What is the Difference Between Borax and Baking Soda?

Borax and baking soda are both naturally occurring salts used as cleaning agents, but they have some differences in their properties and uses:

1. pH: Borax has a pH of 9.5, while baking soda has a pH of 8, making borax significantly more alkaline than baking soda.
2. Safety: Baking soda is safe for consumption, while borax should not be eaten, inhaled, or exposed to your skin. Baking soda is considered a milder cleaning agent than borax.
3. Chemical Composition: Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), while borax is sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Na2B4O7).

Both borax and baking soda can be used for cleaning and deodorizing various surfaces, as well as in laundry detergents. However, due to its higher alkalinity, borax may be more effective in certain situations, such as cleaning drains, disinfecting surfaces, and removing rust stains. On the other hand, baking soda is often preferred for its milder nature and safety for consumption, making it a popular choice for cooking recipes and pet owners.

Comparative Table: Borax vs Baking Soda

The main differences between borax and baking soda are their alkalinity and chemical composition. Here is a comparison table highlighting these differences:

Borax is a naturally occurring salt with the chemical composition of sodium borate, while baking soda is a chemical compound known as sodium bicarbonate. Borax is more alkaline than baking soda, with a pH of 9.5 compared to baking soda's pH of 8. Baking soda is safe for consumption, but borax should not be eaten, inhaled, or exposed to the skin. Both borax and baking soda are used as cleaning agents, but borax is generally considered a harsher cleaning agent due to its higher alkalinity.