Borax, or sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral that’s been trusted in households for generations. Known for its wide range of uses—from cleaning to deodorizing to pest control—it’s a staple in many homes. One clever but lesser-known trick involves sprinkling borax on wax paper and placing it under the fridge. This simple method can solve a couple of common household problems at once.
What Makes Borax So Useful?
Borax is a fine white powder that dissolves easily in water and has mild alkaline properties. These characteristics make it an effective cleaner and disinfectant, especially when paired with soaps or detergents. On top of that, it naturally neutralizes odors and repels pests, making it a multitasking essential in home care.
Why Put Borax Under the Fridge?
That hidden space beneath your fridge is a magnet for crumbs, spills, and pests. Sliding a sheet of wax paper sprinkled with borax under the appliance helps in two ways:
Pest Control – Cockroaches, ants, and other insects love dark, warm spaces. Borax acts as a deterrent, keeping them away.
Odor Elimination – Food particles and spills often cause lingering smells. Borax absorbs and neutralizes these odors, keeping your kitchen fresher.
How to Do It Step by Step
- Cut a piece of wax paper that fits under your fridge.
- Sprinkle a thin, even layer of borax across it.
- Carefully slide the wax paper into place, covering as much of the area as possible.
- When it’s time to refresh, simply pull out the paper and replace it with a new one.
How Borax Works Against Pests
Borax is toxic to many insects, including ants and cockroaches. When they come into contact with it, their digestive systems are disrupted, eventually killing them. By creating a borax barrier under your fridge, you make the space far less inviting for unwanted bugs.
Odor-Fighting Power
Borax’s deodorizing ability comes from its capacity to neutralize acidic smells. Placed under the fridge, it works quietly to absorb unpleasant odors from food residue, helping your kitchen smell clean and fresh.
Safety Tips
- Although borax is safe for general household use, it should always be handled carefully:
- Keep it away from children and pets, as ingestion is harmful.
- Avoid breathing in the powder.
- Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
- Store in a sealed container to keep it effective and prevent accidents.
Other Ways to Use Borax at Home
- Borax’s usefulness doesn’t stop under the fridge. It can also:
- Boost laundry detergent for cleaner, brighter clothes.
- Remove tough stains from carpets and upholstery.
- Clean mold and mildew in bathrooms.
Final Thoughts
Borax is a budget-friendly, versatile product that tackles multiple household problems at once. Whether you’re fighting odors, keeping pests at bay, or boosting your cleaning routine, this mineral is a powerful ally. Try the wax paper trick under your fridge, and you’ll likely notice a fresher, cleaner, and more pest-free home in no time.
