Bicarbonate of soda most commonly known as “Baking Soda” is an everyday household have in their pantries but only reach for on certain occasions, like when a cookie recipe calls for it.
The thing is, it can be used for so much more than baking. In case you don’t already know, baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, a basic chemical compound that’s good for things like baking and cleaning because of the way it reacts with acid.
Its abrasive texture is perfect for scrubbing things that can be hard to clean, like grout or a dirty oven.
Here are 8 helpful uses for baking soda that you never even expected!
1. Clean Your Produce
The best way to get rid of those filthy pesticides from your fruits and vegetables is actually by using baking soda. Soak your produce in a bowl with just 1 teaspoon of baking soda per 2 cups of water or scrub with a damp sponge and there you go!
2. Clean Rugs And Carpets
Freshen up your rugs and get rid of those stains by sprinkling bicarbonate of soda on your carpet. Sprinkle a generous amount over the rug and pour hot water on top. Allow the mixture to sink in overnight and then vacuum over for the best results. If it is a tricky stain, reapply the mixture a few times. Just like that, your carpet is looking new and your wallet didn’t even have to suffer for it!
3. Mouthwash
Tired of having bad breath no matter how hard you try to get rid of it? Mouthwash is the perfect way to reach the far ends of your mouth that a toothbrush just can’t access. Baking soda can be the perfect solution to freshen your breath, while also providing antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits. This recipe is super simple and only contains half a teaspoon of baking soda, warm water, mix as needed.
4. Deodorant
Using baking soda as a deodorant supplement is an easy way to get rid of odors, while not exposing your body to chemicals. All you need is a little bit of baking soda and some water. Rub this mixture under your arms and you’re smelling good as new.
5. Air freshener
Most commercial air fresheners just mask bad smells instead of eliminating bad smells. Also, do we even know what chemicals are contained in these bottles? The answer is no! Baking soda is your safer alternative and interacts with the odors instead of simply covering them up.
6. Whiter and brighter clothing
Just add 1 cup of baking soda to your laundry along with your regular detergent to get cleaner and brighter clothing. This is because baking soda is an alkali, a soluble salt that helps remove and stains. When it interacts with acids in the stains it helps remove them.
7. Bathroom cleaner
Bathrooms can be difficult to clean. Those bathtub marks that just won’t budge, it makes you want to pull your hair out. There’s a variety of products available, but baking soda is your cost-effective cleaning opportunity. It not only whites bathroom surfaces but also disinfects them. It is suitable for anything from bathroom tiles to toilets and everything in between! Create your mixture, rub it throughout the intended area/s, and wipe after 20 minutes.
8. Spa treatment
Feeling overwhelmed from a long week at work but don’t have the funds to treat yourself to a relaxing getaway? You can create a spa in your own bathtub by combining a hot bath with 1 oz of sprinkled baking soda. Not only did you not waste your money, but you didn’t even have to leave your home!
