Question regarding borax

[autumn]

I have become interested in making soap for laundry and dishes. From what I've read, it seems that borax, a primary ingredient in such activities, is safe in the larger quantities. My roommates did ask me about its safety and so I was curious about what the folks here knew about it.

[FloridaWyld]

You can read a full explanation of borox use in soaps from US Borax by downloading a pdf file located here:

http://www.box.net/shared/rqbhu07xdy

You don't want to use Borax in body or hand soap, but it is good for laundry soap. Here's a link to a great recipe for laundry soap:

http://frugalmoma.blogspot.com/2007/09/make-your-own-laundry-soap-revisit.html

[autumn]

Oh thank you so much for that pdf! That was very interesting.

So far, I've tried a 50/50 mix of borax and baking soda in the dishwasher which worked good that time.

I also plan on making laundry soap, once I figure out how much I'm saving in making these detergents so I can show my roommates.

Thanks again for your help!

[sher]

i have been making my laundry soap for about 6 months- using borax,washing SODA, and fells nappa.. works great and pennies a load

[lsg]

Try adding some salt and citric acid to the baking soda and borax mix for the dishwasher. *It makes it work even better.

[Diamon_Girl]

I was wondering about adding essential oils or something to make it smell good, anybody try anything like that?

[theresehirko]

Save your essential oils for something more important. Your dishes don't care if they smell good.