Borax Decahydrate: What It Is and Why It's Essential in Cleaning and Soap Making
The unsung hero of natural cleaning and artisan soap formulation — safe, effective, and powerfully versatile
Borax is a name you’ve probably heard if you’ve ever explored natural cleaning solutions or dabbled in soap making. But what exactly is borax decahydrate, and how does it stand out in the cleaning world? Let’s dive deep into this naturally occurring mineral and uncover why it’s a staple for DIY enthusiasts, eco-conscious households, and professional soap artisans alike.
What Is Borax Decahydrate?
Borax, chemically known as sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O), is a soft, white crystalline powder mined from evaporated lake beds in places like California and Turkey. The “decahydrate” refers to its 10 bound water molecules, giving it excellent solubility and stability in water-based formulations.
Borax Decahydrate in the Cleaning Industry
For over a century, borax has been a cornerstone of household and industrial cleaning. Its multi-functional nature stems from its ability to:
- Soften Water: Binds calcium and magnesium ions, boosting detergent efficiency in hard water areas.
- Neutralise Odours: Converts odour-causing acids into harmless salts.
- Act as a Mild Abrasive: Gently scrubs without scratching porcelain, glass, or enamel.
- Inhibit Microbial Growth: Creates an environment hostile to mold, mildew, and bacteria.
Why Soap Makers Love Borax Decahydrate
In soap making—especially cold process, hot process, and liquid soap—borax plays critical behind-the-scenes roles:
- pH Buffer: Stabilises alkalinity during saponification and curing.
- Emulsion Stabiliser: Prevents separation in cream soaps and liquid castile formulations.
- Cleaning Booster: Enhances surfactant power in laundry bars and dish bars.
- Preservative Aid: Extends shelf life in high-water recipes when paired with proper pH control.
The Go-To Natural Cleaning Ingredient
Whether you’re crafting zero-waste dishwasher tablets, all-purpose sprays, or heavy-duty scrub pastes, borax decahydrate delivers consistent, biodegradable performance without synthetic additives. It’s approved for use in ECOCERT and USDA organic cleaning products when properly formulated.
DIY Natural Laundry Powder with Borax (HE & Standard Machine Safe)
This eco-friendly, budget-conscious powder tackles dirt, odours, and stains—naturally.
- 2 cups borax decahydrate
- 2 cups washing soda (sodium carbonate)
- 1 bar natural soap (castile, coconut, or tallow), finely grated
- Optional: 10–15 drops essential oil (lavender, lemon, tea tree)
- Grate soap bar into fine flakes using a food processor or cheese grater.
- Combine borax, washing soda, and soap flakes in a large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until uniform.
- Add essential oils drop by drop while stirring.
- Store in an airtight jar away from moisture.
Use: 1–2 Tbsp per load. For extra dirty loads, dissolve in warm water first.
Safety, Sourcing & Storage
- Safe When Used Properly: Borax is non-toxic in small amounts but should be kept away from children and pets. Avoid ingestion or eye contact.
- Store Cool & Dry: Prevents clumping and preserves decahydrate structure.
- Choose USP/Food Grade: Ensures purity for soap and cleaning use.
Click & Collect available at Springvale South store