to the
alley. I hope some made it back to the dumpster. But since new loads of
garbage keep coming into the alley, my doorway will be lined with Boric
Acid.
Here's a good one: on Friday they tried to spray my room
again because I had earlier become so angry about roaches. But, holding a
container of Boric Acid, I refused to let them in the room and instead gave
the exterminator a copy of my letter # 30 to
this cite. i then said,
"Different Strokes..." and he agreed. Hmmm...I wonder if anyone
would object to my placing some Boric Acid powder in my own trash before I
throw it out.
-Eamon George Nelson
************************************************************************************
Let#:34
----- Original Message -----
From: Daniel
To: greenrick@webtv.net
Cc: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2002 10:23 PM
Subject: Boric acid on painted or treated wood
Thank you, greenrick, for your informative
letter #24 on the mouthstick site. I came across
the site several days ago doing a search non boric acid.
My home is in Brookings so I especially appreciated your comments on the
things boric acid can assist with other than roaches.
A friend asked me if the treating of her deck and wood shake roof, which
have had an application of preservative, would do any good. I have no idea
but thought that you might have some experience in this area or at least an
opinion. Is there anything you know about this use of the solution that you
are willing to share?
FWIW I found this site http://www.usachemical.com/boric-acid.htm
to have the lowest cost bulk price that I could find ... 50 pounds for $52.
+ shipping. The company is USA Chemical
(901.507.1400) in case that address doesn't work.
Incidentally, I got interested in boric acid from some comments a
contractor made about using it as an alternative for treatment of termites.
I will be looking forward to your reply.
TIA
Daniel
************************************************************************************
Let#:35
Regarding you news forum …http://www.mouthstick.net/tipsbits/tipsbits.htm…
on killing roaches, please post this web address. It identifies the
toxicity of Boric Acid. Less toxic then table salt, yet, still should
be treated with care.
http://www.biconet.com/crawlers/boricAcid.html
************************************************************************************
Let#:36
-----Original Message-----
From: tallrose@kc.rr.com [mailto:tallrose@kc.rr.com]
Sent: Sunday, December 26, 2004 6:17 AM
To: extensionsforindependence@yahoo.com
I found a web page that addresses many of the questions on how to use Boric
acid to preserve wood and make it flame retardant, kill roaches, fleas and
termites, bugs, treat the sill plate to keep them out, using propylene glycol
and boric acid to stop 'dry rot' and more;
http://alsnetbiz.com/homeimprovement/boric_acid.html
This page has recipes for home made versions of Tim-Bor
and Bora-Care
http://alsnetbiz.com/homeimprovement/homemade.html
For a Borate Roach Exterminating from Heloise go here;
http://www.geocities.com/~olelo/r-roach.html
The boric acid eyewash uses an extremely dilute solution of boric acid. The
powder if inhaled or ingested can cause some serious problems. With minor saftey precautions... ie,
wear a mask and goggles... it is safe. It is always a good idea to wear a
mask and goggles when working with any powders.
Thanks Arthur for hosting and maintaining this forum on Boric Acid. :-)
Please do post this message if you feel it will be helpful.
Warmly Yours,
Joyce P.
************************************************************************************
Let#:37
jfil@sbcglobal.net
Great website! I was looking for more effective methods of roach
control, most of the content I have tried, and it has been more or less
successful. My new apartment was infested when I moved in. My landlord had
the place sprayed, with little effect. I discovered boric acid, and applied
it liberally in places my grandchildren can't get into. (Do such places
really exist?) I have seen improvement, but they kept getting somewhere. I
bought a can of that expandable foam (which I learned from your site
contains boric acid) and filled all openings leading to commonly shared
walls, plumbing, drains etc. I even removed switchplates,
and outlet covers, and filled in those areas as well. The foam is flammable
when wet, turn off all circuit breakers before
attempting to fill in around them!!! Drying time varies with manufacturers, I waited about three hours before turning
power back on. This method has greatly reduced the numbers of roaches
entering my apartment. Although the next electrician may have a few choice
words for me!
Thanks for renewing my faith in boric acid, I still have a new bottle, I
think there is a corner or two I may have missed...
Add this to your site if you like,
Thanks again!
************************************************************************************
Let#:38
-----Original Message-----
From: sha76w3k@yahoo.com [mailto:sha76w3k@yahoo.com]
Sent: Jueves, 24 de Noviembre
de 2005 10:03 p.m.
To: extensionsforindependence@yahoo.com
Subject: [Bulk] Information Request
Shawanna Tart
sha76w3k@yahoo.com
571-331-2577
USA
I recently stumbled on to your website and read some of the
testimonies there and loved them. I logged on because I have a roach
problem in my apartment and like so many others they did not start to
really acumulate until after the exterminator
came. I thought they were supposed to help not just make them scatter
from apartment to apartment, anyway thank you for teaching me so much about
a low cost remedy since I am on a budget. Sincerely Shawanna in VA.
************************************************************************************
Let#:39
-----Original Message-----
From: eplummer@cebridge.net [mailto:eplummer@cebridge.net]
Sent: Martes, 18 de Julio de 2006 08:25 a.m.
To: extensionsforindependence@yahoo.com
Subject: Information Request
E. Plummer
eplummer@cebridge.net
USA
Hello, I had a roach problem and first thing I did was spray, Well it
was just a quick fix they came back after a few days. Then I read your
article about the boric acid and I'm here to tell you this stuff works.
After about 10 days they started going belly up literally. I lightly dusted
just as you instructed and it worked. It wasnt
easy, I spent the majority of the day clearing my cabinets to do it right
but it was worth it. I havent seen a roach now in
well over a month. Anyway I just wanted to thank you for the helpful
information.
************************************************************************************ Let#:40
REPLY: I don't know the unswer, but I'll post it in the site for you. (below)
Arthur
*********************************
Extensions for Independence
555 Saturn Blvd. #B-368
San Diego, CA 92154
Vce Mail/Fax: (866)632-7149
Email: ei1976001@mouthstick.net
URL: www.mouthstick.net
*********************************
----- Original Message -----
From: GypsyMoon822@aol.com
To: extensionsforindependence@yahoo.com
Sent: Friday, October 20, 2006 10:18 AM
Subject: Information Request
I came across your page today looking for
information about Boric Acid for roach control. I bought some of the
boric acid gel (looks like peanut butter) and I was just wondering if this
type is as effective as the powder kind? I have a young child and
pets so I'm a little leery about using the powdered type. Thanks in
advance for any response you could give.
S. Davis
Illinois
************************************************************************************
Let#:41
-----Original Message-----
From: Maggie Morth [mailto:m4morth@yahoo.com]
Sent: Lunes, 12 de Febrero
de 2007 01:16 p.m.
To: info@mouthstick.net
Subject: Forum on boric acid and roaches
This site is helpful, thanks for all the postings. I just bought a
co-op and in about a week found roach co-inhabitants. The building's
exterminator has been there twice and I guess the spraying riles them up,
draws them to the bait to kill them. But it's freaking me out.
I put down boric acid a couple days ago so it's too soon yet to tell.
My question is about interaction: will boric acid and Combat-style roach
disks cancel each other out? Exterminator said it's OK to put down
some boric acid too. Right now I'm just obsessed with eradicating them in
any/all ways but I want to be most effective.
It's so discouraging to finally purchase my own place and then get hit with
this. 20+ years in New York City and I've never had a roach problem.
The person I bought from never let the exterminator in, I've learned, and
it looks like cleaning was not a priority for him. Somebody please
tell me it'll get better!
Bummed out in Brookyn
P.S. I'm with Letter #23; I'd rather be writing short stories!!
************************************************************************************
Let#:42
Bappy,
Thanks for your letter. It came at the very right time: I was feeling
miserable with problems I can't solve for the moment. Your letter lifted my
spirit. I wrote the Boric Acid article from my heart several years ago.
Letters like yours remind me that I did the right thing... and you too.
Arthur Heyer
*********************************
Extensions for Independence
555 Saturn Blvd. #B-368
San Diego, CA 92154
Vce Mail/Fax: (866)632-7149
Email: ei1976001@mouthstick.net
URL: www.mouthstick.net
*********************************
-----Original Message-----
From: Masud Kabir
[mailto:bappym@hotmail.com]
Sent: Monday, May 28, 2007 4:04 AM
To: info@mouthstick.net
Subject:
Hi,
I had roach problem for about four years now. And try almost everything. I
had those pest control guy come in every month and also used to buy "Baygon" at least 2 bottles a week and spray them
every night. But they (Roach) were still in my Apartment.
And then I read your article about Boric Acid and for the last hope I tried
it and Bingo. It is almost 10 days now I have speed the Powder and make
some bait with it, now I can hardly see any roaches and I am sure after a
few days they all will die. Everyday they are
dying. Thank you so much for solving my one of the big problem. Thanks once
again.
Bappy
************************************************************************************
Let#:43
Reply:
Andrea,
From what I have read (at my own boric-acid site), and since to me
only a human child would be of real concern, I wouldn't worry too much.
Dogs are wiser than one thinks, and a little of that powder is not going to
kill it anyways. It's not cyanide or something of that nature. Exposure to
any regular insecticide would surely be much worse. Let me know when you no
longer see roaches in your house (about 2 weeks after your boric acid
application).
Arthur
*********************************
Extensions for Independence
555 Saturn Blvd. #B-368
San Diego, CA 92154
Vce Mail/Fax: (866)632-7149
Email: ei1976001@mouthstick.net
URL: www.mouthstick.net
*********************************
The Question:
-----Original Message-----
From: Andrea Scrivener [mailto:snickers1972@verizon.net]
Sent: Tuesday, June 26, 2007 9:22 PM
To: info@mouthstick.net
Subject: Boric Acid to kill roaches
Hi, i just came across your site about Boric Acid
to get rid of roaches. I purchased a washer from a lady and unfortunaltly with the washer i
also gained new"houseguests".
My question would be, is it harmful to housepets?
I have a little weinerdog (dachshund) and since
he is a lowrider im
afraid he will sniff out the acid since it will be on the ground i suppose. Thanks Andrea
************************************************************************************
Let#:44
-----Original Message-----
From: Paula Johnson [mailto:paulaj1331@hotmail.com]
Sent: Sunday, July 01, 2007 12:24 PM
To: info@mouthstick.net
Subject: Boric Acid - Recipes for Application
Thank you so much for your info on Boric Acid and Ants/Roaches. My
pantry is just infested with ants this year and I have a little Pekingese
(low to the ground like a dust mop and absorbent paws) who gets severe
diarrhea if there is any pesticide around him. We had to stop our
pesticide service, hence the ants. My husband is presently in transit
to Home Depot for some Boric Acid. (Ed: also available at any
veterinary, feed, or barn store)
Here is a recipe for Helpful Hints from Heloise, who also recommends using
Boric Acid.
Use equal parts of:
Boric Acid powder
Sugar
Cornmeal or Flour
Put the mixture into lids or small containers for placement, or use a small
catsup bottle to poof the mixture into cracks and crevices.
Thank you for your work spreading healthy alternatives in a toxic
environment.
Paula
Las Vegas, NV
************************************************************************************
Let#:45
-----Original Message-----
From: Jamie Krasnoo [mailto:jkrasnoo@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2007 10:53 AM
To: info@mouthstick.net
Subject: Boric Acid
Arthur,
Thanks for your article on the use of Boric Acid to combat pests like
the common roach. I found your article while researching for a way to
eradicate the infestation of German Cockroach in the apartment my
girlfriend and I just moved in. It seems that our predecessor was a
complete slob or our neighbors were infested and they bombed and we
got the pests as a result of them being driven out of their space.
As I was reading your article and there are some items that need to be
corrected. From what I have learned about the use of boric acid from
professionals and people like yourself and I is that Cockroaches don't
like eating boric acid, unless they unwittingly eat it through bait.
Boric acid is best used as a light dusting on surfaces barely
perceptible by the human eye. Cockroaches will try to avoid patches of
boric acid like a human would avoid a snow drift. The idea is to have
the roach walk through the boric acid. The crystals of the boric acid
will adhere to the cuticles of the legs of the cockroach as it walks
through. The roach will later ingest the boric acid when it grooms
itself. It has to keep itself clean in order to breath. An adult
cockroach will die within 72 hours of ingesting boric acid. A juvenile
or nymph will die within 24 hours. Cockroaches that have been exposed
to boric acid will exhibit behavior that is unusual to normal
behavior. They are nocturnal and those exposed will come out in to the
light looking for water as they dehydrate. I've seen this myself as
I'm winning the battle in my own apartment. Nymphs which
normally stay
in the shadows and cracks will come out in to the daylight.
I can only find Hot Shot boric acid at the moment from Home Depot or
Lowes. It costs around four dollars for a pound. It comes in a nice
bottle that can get in the way but the best way to use it is to open
it and put in a couple of pennies to keep it from caking up. Shake it
a couple of times and tap the bottom on a surface to shake the excess
down to the bottom and uncap it and let loose a light dusting to the
surface you're treating.
I could write on and on about how to combat cockroaches. You become an
expert when your home is infested with them. I'll write a small
article on what I have learned. I've had very good results with boric
acid. Now I rarely see a roach. If I do see one its
probably from an
adjacent apartment.
One last thing. When a roach starts dying. It triggers a last egg case
in females. They will drop one as a last say. 21 days later, boom.
Baby roaches. The boric acid will take care of them right away. They
die within hours of contact of boric acid.
Thanks and take care,
Jamie Krasnoo
Arthur's Reply:
Jamie,
Thank you for your contribution to the issue of controlling roaches with
boric acid. Your insights are quite a revelation to me. There's a
controversy though. A few people that have contributed their findings have
expressed their concern about human exposure to any dust that may be
produced when applying it. Would dusting the way you suggested, put people,
especially children, at risk upon the chance of breathing some of it? I
myself have not experienced any discomfort that had to do with breathing
some of the dust, if at all, the several times that I have been around when
applied. Is there an actual risk, do you know? Tell us your opinion about
it. With your permission, I will then add this written conversation to the
web site.
Also, what do you mean with "Hot Shot" boric acid?
Arthur
Jamie's Reply:
Arthur,
Hot Shot is a brand name of boric acid. Its full name is "Hot Shot Max
Attrax Roach Killing Powder". It's a 99.9%
boric acid mix with 0.01%
other ingredient (probably to keep it from clumping).
As far as I know you should take caution not to breath
it in when
laying down a layer. However due to its static nature I don't believe
that pets or children would be at risk. Boric Acid has a low toxic
rating. Somewhere near that of table salt. (re:
http://www.natbat.com/docs/boron.htm).
I haven't experienced any
discomfort either but I do take caution not to breath
it in.
Just to let you in on how good this product is. I'm hitting the
roaches on three fronts. The first is food denial. We're keeping the
kitchen and bathroom super clean. No dishes are to be left dirty in
the sink. The second is no standing water anywhere. The pipes are
insulated and no leaks have been found. We're denying them water.
Third, a fine layer of boric acid for them to walk through. It seems
that they're now getting desperate for water and food. Two adults
walked out to investigate where the food was when I was cooking last
night. Right out in the light. Also a nymph was spotted as well. All
were sent on their way to an early departure of course. However since
I have started treatment I have seen a serious decrease in sightings
of roaches. I seems that they are now moving to
the bathroom to try
and find water. So the war continues and we're winning. I think we can
eradicate the nest within a month.
Go ahead and post our conversation. I'll send you a few more tricks
that I found on the net such as how to make a live trap to see how bad
an infestation is. All it takes is a jar, some petroleum jelly and
bread soaked in a little beer (yes beer, they love it).
Jamie
************************************************************************************
Let#:46
-----Original
Message-----
From: barbara mathews
[mailto:tootiebarbara@yahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2007 7:00 PM
To: info@mouthstick.net
Subject: [SPAM] Boric Acid
Hi, I was just browsing the web, looking for something
to eradicate German Cockroaches. I have used many different brands of
sprays, gels and traps to no avail. At first, they all seemed to work, but
after 2 weeks, I start seeing the roaches again.
I found your site and as I was reading about Boric Acid,
I was reminded of when I was a pre-teen staying at my grandparents
house in the woods. I know this is gross but this is what I did: I chewed a
piece of bubble gum a few times to get it good and mushy. Then I stuck it
on the dresser and ringed it with Boric Acid. The next morning the powder
had been crawled through like you wouldn't believe. That night, there were
several LARGE cockroaches on their backs with legs wriggling!!!
Somehow, I feel I should have thought of Boric Acid
before my war of more than a year against roaches got out of control. I am
going to get some Boric Acid first thing in the
morning. By the way, I
stopped going to my grandparents house in the
woods when I was 13. I woke up to those HUGE cockroaches EATING MY ARM
WHERE I HAD APPARENTLY DROOLED. I still have a scar more than 20 years
later.
Thanks for a wonderful site.
-----Original Message-----
From: Arthur B Heyer
[mailto:abheyer@mouthstick.net]
Sent: Thursday, September 20, 2007 11:06 AM
To: barbara mathews
Subject: RE: [SPAM] Boric Acid
I believe your story about roaches eating from your arm, because I lived
once through a similar experience. Because I don't feel anything from my
shoulders down, my wife caught them once eating the tip of my penis.
Eventually, I recovered completely, though. ------ I will add your message
to the page, unless you specifically ask me not to.
Arthur
*********************************
Extensions for Independence
555 Saturn Blvd. #B-368
San Diego, CA 92154
Vce/Fax: (866)632-7149
Email: exin1976@yahoo.com
URL: www.mouthstick.net
*********************************
************************************************************************************
Let#:47
From: Dixie La Pierre <Dixie@bathcandy.com>
To: info@mouthstick.net
Sent: Friday, February 6, 2009 10:36:47 AM
Subject: Roach Control
I am in the process of moving to
a lovely condo. Problem is, I want to make sure
that there is not a problem with roaches.
I started looking online for all
of the information I could find about Boric Acid and Borax, because it
really does work.
I came across your site, and I
wanted to tell you that it is nice that you have this page.
The best advice I can give
anyone who deals with roaches are these steps:
1. Leave nothing out for the
roaches at night. Even take up pet food and water.
2. Make sure all water is turned
off with no leaky or dripping faucets. (Of course, during a freeze, you
have to leave a drip, but sprinkle the edges of the sinks with boric acid.
3. Make sure that if you refrigerate
your foods, they are all covered in the refrigerator and freezer. A fridge
alone is not a stopping point.
4. Take out all trash at night
so that there is nothing for the roaches to smell and come to eat.
5. Sweep and mop at least
once a week to get all of the food smells off the floor.
6. If you use the garbage
disposal, make sure after the food has gone down the drain that you run a
little bleach water after.
7. Make sure your bathroom,
laundry room, and kitchen all have clean floors.
8. If you eat in the living
room, use a towel under your plate so that you do not get tiny bits of food
on the furniture and draw roaches. Better bet is to eat at the table.
All the best,
Dixie
Looking over the valley from the top of the
mountain is different than looking
at the mountain from the valley. Try seeing
everyone's point of view. **********************************************************************************
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