When used correctly, this staple cleaning ingredient can make even the dirtiest spots in your home sparkle.
Getty Images / Maksim Tikhonov
Borax has been used to clean households for centuries.
In more modern times, its best known as alaundry boosterbut it can be utilized for so much more!
Credit:Getty Images / Maksim Tikhonov
But did you know boraxcan clean more than your clothes?
What is Borax?
Borax is comprised of the elements boron, sodium, and oxygen.
Borax should not be confused with boric acid, a chemical compound that is primarily used in pesticides.
Ideally, you should wear gloves when cleaning with borax and keep the area youre working in well-ventilated.
It canremove stubborn stains, fight funky odors, and keep your whites and colors from fading.
Additionally, it can help to soften the water, which, in turn, keeps clothing softer.
Simply add half a cup of borax to the washing machine alongside your usual detergent.
Note that you should avoid using borax whenwashing wool, silk, or any delicate fabric.
Its too rough for these materials and, therefore, can risk ruining the garment.
Let it sit for a bit, then vacuum and repeat the process if necessary.
(The same goes for wooden furniture.)
However, if you have tile orvinyl flooring, borax can keep them spotless.
Clean Countertops
Borax is an excellent all-purpose cleaner for quick countertop clean-ups.
Includewhite vinegarand essential oils in the mix to kick it up a notch (and enhance the smell).
Refresh the Fridge
Repeat the lemon juice method for sticky spills inside the refrigerator.
Due to its disinfectant properties, borax is also ideal forsanitizing germy sinks, drains, and garbage disposals.
Be careful not to use borax on aluminum cookware, as it can cause discoloration.
Use the all-purpose cleaner made of borax and water and spray directly onto surfaces.
Allow the solution to work its magic for 20 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
Borax not only helps to scour away unsightly stains, but it also disinfects and deodorizes.
