DIY Network

Borax: Recipes From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-140

The Queen of Clean, Linda Cobb, shares some borax cleaning recipes in this final segment.

• Roach killer -- Mix 1/3-cup flour, 1/3-cup cornmeal, 1/3-cup borax and one large spoon of sugar together. Stir and store in a lidded, labeled container. Pour any place in the home that attracts bugs. The food attracts them while the borax has a lethal effect on their digestion.

• Hard water ring in commode -- Turn off the water, flush to remove as much water as possible, spray the ring with heated undiluted white vinegar, sprinkle borax on the ring, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then scrub with fine drywall sandpaper.

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Figure A

• Mold and mildew on outdoor furniture -- Mix together one teaspoon dish-washing liquid and one teaspoon borax with one quart warm water. Pour in a spray bottle, spray the furniture, let solution soak for 15 minutes, and then rinse and air dry.

• Refrigerator cleaner -- Mix together one quart warm water and one tablespoon borax. Stir and scrub shelves; cleans tough stains and disinfects. Rinse thoroughly (figure B).

• Garbage pails -- Clean with refrigerator cleaner. Sprinkle dry borax in the bottom of the dry pail to help control odors.

• Dishes -- Add 1/2-cup borax to your favorite dish liquid. Safe for antique dishes.

• Carpet spots -- Moisten area with water and sprinkle on borax. The borax will draw the spot out of the carpet. Vacuum when totally dry. If any stain remains apply lemon juice and borax, after testing first in an inconspicuous spot on the carpet. Again, let dry completely before vacuuming.

• Urine stains on a mattress -- Sprinkle on borax, let dry and vacuum. If odor remains, repeat the process.