Bed bug infestations can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. They’re tiny and notoriously challenging to eliminate, leading many to seek effective and simple DIY solutions.

Boric acid is a chemical insecticide used in a variety of baits, granules, gels, and powders. It’s often touted as a miracle solution for a variety of pest problems, but if you’re wondering about its efficacy on bed bugs, you might be surprised. Read on to learn the answer.

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What Is Boric Acid and How Does It Work?

Boric acid is derived from the chemical element boron. It’s a stomach poison for bugs and works by interfering with their metabolism. If they eat it, they’ll eventually dry out and die. However, if they don’t consume the chemical, then it won’t work.

To entice the bugs to eat the bait, manufacturers add sugars, proteins, and other attractants that lure in the target insects. Some insects, like ants, cockroaches, and silverfish, are attracted to these types of foods. However, the story changes when it comes to bed bugs.

Does Boric Acid Kill Bed Bugs Effectively?

Despite boric acid’s effectiveness against other kinds of pests, it falls short when it comes to bed bugs. There are a few reasons why this is the case:

• Bed bug feeding habits: Bed bugs feed exclusively on blood. That means they aren’t drawn toward the sugar or protein-rich baits that typically contain boric acid. As a result, it’s hard to get them to ingest the bait to begin with.
• Method of action: Bugs must eat the boric acid for it to work. That means it won’t have the residual killing effect you need to fully eliminate a bed bug infestation.

While anecdotal evidence may suggest otherwise, boric acid’s underlying mechanics and the lack of supportive data make it hard to recommend as a reliable solution.

Alternative Pesticides That Work on Bed Bugs

The best DIY treatment to get rid of bed bugs is an over-the-counter insecticide spray or dust. These are some of the products you can purchase that will do the job:

• Pyrethroids: Pyrethroid-based sprays and foggers are known to kill bed bugs on contact. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend pyrethroid products like deltamethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, and permethrin. However, some bed bugs have become resistant to them.
• Desiccant dusts: Silica gel and diatomaceous earth can cut through bed bugs’ outer shells, leading to dehydration and death. As the bugs move around, they spread the dust to others.
• Insect growth regulators (IGRs:) IGRs like hydroprene don’t directly kill adult bed bugs. However, they can stop immature bed bugs from growing into adults. By breaking the reproductive cycle, it’s easier to manage the size of a bed bug infestation.

For severe infestations, professional pest control services can use stronger commercial-grade pesticides on infested areas.

Integrated Pest Management for Bed Bugs

An integrated pest management (IPM) approach is the most effective way to kill bed bugs, and it works by combining several methods so you have multiple lines of defense. Your pest control professional can help you design an individual IPM strategy. 

Pesticides may be one arm of the battle plan. However, they’re best used in conjunction with non-chemical tools. Heat treatments, for example, can effectively kill adult bed bugs, juveniles, and eggs. You can also install special encasements on a mattress and box spring which suffocate and starve the bed bugs.

Once the infestation is under control, inspect the areas routinely and be diligent about cleaning to prevent a resurgence of bed bugs. Use HEPA vacuum cleaners, wash infested fabrics in hot water, and declutter the space so bed bugs have less hiding places to use.

Borax Vs. Boric Acid – What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse Borax and boric acid due to their similar names and uses. However, there are a few key differences between these two compounds:

• Composition: Borax contains sodium, while boric acid does not. Sodium is an alkali metal that makes borax more alkaline and reactive.
• Toxicity: Both Borax and boric acid are harmful when ingested in large quantities. However, Borax is generally more acutely toxic than boric acid—it can cause nausea, vomiting, and other short-term symptoms.
• Appearance: Borax looks like a fine white powder, similar to salt. Boric acid is also available in powder form, but it has a more glassy or crystalline appearance.
• Uses: Borax and boric acid work similarly for pest control purposes. However, you can also use Borax to whiten and clean your laundry. 

In spite of the differences, Borax is just as ineffective at killing bed bugs as boric acid. It’s better to focus on a more proven method that addresses these pests’ specific biology and behaviors.

When to Call a Professional

DIY methods can be helpful for a minor bed bug infestation, but there are times where you’ll need professional intervention to get a hold of the problem. Contact a pest control company in any of these situations:

• You’re concerned about the safe use of pesticides in your home, particularly if you have children or pets.n borax powder, despite being more toxic, won’t work well against these pests.
• The infestation is widespread or has persisted despite home treatments.
• You’re unable to locate the source of the infestation, which can be hidden within walls or under floorboards.