Actually now that I think about it I normally use Oxalic acid and not borax. Oxalic acid comes in crystals that I mix with hot water (ops).

On to a new subject, I have a question for you. You have mentioned the MCA (Minnesota Canoe Association) a few times recently, so are you a member? And if so do you know where and when there next get together is. I would like to go and see what they are about.

Jason (in St Paul)

: OK, there seems to be some confusion about the materials involved. Borax is
: an alkaline compound, sodium borate. Boric acid is an acid.

: Borax is used in the home as a washing additive to soften water and emulsify
: dirt. It is what I suggest as a compound for washing away mildew. A common
: brand is "20 Mule Team" borax.

: "Boraxo" is a tradename for a washing material which has borax in
: it, but I'm not sure what else is in it. You might try it if you want to
: experiment.

: Boric acid is used in the home as an antiseptic, in weak solutions as an eye
: wash, or in greater concentrations as a bug killer. (Roach Prufe is
: something like 98% boric acid) This is not the material I suggested.

: All these materials are derived chemically from the element Boron, and that
: is where the similarity ends. they are wuite different materials.
: Confusing boric acid for borax is like confusing table salt (sodium
: chloride) with laundry bleach (sodium hypochlorite). Ain't chemistry
: grand!

: hope this helps

: PGJ