Borax, also known as sodium borate, is one of those humble household minerals that has quietly proven its worth for generations. Found naturally in dry lake beds and mined for centuries, this white powder has earned its place as a cleaning essential thanks to its wide range of uses — from boosting laundry detergent performance to deodorizing and even keeping pests at bay.

But beyond its traditional cleaning roles, there’s a lesser-known trick involving borax that can make your home fresher and cleaner: placing it on wax paper and sliding it under your fridge. This simple setup addresses two common household concerns — odor and insects — all without constant maintenance or harsh chemicals. Let’s explore how this small hack works and why borax deserves a permanent spot in your cleaning toolkit.

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Understanding the Science and Properties of Borax

Borax is a naturally occurring alkaline mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water. Its mild pH (around 9.5) gives it cleaning and deodorizing abilities without being as corrosive or harsh as synthetic chemicals. When dissolved in water, it breaks down grease, neutralizes odors, and kills bacteria and fungi — making it a versatile cleaning companion for nearly any area of the home.

Because of its ability to soften hard water, borax also boosts the performance of soaps and detergents, allowing them to lather more effectively and clean more thoroughly. It’s eco-friendlier than many chemical cleaners, doesn’t produce strong fumes, and offers long-term stability when stored in a dry container.

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Why Put Borax Under the Fridge?

That dark, warm space beneath your refrigerator is a perfect hideout for crumbs, moisture, and pests. Sliding a small sheet of wax paper sprinkled with borax under the appliance offers dual benefits:

1. Natural Pest Deterrence: Borax repels and kills ants, cockroaches, and other small insects that often seek out warmth and food scraps beneath kitchen appliances.

2. Odor Absorption: Over time, spills and organic debris can create musty smells around your fridge. Borax helps neutralize these odors by absorbing excess moisture and breaking down acidic compounds responsible for unpleasant scents.

This effortless solution keeps the space cleaner for longer, making it easier to maintain your kitchen without constant deep cleaning.

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Step-by-Step: How to Use Borax Under Your Fridge

1. Measure the Space: Cut a piece of wax paper or parchment paper large enough to cover the floor beneath your refrigerator.

2. Apply the Borax: Sprinkle a light, even layer of borax across the paper — about one to two tablespoons should be enough.

3. Slide It Into Place: Use a broom handle or ruler to carefully push the paper under the fridge until it’s centered.

4. Replace as Needed: Refresh the borax every few months or after deep cleaning. If you notice pests returning, add a fresh layer sooner.

This method is completely hands-off and doesn’t require moving your fridge or vacuuming beneath it regularly — saving both time and effort.

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How Borax Naturally Controls Pests

Borax has long been used as a non-toxic pest control solution when handled properly. Insects such as ants, silverfish, and cockroaches are attracted to food particles that may fall behind appliances. When they encounter borax, it adheres to their legs and is later ingested during grooming. The boron content disrupts their digestive system and metabolism, leading to their elimination.

You can enhance this effect by combining borax with a small amount of sugar to create a bait mixture that attracts pests more effectively. However, when using it under appliances, plain borax is usually sufficient for prevention rather than active extermination.

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The Role of Borax in Neutralizing Odors

Borax is also prized for its natural deodorizing power. Its alkaline properties neutralize acidic compounds that cause unpleasant smells, such as those from decaying food or stagnant moisture. When placed under the fridge, borax absorbs these odors before they spread through your kitchen.

Unlike air fresheners that only mask odors, borax actually eliminates the source by binding to odor molecules and preventing bacterial growth. This makes it a quiet but powerful tool for maintaining a consistently clean, fresh-smelling home.

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Safety Tips for Using Borax at Home

Although borax is a natural mineral, it should still be handled with care. Keep these safety guidelines in mind:

• Keep out of reach of children and pets. Ingesting borax can be harmful.

• Avoid inhaling the powder when applying it; use a spoon or scoop to minimize dust.

• Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin, as borax can be mildly irritating on prolonged contact.

• Store in an airtight container to prevent clumping and maintain its effectiveness.

When used responsibly, borax is safe, effective, and far less toxic than many commercial pest repellents and cleaners.

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More Ways to Use Borax Around the House

Borax’s versatility goes far beyond pest control. A few additional ways to put it to work include:

• Laundry Booster: Add half a cup to your washing machine to soften water and enhance detergent performance.

• Carpet Deodorizer: Sprinkle a small amount onto carpets before vacuuming to neutralize odors.

• Stain Remover: Mix borax with water to create a paste for treating stubborn stains on tiles, countertops, or upholstery.

• Bathroom Cleaner: Combine borax with lemon juice to scrub away soap scum and mildew naturally.

With a single box, you can replace multiple chemical cleaners, saving space and money while reducing environmental waste.

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Conclusion: A Small Step Toward a Cleaner, Fresher Home

Placing borax under your refrigerator may seem like a small, even odd, housekeeping trick — but it’s one backed by science and decades of practical use. This simple method combines natural pest control, odor elimination, and easy maintenance into one effortless step.

Borax’s low cost, long shelf life, and impressive versatility make it an unsung hero of home care. By incorporating it into your cleaning routine — especially in hard-to-reach areas like beneath appliances — you’ll enjoy a cleaner, fresher, and healthier kitchen with almost no extra effort.

So next time you reach for the broom or cleaning spray, consider reaching for a box of borax instead. Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most powerful.