Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral and a key ingredient in many household and industrial products. With a wide range of uses—from cleaning to pest control—borax has gained popularity as a multipurpose, affordable solution. But what exactly is borax, how does it work, and is it safe? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Borax?
Borax is a white, powdery mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water. It is found in arid regions where seasonal lakes evaporate, leaving behind boron-rich deposits. Common sources of natural borax include the United States (especially California), Turkey, and Argentina.
Chemically, borax is represented as Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O, or sodium tetraborate decahydrate. It’s commonly sold in powder form and used in a variety of applications, including cleaning, laundry, and crafts.
Common Uses of Borax
1. Household Cleaning
Borax is a natural cleaning agent that’s both affordable and effective. It removes stains, eliminates odors, and cuts through grease. Many people use borax to clean kitchens, bathrooms, and even floors.
How to use it: Mix a tablespoon of borax with two cups of water in a spray bottle. Use this solution to clean countertops, sinks, and tile surfaces.
2. Laundry Booster
Borax helps soften water, which enhances the cleaning power of detergent. It also neutralizes odors and breaks down tough stains.
Tip: Add ½ cup of borax to your washing machine along with your regular detergent for cleaner, fresher-smelling clothes.
3. Pest Control
Borax is toxic to many small insects, including ants, cockroaches, and fleas. When insects ingest borax, it disrupts their digestive system and eventually kills them.
How to use: Mix borax with sugar and place it near insect trails. The sugar attracts them, and the borax eliminates them.
4. Mold and Mildew Removal
Due to its antifungal properties, borax is effective at removing mold and mildew from damp areas like bathrooms and basements.
Instructions: Mix one cup of borax with one gallon of water. Apply to the affected area and scrub with a brush. Leave it to dry to prevent regrowth.
5. DIY Crafts and Slime
Borax is a popular ingredient in homemade slime, a fun and educational activity for kids. It acts as a cross-linking agent when mixed with glue, giving slime its stretchy texture.
Basic recipe: Mix 1 teaspoon of borax with 1 cup of warm water, then combine with a mixture of white glue and water.

Health and Safety Considerations
While borax is natural, that doesn’t mean it’s completely harmless. It’s important to handle it properly to avoid potential risks.
Is Borax Safe?
In small, diluted amounts, borax is generally safe for household use. However, ingesting borax or prolonged exposure to large amounts can be harmful. The U.S. FDA has banned borax in food products, and it’s not considered safe for internal use.
Safety Tips:
- Keep borax out of reach of children and pets.
- Always wear gloves when handling borax directly.
- Avoid inhaling borax powder—use it in well-ventilated areas.
- Rinse surfaces thoroughly after cleaning with borax.
Is Borax Eco-Friendly?
Yes, borax is a more environmentally friendly alternative to many synthetic cleaners. It breaks down naturally and doesn’t release toxic fumes into the air. However, since it is toxic to plants in high concentrations, avoid dumping large quantities into soil or waterways.
Where to Buy Borax
Borax is widely available in supermarkets, hardware stores, and online. One of the most well-known brands is 20 Mule Team Borax, often found in the laundry aisle.
When buying borax, make sure to choose a product labeled “pure borax” or “sodium borate” without added chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Borax is a powerful, versatile, and eco-friendly substance that can simplify your cleaning routine, boost your laundry results, and even help manage household pests. With proper handling, it offers a safe and cost-effective solution to many everyday problems.