Borax vs. Baking Soda: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Published on December 26, 2023
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water, while baking soda is a chemical compound, sodium bicarbonate.
Key Differences
Borax, known scientifically as sodium borate, is a mineral compound and a salt of boric acid. Baking soda, on the other hand, is a pure chemical compound called sodium bicarbonate.
In terms of usage, borax is widely used in laundry detergents, cosmetics, and as an insecticide. While, baking soda is primarily known for its role in baking as a leavening agent, but it is also used in cleaning and deodorizing.
Borax has antifungal and antiseptic properties, making it useful in various household and industrial applications. Whereas, baking soda, recognized for its neutralizing properties, is often used to balance pH levels in both cooking and cleaning contexts.
The chemical composition of borax includes the element boron, which is not present in baking soda. Baking soda consists solely of sodium, carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen.
Safety-wise, borax is considered more hazardous than baking soda and should be used with caution, especially around food and skin. Baking soda is widely regarded as safe for cooking and even personal care.
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Comparison Chart
Chemical Composition
Sodium borate: Na2B4O7·10H2O
Sodium bicarbonate: NaHCO3
Common Uses
Laundry detergents, insecticides, cosmetics
Baking, cleaning, deodorizing
Properties
Antifungal, antiseptic
PH neutralizer, mild abrasive
Element Presence
Contains boron
Lacks boron
Safety
More hazardous, caution advised
Generally safe for cooking and personal care
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Borax and Baking Soda Definitions
Borax
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral, sodium borate.
Borax is a key ingredient in many eco-friendly cleaning products.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is effective in neutralizing odors.
A box of baking soda in the fridge can absorb unwanted odors.
Borax
Borax has insecticidal properties, effective against ants and cockroaches.
A mixture of borax and sugar can be used as an ant bait.
Baking Soda
It's used in personal care products, like toothpaste and deodorants.
Baking soda is added to toothpaste for its whitening effect.
Borax
It is used in cosmetics for its antiseptic qualities.
Some skin care products contain borax for its soothing properties.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, a chemical leavening agent.
Baking soda causes dough to rise by producing carbon dioxide.
Borax
Borax acts as a fire retardant and antifreeze component.
Borax is added to some fire retardant solutions.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used as an antacid to treat heartburn.
A teaspoon of baking soda in water can relieve acid indigestion.
Borax
It serves as a cleaning agent and water softener.
Adding borax to laundry helps remove stubborn stains.
Baking Soda
It's used as a cleaning agent due to its abrasive and neutralizing properties.
Baking soda can remove tough stains from kitchen surfaces.
Borax
A hydrated sodium borate, Na2B4O7·10H2O, an ore of boron, that is used as a cleaning compound.
Borax
Cheap merchandise, especially tasteless furnishings
"today's glinty borax" (New Yorker).
Borax
A white or gray/grey crystalline salt, with a slight alkaline taste, used as a flux, in soldering metals, making enamels, fixing colors/colours on porcelain, and as a soap, etc.
Borax
(chemistry) The sodium salt of boric acid, Na2B4O7, either anhydrous or with 5 or 10 molecules of water of crystallization; sodium tetraborate.
Borax
Cheap or tawdry furniture or other works of industrial design.
Borax
(transitive) To treat with borax.
Borax
A white or gray crystalline salt, with a slight alkaline taste, used as a flux, in soldering metals, making enamels, fixing colors on porcelain, and as a soap. It occurs native in certain mineral springs, and is made from the boric acid of hot springs in Tuscany. It was originally obtained from a lake in Thibet, and was sent to Europe under the name of tincal. Borax is a pyroborate or tetraborate of sodium, Na2B4O7.10H2O.
Borax
An ore of boron consisting of hydrated sodium borate; used as a flux or cleansing agent
FAQs
What is baking soda?
Baking soda is a chemical compound, sodium bicarbonate.
What is borax?
Borax is a natural mineral compound, sodium borate.
Is baking soda edible?
Yes, baking soda is safe for use in food.
What are the cleaning uses of borax?
Borax is used in laundry detergents and general household cleaning.
Can I use baking soda for cleaning?
Yes, baking soda is effective as a cleaning agent.
Is baking soda environmentally friendly?
Yes, baking soda is considered environmentally friendly.
Can baking soda be used as a deodorizer?
Yes, baking soda effectively neutralizes and absorbs odors.
Can borax be used in cooking?
No, borax is not safe for cooking or ingestion.
Can I use baking soda for baking?
Yes, baking soda is commonly used as a leavening agent in baking.
Can baking soda be used for skin care?
Yes, baking soda is often used in personal care products.
Is borax used in fire retardants?
Yes, borax acts as a fire retardant in various applications.
Is baking soda used in oral care products?
Yes, baking soda is often used in toothpaste for its cleaning and whitening properties.
Is borax safe for skin?
Borax can be irritating to the skin; it's advisable to use it cautiously.
Are there any health risks associated with borax?
Yes, borax can be harmful if ingested or inhaled in large quantities.
Is borax a natural substance?
Yes, borax is a naturally occurring mineral.
Does baking soda relieve heartburn?
Yes, baking soda can be used as an antacid to treat heartburn.
What is the role of borax in pest control?
Borax is used as an insecticide, particularly against ants and cockroaches.
How does baking soda affect pH levels?
Baking soda neutralizes acids, thereby balancing pH levels.
Can borax soften water?
Yes, borax can be used as a water softener in laundry.
Can I make slime with borax?
Yes, borax is a popular ingredient in homemade slime recipes.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
