Borax is a chemical compound with many different uses around the home. It has been mined and sold commercially for more than a century. Borax consists of sodium, boron, water and oxygen. It is processed as a white powder, which easily dissolves in water. Does this Spark an idea?
Laundry Boost
Borax can increase the cleaning power of ordinary laundry detergents. A small amount, about 1/2 cup, is added to wash loads or can be dissolved in warm water as a pre-soak. Borax also works as a spot and stain remover. Many people prefer to use borax instead of bleach, which can harm or permanently stain clothing.
Pest Control
Borax has been used for the control of cockroaches and other household pests. For roach control, mix with a bit of sugar and sprinkle thin lines of the powder in hard-to-reach places, such as the backs of kitchen cabinets and under the front of appliances--wherever the pests appear. Outdoors, place it between the cracks of sidewalks as a preventive measure against ants. Combine with flour and pour along the foundation walls. A line of borax along windowsills and door thresholds also prevents insects from entering the home from outdoors.
Other Uses for Borax
Adding borax to pool water decreases its acidity, measured on the pH scale. Borax can also be added to water systems to decrease the "hardness" of water, which is caused by various minerals present in the water. Mixed into cat litter, borax can reduce the unpleasant odor. It also gets urine stains out from mattresses.
Cleaning with Borax
Borax is useful as a household cleaner on metal, porcelain or tile. It works without causing chemical fumes. Dissolved in warm water, it can remove rust, debris, mold, soap scum and water stains. It freshens toilet bowls and also helps to clean rugs and carpets. It can be useful when unclogging drains. Borax dissolved in water makes an excellent glass cleaner. Raked into the carpet, it can dry out fleas that live among carpet fibers.
Cautions
Borax should always be handled with care. Avoid allowing the powder form to touch the skin. Do not directly inhale its vapors or allow it to spill into food or drink. Borax can irritate the skin and cause breathing problems. If ingested it can cause vomiting, diarrhea and severe pain.
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