Expert: Dr. Henry Boyter, Jr. - 10/23/2005

Question
You've probably encountered the back-end of this situation in your wastewater management.  After running out of dishwasher detergent last week, I googled for a temporary substitute.  Two sites recommended 1 Tablespoon Borax and 1 Tablespoon Baking Soda per load.  It seemed to work well, removing grease and leaving glasses reasonably clean, but I'm not sure about possible unseen residues.  
Another google search on standard dishwasher detergents showed a number of ingredients that were designed to maintain and lubricate the dishwasher's mechanical parts, etc. that are obviously not in the new mix.
I'm all for cheaper alternatives, but not at the risk of poisoning the family, or at the expense of shortening my machine's life.
Would you please evaluate these factors in my borax/soda mixture?

Thank you.

Answer
Your substitute will not work as well as the good commercial products, will be rougher on the machine, and as you say, it is a substitute in a pinch.  Once in a while would be no problem.  I would rinse the dishes after using it however.  Borax can also be used as a pesticide in pure form.  It is good for ants, but humans have to eat a bunch to hurt them.  Borax is also part of many of the "oxygen" cleaners and boosters for clothes on the market.

Think about it this way.  If it is cheaper and worked as well, the commercial companies would be selling it to you in a fancy box and making a higher profit.