*Borax Pentahydrate* `Na2B4O7 · 5H2O`
aka *Sodium Tetraborate Pentahydrate, Sodium Borate, "Borax"*
It's the white crystalline powder everyone calls "Borax". The "pentahydrate" just means each borax molecule has 5 water molecules attached. This is the most common form sold.
# *1. Key Properties*
- *Appearance*: White crystals/powder, odorless
- *pH*: Alkaline ∼9.3 in water
- *Solubility*: Dissolves well in hot water
- *Contains*: ∼21% Boron. The Boron is what does the work
# *2. Main Uses*
1. *Laundry Booster & Cleaning - #1 Home Use*
Softens hard water, boosts detergent, removes stains, deodorizes.
Makes water "slippery" so dirt comes off easier.
Also used for DIY slime, laundry starch.
2. *Pest Control*
Kills cockroaches, ants, termites. Less effective than Boric