About Boric Acid

• Boric acid is a white, odorless, naturally-occurring crystal commonly mined in dried salt lake beds of desert areas, such as Death Valley, Turkey and the Andes Mountains. As a source of boron, an element with natural anti-fungal and antiseptic properties, boric acid is widely used in industrial applications, laundry and cleaning supplies, swimming pools and pharmaceutical solutions.
  
  

As an Insecticide

• As an alternative to highly toxic insecticides, boric acid kills many insect species within 24 to 48 hours. Like diatomaceous earth, it acts as a dessicant, which scratches the exoskeleton of hard-bodied insects. As a salt, it interferes with metabolic processes. Cockroaches, naturally fastidious insects, succumb to boric acid when they crawl over treated areas, clean their legs then ingest the borax. A poison and salt, boric acid interferes with digestion and electrolyte transmission. Fleas, especially the larvae, are particularly susceptible to the drying action of boric acid and die within 24 to 48 hours. Flea adults may take several weeks to die.
  
  

Vacuuming Excess Boric Acid

• Boric acid will not harm your vacuum cleaner. In fact, if you have a flea problem and add boric acid inside the filter and bag, it will continuously kill any flea eggs or insects that survive the vacuuming process. All-Pets-Info.com recommends you remove the vacuum bag and seal it in a plastic garbage bag each time you vacuum fleas. Use a fresh bag or empty filter for best results. If you have an older vacuum that expels particulates into the air, boric acid may become airborne. Inhaled or ingested, boric acid can cause respiratory and nasal membrane irritation, stomach upset, dizziness and shortness of breath. As a precaution, invest in a vacuum with a sealed system or HEPA filter, one that reduces particulates and allergens that escape into the air.
  
  

What Not To Vacuum

• While boric acid is harmless to the function of a vacuum, there are other items that can wreak havoc on the appliance. Construction dust, wood, nails and small toys can clog hoses and reduce suction. Christmas tree pine needles, dog or cat hair, human hair and thread or fabric can block and restrict the rotating brush. If threads or hair wrap around the vacuum cleaner's belt, it can dislodge the belt from the rotating brush or restrict its movement, increase its friction and cause it to melt. Before you vacuum your rugs and floors, scan the area for non-vacuum-friendly items.