Viktoriia Oleinichenko / Getty ImagesBorax has been a trusted laundry booster for generations, known for its ability to enhance detergent performance, fight odors, and soften hard water. But how does borax work and how can you effectively incorporate it into your laundry routine? We reached out to cleaning experts to delve into the science behind borax, its benefits, and safe usage practices. Whether you’re dealing with tough stains, persistent odors, or seeking a natural fabric softener, borax can revolutionize how you keep your clothes fresh and clean. Let’s explore further.
Expert Contributors:
– Gina McRae from Molly Maids, Nashville, Tenn.
– Whitney White, cleaning specialist and popular content creator
What is Borax?
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral with powerful cleaning, deodorizing, and stain-removing properties. Its natural alkalinity helps break down acidic stains like coffee, fruit, and tomato sauce, while neutralizing odors by counteracting acidic molecules. Similar to baking soda and vinegar, borax works by using its acid and base properties to lift stains and odors.
How to Use Borax in Laundry
Versatile in its applications, borax offers various ways to enhance your laundry routine. Here are some methods to maximize its effectiveness:
While borax is a natural product, it can be harmful if mishandled. Always follow usage instructions and store products containing borax safely away from children and pets.
Enhance Detergent Performance
Boost your detergent’s cleaning power and eliminate residue by adding borax to your wash cycle. This cost-effective method is recommended by cleaning professional Whitney White, who notes that borax can also help soften hard water, preventing clothing from becoming dingy with each wash.
What You’ll Need:
– ½ cup of borax
– Laundry detergent
– Washing machine
Instructions:
1. Load laundry into the washing machine.
2. Add ½ cup of borax directly to the drum.
3. Include your regular amount of detergent.
4. Select the appropriate wash cycle and start the machine.
You can also replace commercial fabric softeners with borax for a more natural alternative, as suggested by Gina McRae from Molly Maids.
Pre-Treat Stains
Utilize borax’s natural alkalinity to remove acidic stains such as those from fruit, wine, or bodily fluids. This method is preferred by White as a bleach alternative with similar efficacy.
What You’ll Need:
– 1 tablespoon of borax
– 2 tablespoons of warm water
– Small bowl
– Soft brush or cleaning cloth
Instructions:
1. Mix borax and warm water to form a paste.
2. Apply the paste to the stain, gently rubbing it in.
3. Let it sit for 30 minutes to break down the stain.
4. Rinse with warm water and launder as usual.
Clean and repeat if needed before drying. Deodorize and Brighten White Clothes Borax can help revitalize white garments by eliminating buildup from wear and washing. Its natural deodorizing and stain-fighting properties make it a great option for enhancing and rejuvenating fabrics. According to White, “This also aids in removing odors.” What You’ll Require: ½ cup of borax 1 gallon of warm water Large bucket, sink, or basin Instructions: Fill a large bucket, sink, or basin with 1 gallon of warm water. Add ½ cup of borax and mix until dissolved. Submerge your laundry in the borax solution, ensuring the fabric is completely immersed. Allow it to soak for 30–60 minutes. For extremely dingy whites, soak overnight. Move the soaked clothes to the washing machine and launder as usual.
