Growing up, chances are your parents kept a box of Borax under the kitchen sink. If that was the case, you likely have a box of your own now. To sum it up, Borax is a wonderful product that can be used around the house in so many ways. Here they are!
1. Deodorizes Mattresses
Over time, mattresses can accumulate unpleasant odors. To remove them, mix together one part Borax and three parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on your mattress, then let it dry. Vacuum up any leftover residue.
2. Rids Pests
To get rid of flies, cockroaches, and more, make a mixture of equal parts Borax and sugar. The solution will draw in the pests but kill them once they consume it. Just be sure that this mixture is not accessible to pets or children.
3. Combats Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is gross, but a paste of Borax, baking soda, and water can help combat it. Just apply the solution to the nail and it should be gone in a couple of days.
4. Deodorizes Carpets
To freshen up musty carpets, sprinkle some Borax on them. Wait about 15 minutes, then vacuum the residue up.
5. Unclogs Drains
No need to buy speciality drain cleaners when Borax will do the trick. Just sprinkle some Borax down a clogged drain followed by hot water.
6. Cleans Shower Tiles
To remove mold and mildew from your shower tiles and grout, make a paste using Borax and water. Apply the paste to your shower tiles and let it sit overnight. In the morning, use a scrub brush and water to rinse everything off.
7. Kills Weeds
If weeds are taking over your garden, mix together some Borax and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution directly onto the weed in question.
8. General Household Cleaner
Like distilled vinegar, Borax can be used to clean a number of surfaces in your home. Just mix together some Borax, water, and lemon juice in a spray bottle for a natural, effective cleaner.
9. Refreshes Laundry
To remove stains, deodorize clothing, and make your whites whiter, add half a cup of Borax to your washing machine and wash on a regular cycle.
10. Removes Rust
To remove rust from just about anything, make a solution of one part Borax and two parts warm water. Apply the solution to the object in question and the rust will flake away much more easily.
11. Cleans Toilet Bowls
For a clean, deodorized, and shiny-looking toilet bowl, pour about half a cup of Borax into the toilet. Let it sit overnight, then use a toilet brush to scrub it in the morning.
12. Removes Adhesive
To remove annoying, stuck-on adhesives, apply a mixture of one part Borax and two parts warm water to the sticky area. It will come off much more easily.
13. Cleans Stainless Steel
Mix together about half a cup of Borax with a gallon of hot water. Use a sponge or cloth to apply the mixture to your stainless steel appliances and sink, then wipe clean.
14. Helps Fruit Trees Grow
To encourage fruit trees to grow, sprinkle some Borax around the base of the tree every few years. This adds boron to the soil, and will make them grow faster.
15. Deodorizes Garbage Cans
To prevent gross food odors from stinking up your garbage can, sprinkle some Borax in the bottom of the bag every time you put in a fresh one.
16. Deodorizes The Fridge
If you’ve spilled some food or sauce in your fridge, use a combination of water and Borax to clean up the spill. Not only will this clean your fridge, but it will also deodorize it.
17. Cleans Hairbrushes
Many of us don’t ever think to clean our hairbrushes, but they can accumulate a ton of germs. Try soaking your brushes and combs in a mixture of Borax, water, and liquid dish soap once a month, rinsing well afterwards.
18. Cleans Up Pet Accidents
If your furry friend has an accident on the carpet, rub at the spot with a rag soaked in hot water. Then, sprinkle some Borax on the spot. Let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up.
19. Cleans China Dishes
If your china dishes are looking a little dull and grimy, soak them in a mixture of hot water and Borax. After about an hour, rinse well and they’ll look brand new again.