How to Get Rid of Rats and Cockroaches with Rice? The Truth About This Viral “Natural” Remedy (Plus Safer, Effective Alternatives)
Elena RossiYou’ve probably seen it online: “Mix rice and plaster of Paris—it’s a natural rat killer!” It sounds simple, cheap, and chemical-free. But before you try it, there’s something important you should know:
This method is not only ineffective—it’s potentially dangerous, inhumane, and could even violate animal cruelty laws in some areas.
Let’s break down the truth about the “rice and plaster” myth—and share truly safe, humane, and effective ways to keep your home pest-free without risking your family’s health or resorting to cruel tactics.
The Viral “Rice + Plaster of Paris” Method — Why It’s a Bad Idea
❌ How It’s Supposed to Work
Mix uncooked rice powder + plaster of Paris (a dry gypsum powder used in casts and wall repair).
Place near rat or roach activity.
Pests eat the mixture, then drink water → plaster hardens in their stomach → they die.
❌ Why It Doesn’t Work (and Is Harmful)
Rats avoid unfamiliar foods – They’re neophobic (suspicious of new items) and won’t eat unknown powders.
Cockroaches prefer grease & sugar – They’re rarely attracted to plain rice powder.
Inhumane suffering – If ingested, plaster causes slow, painful internal blockage—not a quick or ethical death.
Risk to pets and wildlife – Dogs, cats, birds, or stray animals could ingest the bait.
Not scientifically supported – No pest control authority recommends this method.
⚠️ Important: In many places, causing unnecessary suffering to animals—even pests—is illegal.
What Actually Attracts Rats and Roaches?