Introduction
Baking soda is truly a magical ingredient when it comes to cleaning. With just a box of baking soda from your pantry, you can take your cleaning game to a whole new level. Baking soda is versatile, natural, non-toxic and cheap – making it the perfect product for green cleaning around the house.
In this comprehensive guide, I will share everything you need to know to unlock the cleaning powers of baking soda. From tips and tricks to specific ways you can use baking soda for cleaning different areas and surfaces, you’ll learn how this humble powder can make cleaning easier and more effective. Let’s dive in and explore the wonders of baking soda!
Why Baking Soda is a Powerful Cleaner
There are several key properties that make baking soda such an effective cleaning agent:
Abrasiveness
Baking soda is mildly abrasive, meaning it can help scrub away stains and buildup. Its fine texture gently lifts dirt and grease without being too harsh on surfaces.
Alkalinity
With a pH around 8-9, baking soda is alkaline. This allows it to neutralize acids and dissolve grease and residue.
Odor Neutralization
Thanks to its alkaline nature, baking soda absorbs odors rather than covering them up. Sprinkle it on smelly carpets, fabrics, trash cans or anywhere else to freshen.
Non-Toxic
Baking soda is completely safe and non-toxic. This makes it ideal for an eco-friendly cleaning routine.
With this winning combination of abilities, baking soda is a must-have for cleaning many areas of your home effectively yet gently.
Cleaning Uses for Baking Soda
Now that we’ve covered why baking soda is so great, let’s look at specific ways to use it for cleaning around your house:
Kitchen Cleaning
The kitchen is an ideal place to take advantage of baking soda. Here are some of my favorite uses:
Sink and Countertop Cleaner
Make a paste of baking soda and water and use it to scrub the sink basin, countertops, appliances and backsplashes. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
Fridge and Freezer Odor Eliminator
Place an open box of baking soda inside the fridge and freezer to absorb odors. Replace every 30 days.
Microwave Cleaner
Mix 3 tablespoons baking soda with 1 cup water. Microwave the mixture for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to bubble away grime. Wipe clean.
Oven Cleaner
Sprinkle baking soda liberally on oven bottom. Spray with water and let sit overnight. The next day, simply wipe away grease and burnt food residue.
Dishwasher Cleaner
Run an empty cycle with 2 cups baking soda in the main compartment to freshen the interior and break down grease buildup.
Bathroom Cleaning
Baking soda comes in handy in the bathroom as well. Here’s how I put it to use:
Toilet Cleaner
Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into the toilet bowl. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before scrubbing and flushing. The baking soda dissolves residue, limescale and rings.
Drain Cleaner
Clear a clogged drain by pouring 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain followed by 1 cup vinegar. Let fizz for 10-15 minutes then rinse with hot water.
Tile Scrub
Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Apply to tile surfaces and use a sponge or brush to scrub mildew, soap scum and hard water stains away.
Shower Curtain Cleaner
Add 1/4 cup baking soda to the washing machine along with shower curtain. The baking soda will help remove mildew and odors.
Throughout the House
Baking soda can be used on all kinds of surfaces beyond the kitchen and bathroom:
Carpet Deodorizer and Cleaner
Sprinkle baking soda liberally on carpet. Let sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming up. The baking soda will absorb odors and lift dirt.
Hardwood Floor Cleaner
Add 1/2 cup baking soda to a bucket of warm water. Use a sponge mop dipped in the solution to clean hardwood floors without streaking.
Furniture Polish
Whip up a paste of 2 parts baking soda to 1 part lemon juice. Gently rub onto wooden furniture with a soft cloth to clean, polish and neutralize odor.
Mattress Odor Remover
Sprinkle baking soda over the entire mattress, let sit for an hour, and then vacuum up to pulls odors out of the upholstery.
Tips for Using Baking Soda for Cleaning
Now that you know the myriad uses for baking soda around your home, keep these tips in mind:
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Always do a spot test first on a discrete area to check for colorfastness.
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Make a paste with water for more scrubbing power. Start with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.
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Use warm or hot water to dissolve baking soda and activate its cleaning properties.
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Allow baking soda time to work when tackling tough stains or buildup before scrubbing.
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Rinse surfaces thoroughly after using baking soda.
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Store an open box in the fridge/freezer to keep the baking soda fresh.
Unleash the Power!
With these tips and recommended applications, you’re ready to unlock the cleaning power of baking soda! Harness its natural abilities and say goodbye to harsh chemical cleaners. Baking soda is inexpensive, non-toxic and remarkably versatile for cleaning your entire home. Get ready to be amazed at how this pantry staple can take your cleaning routine to the next level!
