How to Get Rid of Rats and Cockroaches with Rice: An Effective and Natural Home Remedy
Rats and cockroaches are among the most persistent and unwelcome pests in any home. Chemical treatments can be effective, but they often come with strong odors and potential risks to pets and children. Fortunately, there’s a natural and surprisingly effective home remedy using a simple ingredient found in almost every kitchen—rice.
Why Rice Works as a Pest Control Tool
Uncooked rice may seem harmless, but it can be a deadly trap for both rats and cockroaches when used correctly:
- Rats cannot digest dry, uncooked rice properly. Once ingested, the rice absorbs fluids in the rat’s stomach, swells up, and can cause internal discomfort or even fatal bloating.
- Cockroaches are attracted to starchy foods like rice. When mixed with certain natural additives, the rice becomes a bait they can’t resist—but won’t survive.
Natural Rice-Based Remedy for Rats
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions:
- Mix the rice, sugar, and baking soda thoroughly in a bowl.
- Place small portions in shallow containers or bottle caps.
- Put these near rat-prone areas—behind appliances, under sinks, in cupboards, or attic corners.
How it works: The sugar attracts the rats, the rice acts as the base, and the baking soda reacts with stomach acid to produce gas—something rats can’t release, leading to fatal bloating.
Natural Rice Trap for Cockroaches
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour or finely ground uncooked rice
- 2 tablespoons boric acid powder (available at pharmacies or hardware stores)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients to form a fine powder.
- Sprinkle the mixture in dark corners, behind the fridge, under the sink, and along baseboards.
- Keep it dry and out of reach of pets or children.
Why it works: The sugar lures the cockroaches, the rice flour acts as filler, and boric acid kills them slowly after ingestion by damaging their digestive system and exoskeleton.
Additional Tips for Success
- Replace bait every few days to keep it fresh and effective.
- Seal up any food sources and keep your home clean to prevent further infestations.
- Plug entry points like cracks, drains, and vents where pests might enter.
Precautions:
While this method is natural, ingredients like boric acid and baking soda can still be harmful to pets and small children if ingested. Place the baits out of reach and label them clearly.
This rice-based method is a smart, low-cost way to take control of your pest problem without exposing your home to harsh chemicals. Consistency is key—repeat the treatment regularly and combine it with good hygiene practices for best results.
