Treatments · Borate salts
Sodium tetraborate
A borate salt found in some ant baits. Borax and boric acid are related but distinct ingredients.
Updated October 3, 2026 · Educational ingredient reference
Quick reference
- Chemical family: Borate salts.
- Example forms: Liquid bait, Bait station.
- Example target groups: Ants.
- Use context: Only labeled pest-control products.
- Targets and forms vary by product. The exact label governs permitted pests, sites and methods.
What is it?
Sodium tetraborate is a borate salt. Its decahydrate form is also known as borax; it is not the same compound as boric acid or disodium octaborate tetrahydrate.
Where does it fit?
Texas A&M household ant guidance lists sodium tetraborate among bait ingredients. The bait formulation and ant feeding preferences matter, not the ingredient name alone.
What cautions matter?
Keep labeled baits inaccessible to children and pets. Laundry borax is not permission to make a pesticide mixture. Borate products can irritate eyes and skin, and swallowed products can cause illness.
What governs use?
The current product label controls permitted pests, sites, placement, protective equipment and restrictions. This is an educational ingredient reference, not a recipe, product endorsement or statement of Texas registration.