How To Use Borax Instead Of TSP

Trisodium phosphate — also known as TSP — is a heavy-duty cleaning agent that removes grease and dirt while killing mold. Like TSP, borax successfully cleans a variety of surfaces as well as removes mold and mildew. However, borax consists of sodium borate and does not contain harsh chemicals. Choosing to use borax instead of TSP will allow you to clean the surface and kill fungus without the use of chemicals that can cause skin irritation.

Step 1

Fill one 5-gallon bucket with a gallon of cool water. Instead of using 1/4 cup TSP, substitute 1/4 cup of borax. Pour the borax into the bucket and mix with a wooden spoon.

Step 2

Saturate a sponge in the mixture. Hold the sponge over the bucket. Squeeze the sponge to remove the excess liquid.

Step 3

Wipe the surface with the damp sponge. Submerge the sponge into the mixture when it becomes dry or dingy. Wring out the excess liquid. You can use borax to clean areas such as sinks, window and mirrors. You can also use this borax-and-water mixture to clean walls before you paint.

Step 4

Continue wiping the surface with the sponge until you have thoroughly cleaned the item.

Step 5

Fill a clean bucket with cool water. Dampen a cloth in the water and wring out the excess liquid. Rinse the surface by wiping with the damp cloth. Allow the surface to air-dry.