20 Surprising Ways to Utilize Baking Soda for Cleaning and Freshening
Baking Soda: A Versatile Household Essential
Baking soda, known as sodium bicarbonate, is a common household item with a wide range of uses beyond just baking. Its natural cleaning properties make it a versatile solution for various household chores, including cleaning and freshening.
20 Remarkable Baking Soda Applications
1. Oven Cleaning
Create a paste by combining baking soda with water and apply it to the interior of the oven. Let it sit overnight and wipe away the residue for a sparkling clean oven.
2. Carpet Deodorizing
Sprinkle baking soda over the carpet, let it sit for several hours, and vacuum it up. This removes odors and leaves carpets smelling fresh.
3. Sink and Drain Cleaning
Pour baking soda down the drain and follow with hot water to unclog and deodorize sinks and drains.
4. Dishwashing
Add baking soda to dishwater to remove grease and food residue, leaving dishes sparkling clean.
5. Hummus and Beyond
Baking soda can be used as a natural dough conditioner or leavening agent in various dishes, including hummus, muffins, and biscuits.
6. Deodorizing Refrigerators
Place an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator to absorb odors and keep it fresh.
7. Pet Odor Neutralization
Sprinkle baking soda over pet areas on carpets or furniture to neutralize odors.
8. Mattress Freshener
Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress, let it sit for an hour, and vacuum it up to remove odors and freshen the mattress.
9. Tub and Tile Cleaning
Create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to tubs and tiles. Let it sit for 30 minutes and scrub for a deep clean.
10. Coffee Maker Descaling
Fill the coffee maker with a solution of one part baking soda to two parts water and run a brewing cycle to remove scale buildup.
11. Washing Machine Freshener
Add half a cup of baking soda to the washing machine along with your regular detergent to remove odors and brighten clothes.
12. Dishwasher Refresher
Place a bowl of baking soda on the top rack of the dishwasher during a cycle to eliminate odors and leave dishes smelling clean.
13. Microwave Cleaning
Combine baking soda with water and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for five minutes and wipe down the interior to remove odors and grime.
14. Silverware Polishing
Create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to silverware. Let it sit for a few minutes and rinse to restore its shine.
15. Deodorizing Shoes
Sprinkle baking soda inside shoes overnight and shake it out in the morning to remove odors.
16. Fruit and Vegetable Cleaning
Soak fruits and vegetables in a solution of baking soda and water to remove pesticide residue and grime.
17. Stain Removal
Apply a paste of baking soda and water to stains on fabrics or carpets. Let it sit and then wash or blot to remove stains.
18. Bleach Alternative
Use baking soda as a natural bleach alternative for whites and light-colored fabrics.
19. Teeth Whitening
Mix a small amount of baking soda with toothpaste to create a natural teeth whitener.
20. Ant Deterrent
Sprinkle baking soda around entry points to deter ants from entering the home.
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