Borax can be used for cleaning, but here are 8 things to avoid

Borax, also known as sodium tetraborate, is a boron mineral salt. Advocates of borax claim it is natural and safe to use as a cleaner, as it is mined directly from the ground. Opponents of borax remind people that anthrax is found naturally in soil too, but that certainly doesn't make it a good cleaner. Somewhere in the middle of this argument lies the person searching for an effective natural cleaner. So what's the deal? Is it safe to clean with borax or not?

In most circumstances, it is safe to clean with borax. Borax is classified as noncarcinogenic. Most instances of borax coming into direct contact with skin and mucous membranes result in redness, burning and irritation. It's important to note, however, that animal studies show borax has the potential to disrupt the reproductive system. Pregnant women and children should never come in contact with it. Always take precautionary measures while cleaning by avoiding the things outlined below.

Do not get borax in your eyes. Borax is corrosive to the eye; contact can cause irritation and burning, and a possible visit to the emergency room. If contact occurs, flush your eyes out with water for 15 minutes. Always wear safety glasses while handling borax.

Don't breathe in borax. Although vacuuming carpets thoroughly may sound like the best way to reduce the risk of exposure, borax dust is known to irritate the respiratory tract, according to the National Library of Medicine. Consider the child who places his hands in his mouth or the pet that licks its paws. If young children, pets or anyone with respiratory issues visits or lives in the home, it's advised not to use borax on carpets.

Before allowing your child to attend a slime-making party or hosting an event of your own, make sure borax is not on the supply list. Kids love slime and they especially love making it. They do not know about the risks and dangers of borax and other slime ingredients. If borax comes into contact with skin, it may cause irritation or even a severe chemical burn.

Wear gloves when handling borax or homemade cleaners made from borax. Exposure to skin may cause redness, rashes or chemical burns. If skin comes into contact with borax, wash it immediately.

Don't buy makeup with borax in it. In many countries, borax is banned for use in makeup. If it is permitted for use, it typically comes with a warning. In the United States, however, borax is still used in many types of makeup. It's best to avoid makeup containing borax, but never apply it to broken skin.

Avoid cleaning toys, especially plush ones, with borax. If children place toys cleaned with borax in their mouths, they may ingest the substance. If borax dust remains in plush, it may be inhaled by a child. Children who ingest borax or breathe it in may experience borax toxicity.

7. Homemade skin products

Numerous websites exist that instruct people to clean their skin and treat acne with borax. Undiluted borax should never be used directly on skin because direct exposure to it can cause a rash, irritation or even toxicity.

The body quickly breaks down borax upon ingestion. Consumption of borax may lead to organ damage and poisonings. If residue of the substance remains on pots, pans and dishes, it may be absorbed by food and consumed. Think about that before putting borax in the dishwasher.