If you’re hesitant about using borax for your green cleaning due to health and safety concerns, read on to find safer, greener, and more effective substitutes. Ahead, 12 ways you can switch out borax for another toxic-free ingredient. Instead of borax, use a paste of baking soda and water to clean the fridge, and then use a rag or sponge to rinse it off well with water. A multipurpose lemon and lime spray is another recommendation; this mixture uses fresh citrus juices and vinegar.