Household pests can be a significant nuisance, and if you’ve ever had an ant or roach infestation, you know the lengths people will go to keep their homes clean and pest-free. One of the most effective yet simple methods to address this issue involves a combination of borax, wax paper, and a strategic location under your fridge.

Here’s why this old-fashioned remedy is gaining popularity and how it can help keep your home pest-free.

Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral often used in cleaning products, laundry detergents, and insecticides. It has excellent pest control properties, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to manage pest problems without resorting to harsh chemicals. But why is borax so effective against household pests like ants and cockroaches?

Borax acts as a stomach poison to ants and cockroaches. When these pests consume borax, it interferes with their digestive systems, ultimately causing them to die. Borax is also abrasive to insects’ exoskeletons, which can cause them to dehydrate. Moreover, when ants bring borax back to their colony, it can help eliminate the entire colony, not just the individual ants you see. This dual-action mechanism—poisoning and dehydration—makes borax a potent and effective pest control agent.

Wax paper is an excellent medium for distributing borax because it is both easy to handle and helps prevent the powder from directly contacting surfaces where children or pets might come into contact with it. Wax paper allows you to spread a thin, even layer of borax that can then be slid under your fridge without spilling, making it a convenient tool for precise placement.

The area under your fridge is often a hotspot for pests. The warmth and occasional moisture provide an ideal environment for ants, roaches, and other insects to thrive. Additionally, food crumbs and spills can accumulate under the fridge, providing a consistent food source for these unwanted guests. Placing borax under the fridge targets this high-traffic area for pests, increasing the likelihood of them coming into contact with the borax.