Homeowners are always looking for simple, inexpensive ways to solve everyday problems.
Some hacks sound unusual at first but prove surprisingly effective once you understand the reasoning. One clever example is placing borax on wax paper and sliding it under your refrigerator.
It may sound strange, but this simple trick can help keep pests out of your kitchen and reduce hidden messes where you least expect them.
Why Borax?
Borax, or sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral best known as a laundry booster and cleaning product.
It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, but one of its most useful roles is as a pest deterrent.
When insects like ants, cockroaches, or silverfish come into contact with borax, they carry it back to their nests or ingest it while cleaning themselves.
The borax disrupts their digestive systems, eventually killing them and spreading to others in the colony. This makes it an effective, long-lasting way to manage pests.
Why Under the Fridge?
The space beneath your refrigerator is dark, warm, and rarely disturbed—making it a perfect hiding spot for pests. Crumbs, spills, and food particles often collect there, creating an easy food source for ants and roaches.
Since your fridge is in the kitchen, pests in this area also increase the risk of food contamination.
Targeting the space beneath it is one of the smartest preventative steps you can take.
How Wax Paper Helps
While you could sprinkle borax directly on the floor, wax paper makes the process cleaner and easier.
It holds the powder in place, prevents it from scattering, and allows you to slide it into hard-to-reach areas without moving the fridge. When it’s time to replace it, you can simply pull the paper out and start fresh.
How to Use Borax and Wax Paper
You’ll need: borax powder, wax paper, scissors.
- Cut a sheet of wax paper large enough to fit under your fridge.
- Sprinkle a thin, even layer of borax across the surface.
- Slide the sheet under the refrigerator until it’s fully in place.
- Leave it there for a few months, replacing it if it gets dirty or if you notice pests again.
Extra Pest Prevention Tips
- Sweep and mop floors regularly, especially around appliances.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Seal cracks and gaps with caulk.
- Take out trash often and keep bins sealed.
Safety Notes
Borax is natural but should still be handled carefully.
Keep it away from pets and children, as swallowing large amounts can be harmful. If kids or pets may have access, use sealed containers with small openings or place the paper in areas they can’t reach.
Final Thoughts
Sliding a sheet of wax paper sprinkled with borax under your fridge is a low-cost, low-effort way to fight pests where they like to hide.
Combined with basic cleaning and storage habits, it can help keep your kitchen safe, clean, and pest-free.