It has relatively low mammalian toxicity, however, the residual life is not as long as some of the other contact residual insecticides. Only premium grade malathion should be used inside the home. High moisture will also cause the silica to lump together and lose its effectiveness. It is a persistent, but slow-acting, poison. Boric acid, USP, sold as an eyewash is safer to use because of the lower concentration than the insecticidal boric acid.
Boric acid is acutely poisonous if ingested, especially in infants and children.
However, sodium arsenate is still used in some ant bait traps and is highly effective, but must be used with great caution. Should not be used in homes with pets or children. Fabrics put into storage should be washed or dry cleaned and then stored in sealed containers with PDB to prevent clothes moth or carpet beetle damage. It is generally formulated with ethyl or isopropyl alcohol. Unlike Deet, it is a relatively non-toxic material.