Does Borax Repel Earwigs

Earwigs are a common household pest, known for their long pincers and nocturnal behavior. They can often be found in damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, and under sinks. While earwigs are generally harmless to humans, they can cause damage to plants and vegetables in gardens, making them a nuisance for gardeners.

Borax, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used as a household cleaner for many years. It is commonly used as a laundry detergent booster, a carpet cleaner, and as a natural insecticide. But does borax have the ability to repel earwigs? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Borax?

Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a white powder that is mined from the ground. It is composed of boron, sodium, oxygen, and water. Borax has many household uses due to its cleaning properties and ability to act as a natural insecticide.

Some common uses for borax in the household include:

• Laundry detergent booster
• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Candle wick hardener
• Pest control

While borax is generally safe to use around the house, it should be handled with care. Borax can be harmful if ingested or inhaled in large quantities.

Earwigs

Earwigs are small insects that are known for their long pincers, which they use for defense and to capture prey. They are primarily nocturnal and are attracted to damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.

While earwigs do not pose a direct threat to humans, they can cause damage to plants and vegetables in gardens. Earwigs will often eat the leaves and stems of plants, causing them to wilt and die.

There are several methods for controlling earwig populations including:

• Removing debris from around the home
• Sealing cracks and crevices where earwigs may enter the home
• Using sticky traps to catch earwigs
• Applying natural insecticides such as diatomaceous earth or neem oil

Borax and Earwigs

While there is limited research on borax’s effectiveness in repelling earwigs specifically, borax has been shown to be an effective natural insecticide for many other types of insects.

In one study published in the Journal of Economic Entomology, researchers found that borax was an effective natural insecticide against cockroaches. The study showed that borax caused dehydration in the cockroaches, leading to their eventual death.

To use borax as a method for repelling earwigs, simply sprinkle a small amount of borax around entry points into the home or in areas where earwigs are commonly found such as bathrooms or basements. The borax will create a barrier that the earwigs will not want to cross.

Borax can also be combined with other natural remedies such as diatomaceous earth or neem oil for added effectiveness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there is limited research on borax’s effectiveness in repelling earwigs specifically, there is evidence that it can act as an effective natural insecticide against other types of insects. When used properly and with caution, borax can be an effective and safe method for controlling earwig infestations in the home.