where to find BORAX

MATH

Pence per gram soda crystals are more expensive than economy bio powder so how can you save money using them as a detergent stretcher? When I last did the calculation it was more cost effective to either a: use more economy powder or b: use a quality brand and bulk up with economy powder.

tru

furrypig wrote:

might just try mixing soda crystals with washing powder instead!

I've just started mixing grated soap with soda crystals, it works fine.

apple_mint

I mix grated soup, borax and soda crystal (found recipe for this on Money Saving Old Style). I put less in the dispenser (one spoonful for normal wash, 2 spoonsful for soiled items) and I am more than happy with the results. The ingredients last ages and I think (but not sure) it's environmentally friendly? I get my Borax from Boots. Borax is supposed to be good for getting rid of ants.

furrypig

apple_mint wrote:

I mix grated soup, borax and soda crystal (found recipe for this on Money Saving Old Style). I put less in the dispenser (one spoonful for normal wash, 2 spoonsful for soiled items) and I am more than happy with the results. The ingredients last ages and I think (but not sure) it's environmentally friendly? I get my Borax from Boots. Borax is supposed to be good for getting rid of ants.

Tee hee hee!

I have only tried grated soap!!
Seriously I wonder if I am using too much of this mixture in my wash and that's why I think it is less economical than previously thought!!

thriftlady_2

I'm keen to try this recipe for hm soap powder from the wonderful Rhonda Jean's blog. Apparently you can no longer buy Lux soap flakes here. I've looked on Tesco online and they have no soap flakes or borax at all. Anyone know where to get them from ?

I love Rhonda's laundry box-I've tracked one down from John Lewis. I'm being good though and using an old ice cream tub.

Penelope_Penguin

Hi, thriflady! I last bought borax from Boots. No idea if it's still available from there.

Older threads here :

Where to get borax?

Where to buy borax?

Penny. x

rhonda_jean

Hello Thriftlady and Pennelope. We can buy borax, washing soda and Lux flakes in all our supermarkets here, but you do have to look becuase they're either on the top or bottom shelf - never at eye level. I you can't find soap flakes, just grate a cake of yellow laundry soap. That will serve you well. If you're using your washing water on your garden, leave out the borax, as it will lead to a build up of boron, which the plants don't like.

I've been using the washing poder for years now and have never had a problem with it. Good luck with your search, thriftylady.

thriftlady_2

Thanks ladies, that's a big help.

I'm really enjoying your blog Rhonda Jean, you're an inspiration:)

saving-grace

I have a packet of soap flakes in my cupboard ( following a tip on here to use the suds to clean my leather suite - only this method didn't suit me).
Anyway they're just labelled Soap Flakes and the manufactuer is Dri Pak (the soda crystals people) and I would have bought them in Sainsbury's or possibly Tesco.
I know I've seen borax in Boots recently and I think they sell soap flakes too.
HTH.

moanymoany

I bought soap flakes and washing soda in Tesco's. Borax can probably be bought from your pharmacist, give them a ring and ask.