What Are the Uses of Borax?

Borax is a naturally occurring mineral widely used as a laundry detergent booster. Also known as sodium borate, this white powder is not harmful to washing machines, plumbing pipes or septic tanks, and is non-toxic when used in recommended amounts. Borax is considered environmentally friendly because it's a natural product that does not contain phosphates or chlorine. Borax has many uses outside of the laundry room as well.

Deodorizing

Borax is a great deodorizer for dealing with household items and situations such as garbage cans and pails, litter boxes or pet urination accidents, or spilled milk that has turned sour.

Household Cleaner

Borax can be used as an effective cleaner for the shower, tub, tile and toilet. It also works for a thorough refrigerator cleaning.

Stain Removal

This substance has stain-removing properties as well, not only for household surfaces, but on fabric stains such as wine, coffee and tea.

Insecticide

Borax is also an effective insecticide against ants, cockroaches and fleas.

Fire Retardant

Borax also works as a fire retardant, and can put out small fires with no flare-up danger, including campfires.

Laboratories

Because borax is mildly alkaline, it is used as a buffer in chemistry labs to control the pH of compounds.

Industry

Borax even has industrial uses, such as in welding or soldering as a flux agent, and in extracting gold from metal in small mining facilities.

Resources

• Further information on borax