Baking soda is a common household item found in many of our pantries. And while this product is traditionally used for baking, there are a number of uses for baking soda. Plus, at its inexpensive price point, you’re sure to get a lot of “bang for your buck.”
From it’s ability to put out small fires to keeping flowers fresh, we’re sharing 40 unexpected ways baking soda can improve your daily life, that are sure to surprise you!
Extend the lifespan of a beautiful floral bouquet using baking soda. Simply place a teaspoon of baking soda into the vase with water. Also, add an ice cube for an extra boost.
Baking soda is one of the easiest and most economical ways to whiten teeth. It helps to remove plaque build-up and surface stains on teeth. Simply brush your teeth with baking soda, after regularly brushing, to keep teeth bright and white.
Tired of constantly washing your hair? Opt for baking soda as dry shampoo, pulling excess oils away from the scalp. Make sure to sprinkle the baking soda with a light hand, and rub in throughly.
4) Wash fruits and vegetables
Washing fruits and vegetables are essential to removing pesticides and other chemicals. Baking soda has been found to be one of the most effective ways to throughly wash produce. Simply soak fruits and vegetables in water and a spoonful of baking soda for about 15 minutes. Then, rinse and dry.
Trash cans can get smelly! Help to absorb strong odors and keep kitchens smelling fresh by using baking soda in your trash can. Simply sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the trash can to eliminate unwanted odors.
Heartburn can be uncomfortable. Baking soda, a natural antacid, helps to neutralize stomach acid and heartburn. Treat heartburn by dissolving a teaspoon of baking soda into a glass of water and drink slowly.
7) Clean car battery terminals
Build up on your car ‘s battery can reduce its lifespan. Clean battery grime by mixing baking soda and water, creating a liquid paste. Disconnect the battery and carefully use a toothbrush to clean your battery’s terminals.
Baking soda’s anti-microbial properties are great for eliminating foot odor. Soak smelly feet in a baking soda and water bath to eliminate unwanted scents. Also, sprinkle baking soda in shoes to absorb excess moisture overnight.
9) Use to relieve bug bites
Relieve a bug bite by creating a baking soda and water paste. Apply the paste to the bite, and allow it to dry. Baking soda helps to draw out fluids, as well as alleviate irritating itching.
10) Clean patio furniture
Outdoor patio furniture can get a lot of wear and tear. Wipe outdoor sets down with baking soda and water to keep them clean during use. Also when storing furniture away during the winter months, place baking soda in the storage bag to keep them fresh.
Clean stained coffee cups by using baking soda. Simply sprinkle baking soda into the cup and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, grab a cloth and dip it into cold water, scrubbing the inside of the stained cup.
12) Neutralize refrigerator odors
Remove unpleasant odors in the refrigerator by using baking soda. Baking soda neutralizes fridge smells by interacting with odor particles and eliminating them. Create a small opening in the baking soda box and keep in the refrigerator.
13) Alleviate canker sores
Canker sores are small mouth ulcers. Baking soda is a natural remedy for canker sores, helping to neutralize acids in the mouth. Apply baking soda directly to the sore or rinse mouth with baking soda and water.
Razor burn can be quite irritating to the skin. Help alleviate razor burn by creating a mixture of water and baking soda, using a cotton ball to dab on skin. This will reduce the redness and irritation.
15) Clean stuffed animals
Stuffed animals are sweet, but can collect a lot of dust. Keep stuffed animals sanitary by cleaning them with baking soda. Simply place the toy into a plastic bag with baking soda and close. Then, shake bag thoroughly, helping the baking soda draw out dirt and dust. Lastly, vacuum remaining particles from the stuffed animal.
Keep unwanted weeds under control by sprinkling baking soda in the cracks of the driveway, walkways, and garden beds. Baking soda is biodegradable and nontoxic, making it an eco-friendly alternative to other chemical weed sprays. In just a few short days, the roots of weeds will shrivel away.
Overtime, shower curtains tend to get stained and unsightly. Keep shower curtains clean by scrubbing them with baking soda and a damp brush.
18) Extinguish a small cooking fire
For small cooking fires, sparked by oil or grease, quickly reach for the baking soda. Baking soda adds carbon dioxide to the flame, helping to put it out. In fact, baking soda is also found in actual fire extinguishers!
19) Remove stubborn carpet stains
A combination of baking soda and vinegar helps to get deep stains out of carpets and upholsteries. Together, the mixture creates a fizzling effect, and working hard to get the tough stains out. We all love a good cleaning hack!
Baking soda is great for your oral health. With its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties, baking soda is an alternative for conventional mouthwash. Mix half a teaspoon of mouthwash with warm water, and swish.
21) Treat a jellyfish sting
Jellyfish stings occur more often than we think. Help treat a jellyfish sting by using baking soda. First rinse the area with vinegar, then apply a hot water and baking soda mix.
Forget harsh chemicals, use baking soda as a fast, easy, and non-toxic way to strip paint. Using a combination of hot water and baking soda, apply to the paint’s surface and scrape. Or, for direct application on small hardware, place pieces directly into boiled water and baking soda.
Adding half a cup of baking soda to your laundry load is a great way to brighten colors and whites. Use baking soda in conjunction with your regular liquid laundry detergent. Plus, you’re clothes are sure to be odor-free.
Keep unwanted pests away from your home using baking soda. Control ants, roaches, and other critters by pouring baking soda near their homes.
Baking soda’s anti-inflammatory properties help to calm acne flare-ups and dry out blemishes. Mix baking soda, water, and lemon juice for an incredible at-home face mask. This mask is also a great way to reduce acne scars.
26) Help remove splinters
Baking soda also helps to remove splinters, swelling skin and helping to draw the splinter out. Make a water and baking soda paste, and apply it to the splinter. Cover with a bandaid, and by the next day, the splinter should be out and easily removed.
From the kid’s crayon masterpieces to daily hits and dings, our walls definitely take a beating. Use baking soda to remove wall scuffs and “artwork.” Use a damp sponge and clean away wall imperfections.
28) Remove musty book odors
Older books tend to have an aged smell. Remove musty book odors by using baking soda. Simply sprinkle baking soda in between pages to refresh.
Pour boiled water into an aluminum pan, and add a teaspoon or two of baking soda. Then add silverware to the pan, letting utensils sit. Use tongs to remove silverware and allow to cool, before drying.
Drains are easily clogged by everyday use. Unclog your drain by using baking soda and vinegar. The combination bubbles, so make sure to use a light hand and place a cover over the drain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then flush with hot water.
Forgot to use a coaster? No worries! With a combination of baking soda and water, you can easily remove water rings. Use a soft cloth and buff in a circular motion.
Sunburns can be painful. Help alleviate the sting of a sunburn by applying baking soda and cold water to the effected area. Apply aloe vera for extra relief.
Sponges are a breeding ground for bacteria, and sometimes they need to be cleaned in between replacements. Soak sponges in baking soda to disinfect then, and extend their use. Happy cleaning!
34) Clean leftover stains
Leftovers are great, but leftover stains are unsightly. Soak stained leftover containers in a mixture of baking soda and water for 30 minutes. Then, use a sponge or moist cloth to clean the discoloration.
We love our pets, and every once in a while, we need to ensure their beds are clean too. Sprinkle baking soda over your pet’s bed and let it soak in for 15 minutes. Then, vacuum the surface, keeping it fresh and clean.
Cookouts are great, but grill grime isn’t. After you’re done flipping patties, easily clean your barbecue grill with baking soda. Ensure the grill is cool, and use to brush to remove all grit.
Baking soda is powerful disinfectant, helping to kill unwanted bacteria. Brush retainers with baking soda and water to keep them sanitary. This technique works great with dentures as well.
38) Remove mildew from bathroom
Clean those hard to reach areas of the bathroom using baking soda. Create a paste made of water and baking soda to scrub the bathtub, tiles, and sink. Then, rinse with water. If you want to go the extra mile, lightly spray the area with white vinegar to further disinfect.
Some pots and pans require a little extra work to clean, especially when they get a bit burnt. This residue can be difficult to remove in a regular wash. Sprinkle baking soda generously in the burnt pan, then add hot water. Use a sponge to scrub away remaining residue.
Remove garage grease stains using baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda, with a heavy hand, let it sit on the stain for 15-20 minutes. Then, using a damp cloth or sponge, scrub the effected area. Feel free to repeat the process a couple times, if necessary.
Baking soda is undoubtedly a versatile product, covering nearly all household mishaps. Next time you’re in a crunch, remember to reach for the baking soda as an inexpensive and effective solution, it won’t let you down!
