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Is Bicarbonate of Soda a Substitute For Borax?

Can somebody tell me if I can substitute Bicarbonate of Soda(easily available here) instead of Borax (non-existent here) when I make up my own homemade washing powder? I'm using plain soap(grated) and washing soda as my ingredients but I feel I need a bit more boosting to the mix. something to brighten and whiten clothes would help but i don't know what to add. any suggestions please? p.s. I use vinegar as a fabric softener in my final rinse, too.

Cettina from Malta, Europe

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RE: Is Bicarbonate of Soda a Substitute For Borax?

I'm pretty sure bicarbonate of soda is baking soda. I wouldn't use it if you are also using vinegar-- the chemical reaction might create a foamy mess.

Post by Allison

RE: Is Bicarbonate of Soda a Substitute For Borax?

Borax is a brand name for washing soda which you referred to in your post.

Post By Carol in PA (Guest Post)

RE: Is Bicarbonate of Soda a Substitute For Borax?

No, it is not the same...Borax contains sodium tetraborate decahydrate.....(I copied it off the Box I have)....I found a 800 telephone number you can call to ask questions about it....perhaps you can call that number and find out where you can get it in your area.....Tele. #...1-800-457-8739

Post By suzin (Guest Post)

RE: Is Bicarbonate of Soda a Substitute For Borax?

from wat i can gather, best substitute for borax is clothes bleach. i can get that here so it wont be a problem to substitute. tks for all the suggestions.

Post by cett

RE: Is Bicarbonate of Soda a Substitute For Borax?

It depends what you are wanting to use the Borax for ---- 'bi carb' aka "baking soda" and/or washing soda are similar for softening hard water and thus allowing detergents to work better at cleaning clothes however Borax is a fabric 'friendly' bleach alternative - in Canada we have a product which promotes as the 'bleach for unbleachables' usually used on colored fabrics or those which bleach can harm! Sunlight itself also is a wonderful 'bleach alternative' you might try it!

Post By janbou (Guest Post)

RE: Is Bicarbonate of Soda a Substitute For Borax?

You can also buy super washing soda for your laundry. just google it. It's available online if you can't find it at your local super market.

Post by MartyD

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