I actually discovered the miracles of Borax while working on a science project last year. Marcus and I were going to make homemade laundry detergent, wash one in the homemade and another in store bought and compare cleaniness. (results will follow at the end of the post) After purchasing the Borax I noticed, on the package, there were other household uses.
We don't make our own laundry detergent but I do use in every wash. With a very active teenage son I was finding that his clothes would still have a scent of prespiration after being washed. The Borax eliminates the smell. Matter of fact, I no longer use fabric softner because the clothes smell so clean. (by the way, fabric softner is not good for your clothes)
You'll find Borax in your laundry section, next to the powder laundry detergent,at the store. 20 Mule Borax is the most common brand. It's very affordable and with the multiple uses you'll save even more money. I recommend purchasing the larger box, it's a great value.
Please read the article 'The Many Household Uses of Borax' by Barbara Whiting, Stay at Home Parents About.com Guide. She also includes the top 10 ways to use Borax around your home.
The science project results are as follows: No difference in cleaniness. The handmade laundry soap load did smell better.
