Looking for a versatile, natural, and cost-effective cleaner for your home? Borax powder—also known as Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate—is a trusted multipurpose product that has been used for over a century. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore 10 powerful uses of borax powder in the home, the benefits of borax, and how to use it safely and effectively. If you're in the UK and wondering where to buy borax online, we’ll also show you how to get premium-quality borax from HD Chemicals LTD, a trusted UK chemical supplier.
What is Borax Powder?
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water. It appears as a white, powdery substance and is often sold under the name Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Due to its alkaline pH and unique chemical structure, borax is highly effective in cleaning, deodorizing, and even pest control.
Buy high-purity borax powder (99.9% pure) from HD Chemicals LTD, one of the most reliable online chemical suppliers in the UK.
10 Household Uses of Borax Powder (with Examples)
1. Laundry Booster and Stain Remover
Borax enhances the power of your laundry detergent, helps soften hard water, and removes stubborn stains and odors.
How to use:
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Add 50g of borax directly into the washing machine drum.
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Combine with your regular detergent and run your laundry as usual.
Use case: Great for smelly gym clothes, baby cloth diapers, or stained white shirts.
2. All-Purpose Household Cleaner
Borax can clean bathroom surfaces, kitchen counters, tiles, and more. It tackles soap scum, grease, and grime effortlessly.
How to use:
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Mix 25g of borax with 1 litre of warm water.
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Add a few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil for a fresh scent.
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Apply with a cloth or sponge and wipe clean.
Use case: Perfect for kitchen counters, bathtubs, and stovetops.
3. Mould and Mildew Remover
Borax naturally inhibits mould and mildew growth thanks to its high alkalinity.
How to use:
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Mix 100g of borax with 500ml of hot water.
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Scrub affected areas with a brush, then let it dry completely.
Use case: Ideal for bathroom tiles, walls, and ceilings.
4. Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Forget harsh chemicals—borax deep-cleans your toilet bowl and eliminates stains.
How to use:
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Sprinkle 50g of borax into the toilet bowl at night.
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Scrub with a brush the next morning and flush.
Use case: Effective against hard water stains and calcium buildup.
5. Carpet Deodorizer and Cleaner
Borax helps deodorize and refresh carpets, especially in pet-friendly homes.
How to use:
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Sprinkle 40g of borax per square metre of carpet.
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Let sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.
Use case: Excellent for pet accidents, food spills, and general freshening.
6. Ant and Cockroach Killer
Borax disrupts the digestive system of pests, making it an effective insecticide.
How to use:
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Mix 25g of borax with 25g of sugar and a few drops of water to form a paste.
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Place in small containers near ant trails or roach hiding spots.
Use case: Safe for use in kitchens if kept out of reach of pets and children.
7. Clogged Drain Treatment
Borax can help break down minor drain clogs and prevent foul odours.
How to use:
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Pour 60g of borax down the drain.
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Follow with 250ml of boiling water.
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Wait 15 minutes and rinse with more hot water.
Use case: Ideal for kitchen and bathroom sinks.
8. Dishwasher Cleaner
Hard water minerals can build up inside dishwashers. Borax helps remove that grime.
How to use:
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Add 100g of borax to the bottom of an empty dishwasher.
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Run a hot water cycle.
Use case: Monthly maintenance for a sparkling, odour-free dishwasher.
9. DIY Slime (for Kids' Crafts)
Borax is a common ingredient in making fun, stretchy slime.
How to use:
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Dissolve 5g of borax in 100ml of warm water.
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Mix with glue and food colouring as per slime recipe.
Use case: Fun weekend activity—always supervised and not for very young children.
10. Rust Remover
Borax can lift rust from metal tools, kitchen utensils, and bathroom fixtures.
How to use:
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Mix 30g of borax with 30ml of lemon juice into a paste.
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Apply with a cloth or brush, scrub, and rinse.
Use case: Revives old garden tools and rusted bathroom accessories.
Benefits of Using Borax Powder in the Home
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Eco-Friendly & Natural
– Borax is a naturally derived compound and contains no synthetic chemicals. -
Cost-Effective
– A single container of borax can serve multiple cleaning and pest control needs, saving money over time. -
Non-Toxic to Environment
– Unlike bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, borax is not harmful to the environment when used correctly. -
Safe for Septic Tanks
– Borax won’t harm your septic system and can help clean drains and pipes. -
Multi-Functional
– From laundry to pest control, borax reduces the need for multiple cleaning products. -
Odour Neutralizer
– Borax neutralizes unpleasant smells, not just masking them. -
Mould & Mildew Prevention
– Regular use prevents regrowth of mould in damp environments. -
Effective on Hard Water
– Softens hard water, enhancing the performance of soaps and detergents. -
Long Shelf Life
– Stored in a cool, dry place, borax remains effective for years. -
Trusted and Time-Tested
– Used in households for over a century, borax has stood the test of time.
Where to Buy Borax Powder Online in the UK?
If you're wondering where to buy borax powder online in the UK, look no further than HD Chemicals LTD. This reliable UK-based chemical supplier offers:
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99.9% pure borax powder
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Fast and secure delivery across the UK
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Easy online ordering process
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Excellent customer support
Get your high-quality Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate (Borax) today and start transforming your home with this powerful multi-use product.
Final Tips on Using Borax
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Always store borax in a labelled, sealed container, out of reach of children and pets.
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Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
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Never ingest borax—it is not edible.
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Test on small areas before applying borax to delicate fabrics or surfaces.
Summary
Borax powder is a natural, affordable, and effective solution for many common household tasks—from laundry boosting and cleaning to pest control and deodorizing. It’s a hidden gem for those who want to simplify their cleaning routine without sacrificing effectiveness or environmental responsibility.
Ready to try it for yourself? Order your borax powder from HD Chemicals LTD and experience the benefits today!
🔒 How to Safely Use Borax: PPE, Handling, and Storage Guidelines
Borax (sodium tetraborate decahydrate) is a highly effective and natural compound used in cleaning, pest control, and crafts. While it's less toxic than many chemical cleaners, it still requires safe handling to prevent irritation or misuse.
🧤 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
When working with borax, especially in powder form or large quantities, it's important to use the right PPE to avoid skin, eye, or respiratory irritation.
Recommended PPE includes:
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Gloves (nitrile or rubber):
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Prevents skin dryness or irritation when handling borax directly or in solution.
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Safety goggles:
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Protects eyes from accidental splashes or powder dust.
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Dust mask or respirator (optional but recommended for large quantities):
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Prevents inhalation of fine borax particles during mixing or application.
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Long sleeves and trousers:
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Reduces skin exposure, especially during large cleaning projects or pest treatments.
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📦 Storage Safety Tips
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Store in a cool, dry place:
Moisture can cause borax to clump and lose its effectiveness. -
Keep tightly sealed:
Use the original or an airtight container to prevent spills and dust. -
Label clearly:
If transferring borax into another container, label it with the product name and a warning: “Not for ingestion – keep away from children and pets.” -
Keep out of reach of children and animals:
Borax is toxic if ingested in significant amounts. Never store it near food or drinks.
⚠️ Handling and Usage Precautions
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Avoid ingestion or inhalation:
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using borax. Avoid breathing in dust when scooping or pouring. -
Always dilute in water when possible:
This reduces dust exposure and makes it safer to apply, especially for cleaning or spraying. -
Wash hands thoroughly after use:
Even if gloves are used, it's good practice to wash hands with soap and water after handling borax. -
Avoid contact with eyes:
If contact occurs, rinse eyes immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical advice if irritation persists. -
Use in a well-ventilated area:
When using borax indoors for cleaning or pest control, open windows or use a fan for proper airflow.
🛑 First Aid Measures
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If ingested:
Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and drink water. Seek immediate medical attention. -
If in eyes:
Rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Consult a doctor if irritation continues. -
If on skin:
Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. Apply a moisturizer if dryness occurs. -
If inhaled (dust):
Move to fresh air. Seek medical help if breathing becomes difficult or symptoms persist.
✅ Summary: Borax Safety Checklist
| Task | Safety Tip |
|---|---|
| Handling powder | Wear gloves, goggles, and a dust mask if needed |
| Mixing with water | Add powder slowly to avoid dust clouds |
| Cleaning with borax | Wear gloves and work in a ventilated space |
| Storing | Airtight container, cool/dry area, label clearly |
| After use | Wash hands and clean work surfaces |
📍 Where to Buy Safe, High-Quality Borax in the UK?
Purchase lab-grade, 99.9% pure borax from a trusted source like HD Chemicals LTD. This UK-based supplier ensures safe packaging, fast shipping, and compliance with handling regulations for home and industrial users.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Borax
1. What is borax powder?
Borax, also known as sodium tetraborate decahydrate, is a naturally occurring mineral salt that has cleaning, deodorizing, and disinfecting properties. It is widely used in household cleaning, laundry, pest control, and even DIY crafts like slime-making.
2. Is borax safe to use at home?
Yes, borax is safe for household use when used correctly and in moderation. It should be kept away from children and pets, and not ingested or inhaled in large amounts. Always wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
3. Can I use borax in my laundry?
Absolutely. Borax works as a laundry booster by softening hard water and enhancing the effectiveness of detergent. Use about 50g per load for best results.
4. Does borax kill ants and insects?
Yes, borax is effective as a natural insecticide. Mixed with sugar, it attracts ants and roaches and kills them by disrupting their digestive system.
5. Where can I buy borax powder in the UK?
You can buy 99.9% pure borax powder from HD Chemicals LTD, a trusted UK-based chemical supplier offering fast shipping and secure payment options.
6. Is borax the same as baking soda?
No. While both are used in cleaning, borax is a different chemical compound and is more alkaline. Borax is stronger for stain removal, mould control, and insect killing.
7. Can I use borax to clean mould and mildew?
Yes. Mix 100g of borax with 500ml of water to create a powerful mould and mildew remover for bathrooms, basements, and tiles.
8. Is borax safe for septic systems?
Yes, borax is safe for septic tanks and won’t harm your plumbing when used as directed.
9. Can borax be used in dishwashers?
Yes. Use 100g of borax in an empty dishwasher and run a hot cycle to remove buildup and odours.
10. Is borax environmentally friendly?
Borax is a naturally derived mineral and is considered more environmentally friendly than many synthetic cleaners. However, it should still be used responsibly to avoid overuse or contamination of soil and water.