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Toxic-Free Pest Control from your Pantry
A factsheet from Toxic Free NC

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Toxic Free NC common sense pest control recipe


Roach Balls

1 cup borax
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup minced onion
1 Tbsp. Cornstarch
1 Tbsp. Water

Make a paste of the ingredients and roll into little balls.
To use: Place 2 or 3 balls in a sandwich bag anywhere you have a roach problem. The roaches will eat the balls and carry them home to their nests, where they will die. Boric acid or borax is safe to handle, though inhaling it in large amounts can irritate the respiratory tract. Because it is not a nerve poison, roaches will not become resistant.

Toxic Free NC common sense pest control recipe


Ant Bait

3 cups water
1 cup sugar
4 tsp. Borax

To use: Mix together and place the mixture in 3 to 6 screw top jars. Loosely pack with cotton wool. Screw the lids on tightly and seal with tape. Poke holes in the lid and place near points of entry, or along ant trails, for best results.
Boric acid or borax is safe to handle, though inhaling large amounts can irritate the respiratory tract. Clearly label the jar as POISON and keep away from pets and curious children. 

Toxic Free NC common sense pest control recipe


Mold & Mildew Killer

1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup borax
2 cups warm water

Pour or spray onto moldy areas and let sit for a few minutes, then scrub off with a brush. If mildew is still visible, repeat application. Do not save the leftover mixture.

Toxic Free NC common sense pest control recipe


Herbal Insect Repellent

15 drops lavender oil
15 drops tea tree oil
10 drops citronella oil
10 drops eucalyptus oil
10 drops cedarwood oil

In a small bottle, mix these with about one ounce of your favorite unscented skin oil (olive oil works fine). Not recommended for pregnant women. Keep out of your eyes. Try a small amount on your wrist first to check for skin allergies. Experiment with different ingredients to develop your own blend!

 


 
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