Borax Substitute is a naturally occurring double salt known as Sodium sesquicarbonate. It contains no Boron and is therefore mush safer than Borax which was traditionally used around the home as a multi-purpose cleaning product. 

Common Uses of Sodium Sesquicarbonate

• Laundry booster – helps detergents work better, especially in hard water.
• Water softener – binds minerals like calcium and magnesium.
• Household cleaner – useful for sinks, baths, tiles, and other washable surfaces.
• Degreaser – helps break down oils and grime.
• Odour remover – can help neutralize odours in fabrics and around the home.

• Safety
• Avoid inhaling dust.
• Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin, as it is alkaline and may cause irritation.
• Keep away from children and pets.
• Do not mix with acids in a closed container, as the reaction releases carbon dioxide gas.
  
  How to use: 
  
  

• Task	Sodium Sesquicarbonate per Litre of Water
  Light cleaning (countertops, painted surfaces)	5–10 g/L
  General-purpose cleaner (kitchens, bathrooms, floors)	10–20 g/L
  Heavy grease, soap scum, grimy surfaces	20–40 g/L
  Soaking dirty items (pots, tools, cloths)	20–50 g/L

  Practical Measurements

  Approximate conversions:

  • 1 teaspoon ≈ 5 g
  • 1 tablespoon ≈ 15 g

• So for a spray bottle:

  • 500 mL bottle: 1–2 teaspoons for general cleaning.
  • 1 L bottle: 2–4 teaspoons for general cleaning.

• Laundry
• Add 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 g) to a wash load as a detergent booster and water softener.
• Notes
• It works best in warm water.
• Rinse surfaces that come into direct contact with food.
• Avoid prolonged use on aluminum, as alkaline cleaners can dull or corrode it.
• Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin, since it is moderately alkaline.

• Garden Uses

  1. Fungicide (especially powdery mildew)

  A dilute solution of sodium sesquicarbonate can help suppress fungal diseases such as powdery mildew on some plants. It works by raising the pH on the leaf surface, making conditions less favourable for fungal growth.

  A typical homemade spray is often in the range of 5–10 g per litre of water (follow any product-specific instructions if you're using a commercial preparation).

  2. Cleaning Garden Equipment

  It can be used to clean pots, seed trays, greenhouse surfaces, and tools by helping remove dirt, algae, and organic residues.
  
  Image for illustration only. 
  
  Description generated partly with the help of AI.