No, Borax and Arm & Hammer Washing Soda are not the same thing. Although they are both used as laundry boosters and household cleaners, they have different chemical compositions and properties.
Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral that is composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water. It is typically found in arid regions and is mined from the ground. Borax is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water and has a variety of household uses. It is often used as a laundry booster to help remove stains and brighten whites, as well as a cleaning agent for carpets, toilets, and other surfaces. Borax is also used in the manufacture of glass and ceramics, as a flame retardant, and as a preservative for wood.
Arm & Hammer Washing Soda, on the other hand, is a synthetic product that is made by heating sodium carbonate (also known as soda ash) to high temperatures. This process removes water molecules and creates a more concentrated form of sodium carbonate that is known as washing soda. Arm & Hammer Washing Soda is a white, granular substance that is soluble in water and is often used as a laundry booster to help remove tough stains and odors. It can also be used as a household cleaner and is effective at removing grease, grime, and other types of dirt.
While both Borax and Arm & Hammer Washing Soda can be used as laundry boosters and household cleaners, they have some key differences. For example, Borax is generally considered to be more effective at removing stains and brightening whites, while Arm & Hammer Washing Soda is better at removing odors and cutting through grease and grime. Additionally, Borax has a higher pH level than Washing Soda, which means it can be more effective at killing bacteria and other microorganisms.
In conclusion, while Borax and Arm & Hammer Washing Soda may seem similar, they are actually different substances with different chemical compositions and properties. Borax is a naturally occurring mineral that is composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water, while Arm & Hammer Washing Soda is a synthetic product that is made by heating sodium carbonate. Both can be effective as laundry boosters and household cleaners, but they have different strengths and may be better suited for different cleaning tasks.