Cleaning our homes is a necessary chore, but it doesn't have to involve harsh chemicals and expensive cleaning products.
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a natural and versatile cleaner that can be found in almost every kitchen pantry.
In this blog post, we will explore 110 cleaning tips using baking soda, providing you with an extensive guide to harness the power of this affordable and eco-friendly cleaning agent.
What is Baking Soda?
Baking soda, chemically known as sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), is a white crystalline powder with various uses in cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
It is a mild alkaline compound that reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, making it an effective leavening agent in baking. Aside from its culinary applications, baking soda also possesses excellent cleaning properties.
It acts as a gentle abrasive, deodorizer, and stain remover due to its ability to break down grease, dirt, and odors.
Best of all, it is non-toxic and safe to use around children and pets.
Baking soda cleaning tips
1. Cleaning Tips for Kitchen Surfaces
1. Clean Greasy Stovetops
Sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth or sponge and scrub away tough grease stains on stovetops.
Rinse with water and wipe clean.
2. Deodorize Refrigerator
Place an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator to absorb unwanted odors.
Replace the box every 1-2 months for continuous freshness.
3. Remove Coffee and Tea Stains
To remove stubborn coffee or tea stains from mugs and teapots, create a paste with baking soda and water.
Scrub the stains gently with the paste and rinse thoroughly.
4. Clean Oven Racks
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to the oven racks.
Let it sit overnight, then scrub off the grime with a scrub brush the next day.
Rinse well before using.
5. Shine Stainless Steel Sink
Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp sponge and use it to clean and shine stainless steel sinks.
Rinse thoroughly for a sparkling finish.
Bathroom Cleaning Hacks
6. Freshen Up Drains
Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar.
Let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water to freshen up the drain.
7. Remove Soap Scum
Create a paste with equal parts baking soda and water.
Apply the paste to soap scum on shower doors or tiles, then scrub gently with a sponge or brush.
Rinse thoroughly.
8. Whiten Grout Lines
Mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide to create a paste.
Apply the paste to grout lines, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with a brush.
Rinse well for whiter grout.
9. Clean Toilet Bowl
Sprinkle baking soda into the toilet bowl, then scrub with a toilet brush.
Flush to rinse away the baking soda and leave your toilet bowl fresh and clean.
10. Unclog Drains
Pour 1 cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of vinegar down the clogged drain.
Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then flush with hot water to clear the clog.
Laundry Tips
11. Boost Laundry Detergent
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your regular laundry detergent to boost its cleaning power and help remove tough stains and odors.
12. Remove Odors from Clothes
Sprinkle baking soda directly onto smelly clothes before washing them to neutralize odors effectively.
13. Brighten Whites
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your white laundry load to help brighten dingy whites and remove yellowing.
14. Fabric Softener Replacement
Instead of using commercial fabric softeners, add 1/2 cup of baking soda during the rinse cycle to soften fabrics naturally.
15. Remove Oil Stains
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to oil stains on clothes before washing as usual.
This helps lift grease stains effectively.
General Household Cleaning
16. Remove Carpet Stains
Sprinkle baking soda onto carpet stains and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming away.
For tougher stains, create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, let it dry, then vacuum.
17. Deodorize Carpets
Sprinkle baking soda liberally over carpets, let it sit overnight, then vacuum in the morning to remove odors and freshen up your carpets.
18. Clean Pet Bedding
Wash pet bedding with baking soda added to the laundry detergent to eliminate pet odors effectively.
19. Polish Silverware
Make a paste with baking soda and water and use it to gently polish silverware, removing tarnish and restoring shine.
20. Remove Crayon Marks
Dip a damp cloth into baking soda and gently rub over crayon marks on walls or furniture.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth afterward.
Outdoor Cleaning Tips
21. Clean Outdoor Furniture
Create a mixture of baking soda and water, then use it to clean outdoor furniture surfaces.
Rinse well afterward.
22. Remove Mildew from Patio Tiles
Make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to mildew stains on patio tiles or concrete surfaces, scrub gently, then rinse thoroughly.
23. Clean BBQ Grills
Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp brush and scrub away grease and grime on BBQ grills.
Rinse well before using.
24. Revive Faded Plastic Furniture
Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to faded plastic furniture.
Scrub gently, then rinse well for restored vibrancy.
25. Clean Garden Tools
Soak garden tools in a bucket of warm water mixed with baking soda for an hour or two.
Scrub off any dirt or rust before rinsing clean.
Personal Care Uses
26. Exfoliate Skin
Mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a gentle exfoliating paste for smooth skin.
Apply it in circular motions, then rinse thoroughly.
27. Freshen Breath
Gargle with a mixture of water and baking soda to freshen breath naturally.
Spit out the mixture after gargling but avoid swallowing it.
28. Soothe Insect Bites
Create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to insect bites or stings for soothing relief from itching and inflammation.
29. DIY Deodorant
Mix equal parts baking soda and cornstarch as a natural alternative to commercial deodorants.
Apply it directly to clean underarms for odor control.
30. Detoxifying Bath
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bathwater for a detoxifying soak that helps balance pH levels and soothes skin irritations.
Baking Soda for Carpet Cleaning
31. Remove Pet Odors
Sprinkle baking soda liberally over carpets and rugs, especially in areas where pets frequent.
Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then vacuum to remove pet odors effectively.
32. Freshen Up Carpeted Stairs
Sprinkle baking soda on carpeted stairs, paying extra attention to high-traffic areas.
Allow it to sit for a while, then vacuum to refresh and deodorize your stairs.
33. Remove Carpet Stains
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to carpet stains.
Gently scrub the affected area with a soft brush or cloth, then blot with a clean towel.
Rinse with water and let it air dry.
34. Eliminate Musty Odors
If your carpets have a musty smell, sprinkle baking soda evenly over the surface and let it sit for a few hours.
Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda along with the unpleasant odors.
35. DIY Carpet Freshener
Mix baking soda with a few drops of your favorite essential oil in a jar.
Sprinkle the mixture on your carpets, let it sit for a while, then vacuum to enjoy fresh and fragrant carpets.
Baking Soda for Outdoor Cleaning
36. Clean Outdoor Toys
Make a solution with warm water and baking soda, then use it to clean outdoor toys, such as plastic slides, swing sets, or sandboxes.
Rinse well with water afterward.
37. Remove Oil Stains from Garage Floors
Sprinkle baking soda directly onto oil stains on your garage floor.
Scrub with a brush and hot soapy water to lift the stains effectively.
38. Clean Garden Furniture Cushions
Sprinkle baking soda over garden furniture cushions to absorb odors and freshen them up.
Leave it for a few hours, then brush off the baking soda and enjoy clean and refreshed cushions.
39. Remove Mildew from Outdoor Cushions
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to mildew stains on outdoor cushions.
Scrub gently with a brush, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry.
40. Clean Bird Baths
Remove dirt and debris from bird baths by sprinkling baking soda onto a damp cloth or sponge.
Scrub the surface, rinse well, and refill with fresh water for your feathered friends.
Baking Soda for Pet Care
41. Neutralize Pet Odors
Sprinkle baking soda on pet bedding, rugs, or carpets to absorb odors caused by pets.
Let it sit for a while before vacuuming thoroughly.
42. Deodorize Pet Collars and Leashes
Create a mixture of warm water and baking soda in a bowl.
Soak your pet's collars and leashes in the solution for a few hours or overnight to remove unpleasant smells.
Rinse well before use.
43. Freshen Up Litter Boxes
Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of the litter box before adding litter.
It helps control odors and absorbs moisture for a fresher litter box experience.
44. Remove Pet Hair from Upholstery
Sprinkle baking soda on upholstered furniture or car seats covered in pet hair.
Rub it in gently with a brush or cloth, then vacuum to lift the pet hair effectively.
45. Clean Pet Toys
Soak pet toys in warm water mixed with baking soda for an hour or two.
Scrub off any dirt or grime, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry before giving them back to your pets.
Baking Soda for Personal Care
46. Homemade Facial Scrub
Mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a gentle facial scrub.
Massage it onto your face in circular motions to exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion.
Rinse thoroughly and moisturize afterward.
47. Natural Teeth Whitener
Dip a damp toothbrush into baking soda and brush your teeth gently for a natural teeth whitening treatment.
Be cautious not to use it excessively, as baking soda is abrasive and may damage tooth enamel with frequent use.
48. Foot Soak
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to warm water in a basin or foot bath.
Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes to help soften calluses, eliminate foot odor, and soothe tired feet.
49. Dry Shampoo
Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto your roots and massage it into your scalp to absorb excess oil and refresh your hair between washes.
Brush out any excess powder.
50. Nail Brightener
Make a paste with baking soda and water, then gently scrub it onto your nails and cuticles to remove stains and brighten the nails.
Rinse well and moisturize afterward.
Baking Soda for Pest Control
51. Ant Repellent
Create a barrier by sprinkling baking soda around entry points to deter ants from entering your home.
Refresh the barrier regularly for ongoing protection.
52. Cockroach Control
Make a mixture of equal parts baking soda and powdered sugar.
Sprinkle it in areas where cockroaches are commonly found.
The sugar attracts them, while the baking soda acts as a natural pesticide when ingested.
53. Garden Pest Spray
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and 1 gallon of water in a spray bottle.
Spray it directly on plants to help control fungal diseases and keep pests at bay.
54. Flea Treatment for Pets
After bathing your pet, sprinkle baking soda on their fur and rub it in gently to help repel fleas.
Brush or comb through their fur to distribute the baking soda evenly.
55. Remove Skunk Odor
If your pet has an unfortunate encounter with a skunk, mix 1 quart of hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and a teaspoon of liquid dish soap.
Apply the mixture to your pet's fur, avoiding their eyes and mouth. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Baking Soda for Odor Control
56. Freshen Up Shoes
Sprinkle baking soda inside shoes to absorb odors.
Let it sit overnight, then shake out any excess powder before wearing them.
57. Deodorize Trash Bins
Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of your trash bins to help absorb unpleasant odors.
Replace it regularly for continuous odor control.
58. Remove Fridge Odors
Place an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator to absorb lingering food odors.
Replace the box every 1-2 months for optimal effectiveness.
59. Neutralize Pet Odors on Furniture
Sprinkle baking soda on pet beds, couches, or other upholstered furniture to neutralize pet odors.
Let it sit for a while, then vacuum thoroughly.
60. Freshen Up Smelly Carpets
Sprinkle baking soda liberally over carpets and rugs that have absorbed unpleasant odors.
Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then vacuum to remove the baking soda along with the odors.
Baking Soda for Kitchen Appliance Cleaning
61. Clean Dishwasher
Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of your dishwasher and run an empty cycle to remove any built-up residue and odors.
62. Refresh Cutting Boards
Sprinkle baking soda on cutting boards, scrub with a damp sponge, and rinse thoroughly to remove stains and odors.
63. Clean Coffee Maker
Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1 quart of warm water and run the mixture through your coffee maker.
Rinse thoroughly with water afterward.
64. Deodorize Garbage Disposals
Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the garbage disposal, followed by 1 cup of vinegar.
Allow it to fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water to freshen up the disposal.
65. Polish Stainless Steel Appliances
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then use it to gently scrub stainless steel appliances.
Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry for a streak-free shine.
Baking Soda for Automotive Cleaning
66. Clean Car Battery Terminals
Mix baking soda with water to create a paste, then apply it to car battery terminals.
Scrub gently with a brush to remove corrosion and buildup. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
67. Remove Bugs from Windshields
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to stubborn bug splatters on windshields.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
68. Clean Car Upholstery
Sprinkle baking soda on car upholstery, let it sit for a while to absorb odors, then vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda along with any dirt or debris.
69. Deodorize Car Interiors
Place an open container of baking soda in your car to absorb unwanted odors.
Replace it regularly for continuous odor control.
70. Remove Stains from Floor Mats
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to stained floor mats in your car.
Scrub gently with a brush, rinse with water, and let them air dry.
Baking Soda for Gardening
71. Control Powdery Mildew
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of liquid soap, and 1 gallon of water.
Spray the solution on plants affected by powdery mildew to help control the fungal disease.
72. Soil pH Adjustment
Test the pH level of your garden soil.
If it's too acidic, sprinkle baking soda lightly around acid-loving plants to help raise the pH level and promote healthier growth.
73. Deter Cabbage Worms
Create a mixture of equal parts flour and baking soda. Dust the mixture onto cabbage plants to naturally deter cabbage worms and other pests.
74. Compost Odor Control
Sprinkle a layer of baking soda into your compost bin to help control odors and maintain a more pleasant composting environment.
75. Clean Garden Tools
Soak garden tools in a solution of warm water and baking soda to remove dirt, grime, and sap.
Scrub with a brush, rinse, and dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
Baking Soda for First Aid
76. Relieve Sunburn
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to a lukewarm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes to soothe sunburned skin and help reduce discomfort.
77. Alleviate Itchy Skin
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to itchy skin caused by insect bites, poison ivy, or minor rashes for relief.
78. Soothe Razor Burn
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water to create a soothing solution for razor burn.
Apply it to the affected area using a cotton pad.
79. Treat Heartburn
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with 4 ounces of water and drink it to help alleviate heartburn and indigestion.
Consult a healthcare professional before using this remedy.
80. Remove Splinters
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to the affected area.
Cover it with a bandage and let it sit for a day to help draw out the splinter.
Baking Soda for Home Remedies
81. Soothing Bath Soak
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bathwater to soothe irritated skin, relieve muscle aches, and promote overall relaxation.
82. Homemade Mouthwash
Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 4 ounces of water as a natural mouthwash to help freshen breath and maintain oral hygiene.
83. Stomach Upset Relief
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water and drink it slowly to help alleviate stomach upset and acid indigestion.
84. DIY Antacid
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with a half glass of water and drink it to neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn.
85. Natural Deodorizing Sachets
Create sachets with baking soda and your favorite dried herbs or flowers to place in closets, drawers, or shoes for natural deodorizing effects.
Baking Soda for Beauty and Personal Care
86. Scalp Exfoliation
Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with your regular shampoo to exfoliate and remove buildup from the scalp.
Gently massage the mixture into your scalp before rinsing thoroughly.
87. Clarifying Hair Rinse
Add a teaspoon of baking soda to a cup of water and use it as a final rinse after shampooing to remove product residue and restore hair's natural shine.
88. Hand Softener
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then gently massage it into your hands to exfoliate and soften rough skin.
Rinse and moisturize for silky smooth hands.
89. Nail Care Soak
Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with warm water in a bowl and soak your nails to help whiten and strengthen them.
It also helps to soften cuticles.
90. Foot Odor Remedy
Dissolve baking soda in warm water and soak your feet to neutralize foot odor and refresh tired, achy feet.
Baking Soda for Health and Wellness
91. Exercise Recovery Bath
Add a cup of baking soda to a warm bath to soothe muscles, reduce post-exercise soreness, and promote relaxation.
92. Detoxifying Foot Soak
Create a foot soak by mixing baking soda, Epsom salt, and a few drops of essential oil in warm water.
Soak your feet to help draw out toxins and impurities.
93. Alkalizing Drink
Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water and drink it to help balance the body's pH levels and promote overall health.
Consult with a healthcare professional before using this remedy.
94. Soothing Skin Irritations
Add baking soda to bathwater or create a soothing paste with water to relieve itching from minor skin irritations or allergic reactions.
95. DIY Deodorant Powder
Mix baking soda with arrowroot powder and a few drops of essential oil to create a natural, homemade deodorant powder for underarms and feet.
Baking Soda for Cooking and Baking
96. Tenderize Meat
Create a marinade with baking soda to help tenderize tough cuts of meat before cooking.
Be sure to rinse the meat thoroughly before cooking to remove any residual baking soda.
97. Fluffy Omelets
Add a pinch of baking soda to beaten eggs when making omelets to help make them fluffier and lighter.
98. Reduce Acidity in Tomato-Based Dishes
A tiny amount of baking soda can be added to tomato-based recipes to reduce the acidity and balance the flavors.
Use sparingly, as too much can affect the taste.
99. Revive Stale Beans
When cooking dried beans, add a small amount of baking soda to the soaking water to help soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
100. Neutralize Onion Odor
After handling onions, rub your hands with a paste of baking soda and water to help neutralize and eliminate lingering onion odor.
Baking Soda for Home Maintenance
101. Clean Battery Terminals
Mix baking soda with water to create a paste, then apply it to car battery terminals to remove corrosion and ensure a strong connection.
102. Remove Scuff Marks
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then use it to gently scrub away scuff marks on walls, baseboards, or floors.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
103. Freshen Upholstered Furniture
Sprinkle baking soda over upholstered furniture, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum to remove odors and refresh the fabric.
104. Deodorize Sports Equipment
Sprinkle baking soda inside gym bags, helmets, or sports shoes to neutralize odors and keep your gear fresh.
105. Polish Silver Jewelry
Create a paste with baking soda and water, then use it to gently polish silver jewelry.
Rinse and buff to restore its shine.
Baking Soda for DIY Cleaning Products
106. All-Purpose Cleaner
Create a natural all-purpose cleaner by mixing baking soda with water and a few drops of essential oil.
Use this solution to clean countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.
107. Tile and Grout Cleaner
Make a paste with baking soda and vinegar, then use it to scrub tile surfaces and grout to remove dirt, mold, and mildew stains.
108. Window and Mirror Cleaner
Mix baking soda with water to create a streak-free cleaner for windows and mirrors.
Wipe with a microfiber cloth for a sparkling finish.
109. Carpet Deodorizer
Combine baking soda with a few drops of essential oil in a shaker jar.
Sprinkle the mixture over carpets, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum to eliminate odors.
110. Dishwasher Freshener
Place a small bowl of baking soda in the dishwasher between cycles to help absorb odors and maintain a fresh-smelling appliance.
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Conclusion
Baking soda is undoubtedly one of the most versatile cleaning agents found in our homes.
From tackling kitchen messes to freshening up our bathrooms, doing laundry, and even personal care uses, its cleaning properties are endless. By incorporating these thirty tips into your cleaning routine, you can achieve a sparkling clean home without relying on harsh chemicals or breaking the bank.
Harness the power of baking soda today and enjoy a cleaner, healthier living space!