The Top 8 Ways to Use Baking Soda for Cleaning (You Won’t Believe #5!)
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is an actual powerhouse when it comes to keeping your home clean. Not only is it non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here, we’ll walk through eight innovative ways to use baking soda for cleaning that might just surprise you, especially number 5!
1. Freshen Up Your Carpets
Sprinkling baking soda on your carpets can work wonders for removing odors. Simply sprinkle it generously over the surface, wait for about 15-30 minutes, and then vacuum it up. This method is great for pet owners or anyone looking to refresh their living space.
2. Sparkling Bathroom Surfaces
You can make your bathroom tiles, shower, and bathtub sparkle with a simple paste made from baking soda and water. Apply this paste on a sponge or brush and scrub away. The gentle, abrasive nature of baking soda helps remove tough grime without scratching surfaces.
3. Clean Your Oven Without Harsh Chemicals
Mix baking soda with some water to create a clean, thick paste, and then spread it all over the interior of your oven. Let it sit overnight. The next day, wipe away the paste with a damp cloth and spray a little vinegar if needed to remove any leftover residue. This method avoids the fumes and harsh chemicals usually involved in oven cleaning.
4. Brighten Your Laundry
Add half a cup of baking soda to your laundry to boost detergent performance and naturally whiten whites and brighten colors. Baking soda regulates the pH level in the washer’s water, preventing it from becoming too acidic or alkaline.
5. Unclog Drains with Ease
Here’s the one you’ve been waiting for! To unclog your drain, pour down 1 cup of baking soda, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. The combination causes a chemical reaction that fizzles away the gunk, blocking your pipes. After waiting for about an hour, flush the drain with hot water. This method is surprisingly effective and avoids the need for harsh chemical drain cleaners.
6. Revitalize Plastic Containers
Remove stubborn stains and smells from plastic containers by washing them with a mix of baking soda and water. You can also leave a baking soda paste on the most affected areas for a few hours or overnight before washing as usual.
7. Polish Silverware
Make a paste with three parts baking soda and one part water. Apply this paste to your silverware with a clean cloth, rinse, and then dry for a beautiful shine. This gentle cleaner removes tarnish without scratching delicate silver.
8. Deodorize Shoes
Deodorizing shoes is as simple as sprinkling baking soda inside them and letting it sit overnight. The next day, shake out the baking soda, and you’ll notice a significant reduction in odors.
Baking soda proves time and again that you don’t need a cabinet full of cleaners to keep your home in tip-top shape. From laundry to the kitchen sink, its versatility knows no bounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can baking soda damage any surfaces?
While baking soda is safe for most surfaces, it’s always wise to do a spot test before using it on delicate or uncertain materials. Avoid using it on aluminum and non-stick surfaces to prevent scratching or damage.
How does baking soda eliminate odors?
Baking soda neutralizes odors chemically rather than masking them. It does so by balancing pH levels and neutralizing both acidic and basic odors for a fresher environment.
Is there anything baking soda can’t clean?
Baking soda is not effective on deep-set or old stains where a chemical reaction is needed to lift the stain. It’s also less effective on greasy surfaces, where a degreaser would be more appropriate.
Baking soda isn’t just for baking; it’s a multi-purpose cleaning agent that offers a safe, effective, and eco-friendly way to clean almost every corner of your home. Try these tips and see how they transform your cleaning routine!
