There are two main differences between baking soda and borax. Borax is significantly more alkaline than baking soda. Borax has a pH of 9.5 vs. 8 for baking soda. That might make it more effective in certain situations, but it also makes it a harsher cleaning agent.
Full Answer
What is the difference between baking soda and borax?
Unlike baking soda and washing soda, borax is mined instead of manufactured. The majority of household borax comes from dried lakes in California and Turkey, and popular brands like 20 Mule Team Borax advertise it primarily as a laundry booster.
How to use borax to clean carpets?
How to Clean Your Carpets with Borax 1 Cleaning Up New Spills and Stains. Use Borax to help clean up new spills like wine, coffee and juices. ... 2 Spot-clean your carpets. If you don’t get to the spill right away, you can use 20 Mule Team Borax and a few other ingredients to spot clean stains on your ... 3 Steam cleaning carpets with Borax. ...
Does borax work as a cleaning agent?
Borax works as a cleaning agent for the same reasons that baking soda works: it’s alkaline and it’s abrasive. You can use it to clean the drain, clean your dishwasher, deodorize your carpets, and remove rust stains. It’s also helpful in getting rid of pesky bugs (including cockroaches) and killing weeds.
How to use baking soda to clean carpet?
The three ways to use baking soda to clean carpet are to remove odors and greasy and non-greasy stains. To remove odors, sprinkle baking soda on the spot. For non-greasy stains, combine the baking soda with hot water. For the greasy stains, first, soak it, then apply the baking soda.
Can you use borax in a carpet cleaning machine?
0:233:40Clean Your Carpets (One Weird Trick) How To Use BORAX to ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut using a little bit of borax in addition to whatever detergent you're using increases theMoreBut using a little bit of borax in addition to whatever detergent you're using increases the cleaning capacity of the machine borax. Pretty much is a detergent booster.
Which cleans better baking soda or borax?
Both baking soda and Borax are effective because they are alkaline and abrasive. But Borax has a higher PH than baking soda, making it a slightly harsher but arguably more effective cleaning agent. It inhibits fungi, mold, and bacteria.
Which is better for laundry borax or washing soda?
Borax is most effective in hotter water, while washing soda is perfect for any temperature. When thinking about doing your own laundry detergent, consider that Borax is perfectly fine, but if you're having trouble getting things really clean then replacing borax with washing soda might be the way to go.
Can you use borax and baking soda together?
Remove stubborn stains – Mix 1 teaspoon of borax and 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a small bowl. Add about half a glass of warm water. Dip a sponge or cloth into the mixture and scrub the stains away.
What is the difference between baking soda and borax?
The key difference between borax and baking soda is that the borax is a sodium borate that appears as a white solid whereas the baking soda is a sodium bicarbonate that appears as white crystals. Borax is a term that describes a class of chemical compounds that include hydrated and anhydrous sodium borate.
Is baking soda the same as borax?
Borax (sodium tetraborate) and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) aren't the same thing. They're both salts, and they're both popular as “green” household cleaning agents, but borax has a pH of 9.5, compared to baking soda's pH of 8. This makes borax considerably more alkaline than baking soda.
Which is better OxiClean or borax?
Go with the safer option. Not only is OxiClean the safer option, but it comes in several forms, including powder, liquid spray, and laundry detergent; borax is only sold as a powder. Learn more about the many ways you can use OxiClean on Amazon or OxiClean.com.
Is it safe to use baking soda in washing machine?
Safe to use in both standard and high-efficiency washers, baking soda is one of the top two best products (along with distilled white vinegar) for making your laundry greener by reducing your dependence on harsh chemicals.
Can you mix washing soda and borax?
The general ratio for the laundry stripping recipe is 2 parts powdered detergent, 1 part Borax and 1 part washing soda. For most laundry stripping in standard size tubs, follow this recipe: ¼ cup ARM & HAMMER Super Washing Soda. ¼ cup Borax.
Is 20 Mule Team Borax the same as borax?
20 Mule Team Borax is a brand of borax used as a cleaner and is manufactured by The Dial Corporation.
Can you mix borax and baking soda and vinegar?
Baking soda, borax and vinegar have natural, nontoxic cleaning properties and, unlike many commercial products, can be used safely around pets and children. Baking soda cleans, deodorizes, scours, polishes, softens water and removes stains. Make a paste to clean stained tiles.
Is washing soda and borax the same thing?
Washing soda (sodium carbonate) has a very high pH level, making it an extreme alkaline compound that is very effective as a cleaning agent. Borax (sodium tetraborate) pH levels aren't as high as washing soda, and it doesn't have the same cleaning power as washing soda.
Is borax good for cleaning?
Borax is an effective stain remover because its alkalinity helps to break down acidic stains. Make a solution of warm water and 6 tablespoons of Borax. Soak the clothing for around an hour before putting it through the washing machine cycle. If it is a stubborn stain, you may need to repeat the process.
Can you substitute baking soda for borax?
But you can do the same by using baking soda as a substitute for borax. Baking soda can brighten and soften clothing and lower the pH of hard water just as borax does, but it's risk-free and non-toxic.
Is borax and OxiClean the same thing?
Ingredients: Borax is a naturally occurring compound made up of boron, sodium, and oxygen. OxiClean's active ingredient is sodium percarbonate, which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide when mixed with water. Uses: Borax is most commonly used as a laundry aid, although it can be an all-purpose cleaner as well.
Is Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda the same as borax?
Washing soda (sodium carbonate) has a very high pH level, making it an extreme alkaline compound that is very effective as a cleaning agent. Borax (sodium tetraborate) pH levels aren't as high as washing soda, and it doesn't have the same cleaning power as washing soda.
Baking Soda and Its Uses
Baking soda, known as bicarbonate, is a solid inorganic compound. It is crystal white in appearance and has a chemical formula of NaHCO 3 and a mass of 84 g/mol.
Borax and Its Uses
Borax, on the other hand, is also a naturally occurring chemical commonly known as anhydrous with a chemical formula of Na 2 B 4 O 7. 10H 2 O. It is a white solid compound available in almost every part of the world.
Effectiveness of Baking Soda and Borax in Pools
Baking soda is a natural alkaline with a pH of 8. When added to pools, it increases the alkaline and pH, thus improving the clarity and stability of your pool.
Difference Between Borax and Baking Soda
Baking soda and borax are in many ways quite similar but a bit different in performance and chemical composition.
Can You Mix Borax and Baking Soda?
You must have seen people mixing two to three chemicals for cleaning, and you are wondering if it’s possible to mix borax and baking soda. Well, it is very much possible, and it helps improve your cleaning needs without unbalancing your pool. Some even mix vinegar, borax, and baking soda to enhance the efficacy of the cleaning.
Conclusion
Borax and baking soda are both great products with extensive use. The one you choose should greatly depend on your needs. Remember that borax cannot be consumed. So, if you have pets at home, you would need to consider the right product for you critically.
Why is borax good for cleaning?
A buffer helps to maintain a stable pH level to ensure that cleansing chemicals react the right way. The oxygen of boron and/or the boron salt inhibits the metabolic process of most organisms. That feature makes borax an excellent product for killing and disinfecting unwanted pests.
How does borax work?
It cleans and bleaches by turning some water molecules into hydrogen peroxide. The reaction is more effective in warm water compared to the cold one. Borax has a pH level of 9.5, so it is a product that produces a basic solution when mixed with water.
Why do you leave baking soda in the refrigerator?
That is why people leave baking soda in the refrigerator – it is a base that neutralizes most acid smells. Baking soda also mixes with vinegar to form a reliable cleaning solution. You can use that solution to unclog drains, removing grease, and other dirt from your utensils.
What is the chemical formula for baking soda?
Borax is a name given to either hydrate or anhydrous forms of sodium borate. Its chemical formula is Na 2 [B4O5 (OH)4]•8H2O and the molar mass is 381.38 g/mol. On the flipside, Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate.
What is the name of the compound that is used to clean grease?
Borax decahydrate – (Na2B4O7•10H2O) Borax pentahydrate – (Na2B4O7•5H2O) Sodium tetraborate or anhydrous borax – (Na2B4O7) Borax is used in different types of cleaning recipes, where it is added for its ability to cut grease and fight stain. You will find it in various products and sectors, not only cleaning chemicals.
When was borax invented?
Borax was first created in 1881 in Death Valley and is sold commercially by the 20 Mule Team Brand. It hit the market in 1981. Baking soda was introduced in the market in 1846 and is used in several applications like preserving, cleaning, and cooking.
Is borax the same as baking soda?
Is Borax and Baking Soda the Same? Some people think that borax is the same as baking soda because they are used for almost the same purpose. However, baking soda is chemically different from borax. Both are excellent household cleaners in the bathroom, kitchen, swimming pools, and freshening laundry.
When was baking soda invented?
Baking soda was first made commercially in 1846 and has been used in many different applications since, including cooking, cleaning and preserving. Borax was discovered in Death Valley in 1881 and has been sold commercially under the 20 Mule Team™ brand since 1981. Key Uses.
What is the name of the compound that is made of sodium bicarbonate?
Baking soda is the common name for sodium bicarbonate, which is a naturally occurring chemical compound with the formula of NaHCO 3 (one sodium ion to one bicarbonate ion). Borax is the common name for the naturally occurring mineral sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Na 2 B 4 0 7 -10H 2 O).
Is baking soda a natural cleaner?
Key Uses. While chemically very different, both baking soda and Borax are all-natural alternatives to commercial cleaning products. They're both used to clean and deodorize. But there are a few differences. Below, we break down key differences about when to use each one.
What Does Baking Soda Do?
Baking soda is the common name for sodium bicarbonate, a naturally occurring compound with the chemical formula NaHCO3.
What Does Washing Soda Do?
Washing soda (sometimes called “soda ash”) is the common name for sodium carbonate, a naturally occurring compound with the chemical formula Na2CO3. With a pH of 11, washing soda is considered highly alkaline, similar to household ammonia and soapy water.
What Does Borax Do?
Borax is the common name for sodium tetraborate, a naturally occurring mineral with the chemical formula Na2B4O7⋅10H2O. Borax has a pH of 9.5, placing it roughly halfway between baking soda and washing soda on the pH scale.
What is the chemical formula for borax?
Borax is the common name for sodium tetraborate, a naturally occurring mineral with the chemical formula Na2B4O7⋅10H2O. Borax has a pH of 9.5, placing it roughly halfway between baking soda and washing soda on the pH scale. Unlike baking soda and washing soda, borax is mined instead of manufactured. The majority of household borax comes ...
Where does borax come from?
Unlike baking soda and washing soda, borax is mined instead of manufactured. The majority of household borax comes from dried lakes in California and Turkey , and popular brands like 20 Mule Team Borax advertise it primarily as a laundry booster. Because borax is alkaline and forms a basic solution in water, it offers many ...
Can you mix borax and baking soda?
Note: Even though baking soda, washing soda, and borax are all different, rest assured that they are safe to combine. In fact, I add all three to the recipe for my favorite homemade laundry detergent, along with Fels-Naptha bar laundry soap!
How to clean a steamer with Borax?
Remove furniture from the room and vacuum. The ideal ratio is ½ cup of Borax to 1 gallon of hot water. Dissolve the Borax in the water and place in your steam cleaner’s tank. If you’re not able to remove all of the furniture from the room, make sure it’s protected.
How to get rid of a stain on a carpet?
Then, cover it with a damp rag. Next, pressing on the rag with the curved of a spoon, work the Borax into the stain.
What is the best way to clean a carpet?
Depending on what you need to do to your carpet, you’ll need the following: Baking soda. Paper towels. Dish soap (if necessary) Vinegar (if necessary) Hot water. Essential oils (bonus) The three ways to use baking soda to clean carpet are to remove odors and greasy and non-greasy stains.
How to get rid of carpet odor?
The first thing you’ll want to do is sprinkle baking soda where the carpet smell or odor might be located. It might just be one specific spot where you know your pet hangs out a lot or where your kid peed that one time.
How to get rid of a smell in a carpet?
Use Baking Soda to Get Rid of Odors. The first way you can use baking soda on your carpets is to get rid of odors. This includes pet odors or even odors from past food stains. This is essential because you may not see the carpet stain, but your whole house will have an unpleasant smell.
How to get rid of grease stains on a carpet?
Apply Dish Soap If Necessary. The next day you’ll want to vacuum the area. If you notice that there’s still a stain, then you can apply a little bit of dish soap . Just as you did in the first step, you’ll have to blot the soap into the stain to reduce the amount of grease.
Can you remove a stain from a carpet?
If you let a stain or odor in your carpet for a long time, then it may be more difficult to remove it. In that case, you may need to repeat this process. You can do this as much as you want until you achieve the results you want.
Can baking soda be used to remove greasy carpet?
You could also have a carpet stain that is not greasy. If this is your case, then it will be much easier to remove the stains with baking soda! The steps for this are just the same as the other methods. The difference here is that you need to lightly mist the stained area with hot water.
Can I Use Baking Soda To Clean My Carpet?
Of course, you can. This household ingredient makes a great carpet cleaner. It’s one of the ingredients in many homemade cleaning recipes and can do so much good all over your house or apartment.
How To Clean Carpet With Baking Soda?
First and foremost, gather hot water, dish soap, a spray bottle, sponge, paper towels or old rags, and of course, baking soda.
Pros And Cons Of Cleaning With Baking Soda
Now that you know how to clean carpet with baking soda, let’s take a closer look at both the advantages and disadvantages of cleaning with baking soda.
How Long Do You Leave Baking Soda On Carpet?
The longer you leave baking soda on your carpet, the better. Sprinkle proper amounts of this compound on the affected area or sprinkle the whole carpet to ensure you don’t miss any odors or stains. Let it stay for a couple of hours or overnight, depending on how smelly or dirty your carpet is.
Does Baking Soda Ruin Carpet?
Absolutely not. On the contrary, baking soda will clean and refresh your carpet. However, it can damage the underlay or your floor beneath because it’s hard to remove every bit of baking soda from the carpet afterward. Baking soda is safe for people and pets and won’t cause fading or discoloration.
Does Baking Soda Kill Mold?
Unlike commercial mold removers that contain strong chemicals, baking soda is mild (pH of 8.1). So, it’s safe for people and animals. And besides cleaning your carpet, baking soda can also kill mold.
What Happens If You Leave Baking Soda On Carpet?
You can leave this ingredient on your carpet overnight. As I already stated, the longer you let it stay, the greater it can work to absorb moisture and odors.
Homemade Carpet Freshener
I’ve already made one homemade carpet freshener on The Homemade Experiment, but I’ve also seen this other recipe around the internet so I wanted to try it out.
Step One
Measure out 1 cup of borax and add it to your mixing bowl, or directly into your shaker if it’s big enough for you to shake and mix it after all your ingredients have been added.
Step Four
Lastly shake in approximately 20 drops of essential oil. I am using pine essential oil for my homemade carpet freshening powder because I love the smell of pine, it reminds me of Christmas and wandering through the forest.
Step Five
Then, depending on what you poured all of your ingredients into, shake or stir you mixture. Get a little rough with it to make sure that you are breaking up the droplets of essential oil, and spreading them fully throughout the mixture. For those of you who took chemistry in high school we’re going for a homogeneous mixture, thanks chemistry class!
Storing Your Carpet Freshening Powder
I’ve prepared my carpet freshening powder in my own homemade mason jar shaker, which you can easily make yourself. You can store it any way that you like, but I recommend using some type of shaker because it makes it much easier to use, and evenly spread on the floor.
Using Your Homemade Carpet Freshener
Simply sprinkle the carpet freshener onto your carpet. Try to spread the powder as evenly as you can across your entire floor. Avoid clumps and piles, shoot for a complete layer that you can barely see on the floor.
My Experience
This carpet freshener powder worked great for me. I found it extremely easy to make and use.
