What Is Borax?

Borax is a natural mineral, sodium tetraborate, which has been mined and used for thousands of years.

(Borax and boric acid are borates but boric acid is processed differently and more corrosive.)

container of borax next to a stack of towels

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Learn below how to properly use borax in your laundry.

Use one or all three steps below.

Just as otheroxygen-based bleaches, hydrogen peroxide breaks down safely into water and oxygen.

GoCan Extra Large Basket holding clothing on the ground

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Apply on Stains

Mix 1 tablespoon of borax with 2 tablespoons of water.

Spread the paste on the stained area of the garment.

Let it work for at least 30 minutes before washing as usual.

The Whirlpool Smart Top Load Washing Machine with 2 in 1 Removable Agitator and a Whirlpool Electric Dryer side-by-side in a laundry room

Borax is an effective stain remover for both food and grease stains.

Add the white clothes and allow them to soak for at least one hour (longer is better).

The clothes should then be washed as usual.

Person opening the lid of a Whirlpool Smart Top Load Washer

Submerge the stinky laundry and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.

Getting rid of residue left in fabrics leaves them whiter, brighter, and softer to the touch.

Additional Tips for Using Borax in Your Laundry

Borax will do numerous things in the wash. Borax is still used for cleaning products.

adding borax to water

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Home Cleaning Chemistry.Utah State University Extension.

Borates, Borax, and Boric Acid: Are They Safe?National Capital Poison Control.

Borax.National Center for Biotechnology Information.

borax next to white linens

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Boric Acid.National Pesticide Information Center.

adding borax to a laundry basin

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pouring borax into a container

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