Difference Between Washing Soda and Borax (Explained)

Borax and washing soda are two common household staples that are often used for cleaning and laundry.

While they may seem similar at first glance, there are actually some key differences between the two.

In this article, we’ll look at what borax and washing soda have in common and what makes them different, as well as their uses and possible replacements.

Here’s a quick and upfront answer if you don’t like to read the entire article:

The main difference between washing soda and borax is their chemical composition. Washing soda with the chemical formula Na2CO3 also known as sodium carbonate is more alkaline than borax. On the other hand, borax, which is a hydrated borate of sodium with the chemical formula Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O, has a lower pH level when compared to washing soda.

Ingredients in washing soda and borax

Both washing soda and borax are chemical compounds, so they don’t have any ingredients.

Washing soda is made up of sodium carbonate, which is a naturally occurring mineral, and borax is made up of sodium tetraborate, which is a boron mineral that is mined from the earth.

Uses of Borax and Washing Soda

Laundry Detergent

Both borax and washing soda can be used as laundry detergent boosters.

When added to your regular laundry detergent, it can help boost its cleaning power and remove stains more effectively.

To use borax or washing soda as a laundry detergent, simply add 1/2 cup borax or washing soda along with your laundry detergent in the washing machine, and you should have a powerful cleaner ready.

Cleaning

Borax and washing soda can both be used to clean different things around the house.

When mixed with water, they can be used to clean and disinfect sinks, toilets, and countertops.

They can also be used as a mild abrasive to scrub away tough stains on surfaces like ovens, tile, and grout.

To use borax or washing soda as a cleaning agent, mix 1/2 cup of either solution with 1/4 cup of warm water to make a paste.

Next, apply the paste to the surface to be cleaned and scrub with a brush or sponge.

Homemade Cleaning Solutions

Both borax and washing soda can be used as ingredients in homemade cleaning solutions as well.

They can be used in combination with other natural ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice to make an all-purpose cleaner or a heavy-duty oven cleaner.

Other Uses

Both borax and washing soda have also been used for other purposes like insect control, as a fungicide, and in homemade personal care products like deodorant and toothpaste.

However, washing soda is more effective at removing grease and oil, while borax is more effective as a stain remover and brightener.

Key Differences

Washing Soda	Borax
Alkaline with a pH of 11 and above.	Alkaline with a pH of 9 to 9.13.
Stronger cleaning power	Milder cleaning power.
Can be used for heavy-duty cleaning tasks, such as removing grease and stains.	Typically used as a laundry booster or mildew remover.
Chemical formula: Na2CO3.	Chemical formula Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O.
More effective in removing oil and grease.	It works best on stains and is less effective in removing oil and grease.

Substitutes for Borax and Washing Soda

Borax Substitutes

If you are unable to find borax or prefer not to use it, there are a few substitutes that you can use instead.

Some of these substitutes include baking soda, boron powder, and Epsom salt.

Washing soda substitutes

Some of these substitutes that you can use instead of washing soda include baking soda, soda ash, and trisodium phosphate.

Can you substitute washing soda for borax?

Since the chemical compositions of borax and washing soda are not the same, it won’t be right to say that you can substitute one for the other. However, because their cleaning properties are similar, you can use either of them to get your laundry clean.

Remember, this is only a workaround to achieve the closest possible result.

Washing soda is more alkaline than borax, so it cleans better. However, it may not give the same results as borax.

Which is better borax or baking soda?

Both borax and washing soda have unique properties and uses, and which one is better depends on the specific task or problem you are trying to solve.

If you have hard water or need to remove oily or greasy stains, washing soda may be more effective.

If you want to boost the cleaning power of your laundry detergent or want a fabric softener, borax could be a better choice.

It’s important to remember that, washing soda is more alkaline than borax, meaning it has more cleaning power but can also be harsher on fabric.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, understanding the similarities and differences between borax and washing soda, as well as their various uses and potential substitutes, can help you make informed decisions about how to use these household staples effectively and safely.

It’s also important to note that there are potential health and environmental concerns associated with using borax and washing soda, so it’s always a good idea to use them in moderation and with proper ventilation.

If you prefer not to use them or are unable to find them, there are substitutes available, such as baking soda, boron powder, Epsom salt, soda ash, and trisodium phosphate.

The bottom line is that, even though they may seem similar at first glance, they are actually different in both chemical composition and the results they yield.

Frequently Asked Questions