Does Family Dollar Sell Borax? Your Comprehensive Guide

Yes, Family Dollar typically sells borax. You can usually find it in the laundry aisle, often near other cleaning supplies. However, product availability can vary depending on the specific store location and current stock. It’s always a good idea to call your local Family Dollar beforehand to confirm if they have borax in stock.

Unpacking Borax: More Than Just Laundry

Borax, also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate, is a naturally occurring mineral compound. While it’s commonly recognized as a laundry booster, its applications extend far beyond freshening up your whites. This versatile product has been used for decades in various household and industrial settings due to its cleaning, deodorizing, and insecticidal properties. Understanding its diverse uses can unlock a whole new level of household problem-solving.

Why Choose Borax?

• Cleaning Powerhouse: Borax acts as a natural cleaner and stain remover. It can help tackle tough stains in your laundry, clean grout, and even remove mildew.

• Deodorizing Properties: Its ability to neutralize odors makes it a great option for freshening up carpets, garbage disposals, and other smelly areas.

• Insect Control: Borax is a known insecticide, particularly effective against ants, roaches, and other common household pests.

• Versatility: From crafting homemade slime to cleaning toilet bowls, borax offers a wide range of applications for DIY enthusiasts and practical homeowners.

Finding Borax at Family Dollar: A Step-by-Step Guide

While Family Dollar generally carries borax, navigating the store to find it can sometimes be a minor quest. Here’s a strategic approach to locate this versatile product:

1. Head to the Laundry Aisle: This is the most likely location for borax. Look for it near laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and stain removers.

2. Check the Cleaning Supplies Section: If you don’t find it in the laundry aisle, scan the general cleaning supplies section. It might be grouped with other household cleaners like bleach and ammonia.

3. Look for the 20 Mule Team Borax: This is the most common brand of borax sold in stores. Keep an eye out for its distinctive packaging.

4. Ask a Store Associate: If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to ask a Family Dollar employee for assistance. They can guide you to the right aisle and confirm if the store has borax in stock.

5. Consider Online Availability: While not always readily advertised, some Family Dollar locations offer online ordering for in-store pickup. Check their website or app to see if borax is available at your local store.

Maximizing Borax: Practical Uses and Tips

Once you’ve secured your borax from Family Dollar, it’s time to put it to work. Here are some practical ways to use borax around your home:

• Laundry Booster: Add 1/2 cup of borax to your washing machine along with your regular detergent to boost its cleaning power and remove stubborn stains.

• Grout Cleaner: Mix borax with water to create a paste, apply it to grout, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.

• Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Pour 1/2 cup of borax into your toilet bowl, let it sit overnight, then flush.

• Carpet Deodorizer: Sprinkle borax on your carpets, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it up.

• Ant Killer: Mix borax with sugar and water to create a bait for ants. Place the mixture near ant trails to eliminate them.

• Homemade Slime: Combine borax with glue, water, and food coloring to create fun and stretchy slime. (Warning: Supervise children closely when making and playing with slime, as borax can be harmful if ingested.)

Safety First: Borax Precautions

While borax is a versatile and effective product, it’s important to use it safely. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:

• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Borax can be harmful if ingested. Store it in a secure location where children and pets cannot access it.

• Avoid contact with eyes and skin: Borax can cause irritation. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling it.

• Do not ingest: Borax is not intended for consumption. If swallowed, seek medical attention immediately.

• Use in well-ventilated areas: Borax can release dust that may irritate the respiratory system. Use it in well-ventilated areas or wear a dust mask.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Borax and Family Dollar

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide even more valuable information:

1. Is the borax sold at Family Dollar the same as boric acid? No, borax (sodium borate) is different from boric acid. While both contain boron, they have different chemical compositions and uses. Boric acid is typically used as an antiseptic and insecticide, while borax is more commonly used as a cleaner and laundry booster.

2. Does Family Dollar sell alternatives to borax? Yes, Family Dollar usually carries alternatives such as washing soda (sodium carbonate) and oxygen bleach, which can be used for similar cleaning purposes.

3. How much does borax typically cost at Family Dollar? The price of borax at Family Dollar can vary, but it’s generally an affordable cleaning product. Expect to pay between $5 and $8 for a box.

4. Can I use borax to kill roaches? Yes, borax can be used to kill roaches. Mix it with sugar and water to create a bait that will attract and eliminate them.

5. Is borax safe for septic systems? In small amounts, borax is generally considered safe for septic systems. However, avoid using excessive amounts, as it could potentially disrupt the balance of bacteria in the system.

6. Can I use borax to remove mold? Yes, borax can be effective in removing mold. Mix it with water to create a solution, apply it to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.

7. Does Family Dollar carry different sizes of borax boxes? Usually, Family Dollar carries one standard size of borax, most often the 20 Mule Team Borax in the 76-ounce box.

8. Can I use borax to clean my washing machine? Yes, you can use borax to clean your washing machine. Add 1/2 cup of borax to the empty machine and run a hot water cycle.

9. Is borax environmentally friendly? Borax is a naturally occurring mineral, but it’s still important to use it responsibly. Avoid using excessive amounts and dispose of it properly.

10. Can I use borax to clean jewelry? Yes, you can use borax to clean jewelry. Mix it with warm water to create a solution, soak the jewelry for a few minutes, then scrub gently and rinse.

11. What is the shelf life of borax? Borax has a very long shelf life and does not expire. However, it’s best to store it in a dry place to prevent clumping.

12. Are there any coupons available for borax at Family Dollar? Check the Family Dollar website, app, and Sunday newspaper inserts for potential coupons on borax and other cleaning supplies. Also, consider signing up for Family Dollar‘s rewards program for exclusive deals and discounts.