Baking Soda Uses Beyond Food

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate or bicarbonate of soda, is a versatile household staple with numerous uses that extend far beyond cooking and baking. From cleaning to personal care to health remedies, this inexpensive white powder can be an effective, natural solution to many everyday problems. Let’s explore some of the many clever baking soda uses beyond the kitchen.

Cleaning with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a mild alkali that can help clean and deodorize many areas around your home without the need for harsh chemicals. It’s gentle enough for frequent use, yet abrasive enough to scrub away grime. Explore some of baking soda’s best cleaning uses below.

Cleaning the Bathroom

Baking soda makes an effective and eco-friendly cleaning solution for hard water stains and soap scum in the bathroom. For best results:

Make a paste by mixing 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water. Apply to surfaces with a sponge or cloth and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Sprinkle baking soda directly on wet surfaces in the shower or bathtub. Let sit for 5-10 minutes then scrub with a damp sponge or cloth.
For toilet bowls, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda into the bowl. Spray with vinegar and let fizz for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing clean with a toilet brush.

Deodorizing and Cleaning the Fridge

Baking soda absorbs strong food odors from the fridge, leaving it smelling fresh. It also cleans and deodorizes surfaces.

Place an open box of baking soda or a bowl of baking soda in the fridge and freezer to absorb odors. Replace every 2-3 months.
Make a baking soda paste and use to gently scrub the inside of the fridge, wiping down shelves and drawers. Rinse thoroughly.
For stubborn stains in plastic containers, fill with warm water and 2 tbsp baking soda. Let soak overnight before scrubbing clean.

Scrubbing Kitchen Surfaces

In the kitchen, baking soda tackles grease, grime, and odors on sinks, countertops, microwaves, oven surfaces, and more:

For stainless steel, sprinkle baking soda directly on a damp sponge or cloth. Wipe the surface, scrubbing lightly for stubborn spots. Rinse thoroughly.
Make a thick baking soda paste for cleaning dirty oven or microwave surfaces. Avoid abrasive scrubbing on delicate surfaces.
Mix with dish soap and hot water for an effective paste to scrub greasy range hoods and stove exhaust filters. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
Remove odors from cutting boards by sprinkling with baking soda. Let sit 10 minutes before rinsing. Also cleans and removes stains.

Cleaning Appliances

Beyond the oven, baking soda can help clean the inside and outside of other kitchen appliances:

For coffee and tea makers, brew a baking soda solution (add 1-2 tsp baking soda to water in machine) to remove odors and stains. Rinse thoroughly.
For dishwashers, sprinkle 1/4 cup baking soda on the bottom and run an empty cycle using hot water to freshen.
To clean the inside of the microwave, mix 3 tbsp baking soda with 1 cup water. Microwave on high 2-3 minutes until boiling. Let stand 5 minutes before wiping clean.

Cleaning Floors

Baking soda alone can scrub tile, vinyl, and sealed concrete floors. For carpet stains and odors, it’s used with vinegar:

For tile and vinyl, sprinkle baking soda and scrub with a damp mop. Rinse thoroughly. Also cleans grout.
For carpets, sprinkle baking soda over stains or odors. Let sit 10-15 minutes before vacuuming up. Repeat as needed.
To freshen carpets, sprinkle baking soda and let sit 10-15 minutes before vacuuming. Can also mix with dried lavender or rosemary.

Deodorizing Garbage Cans

Baking soda’s odor absorbing powers work well for deodorizing smelly garbage cans and bins. Simply sprinkle 1 cup on the bottom of the can between changes. You can also make a baking soda and water paste to scrub away stubborn stains.

Cleaning Walls and Baseboards

To clean greasy kitchen walls, baseboards, and painted surfaces around the home, make a baking soda paste. Lightly rub onto walls with a damp sponge or cloth using a gentle circular motion. Rinse thoroughly. Test first in an inconspicuous spot.

Cleaning Blinds and Shutters

Over time, dust and grime cling to window treatments. Make a solution of 2 cups warm water, 1/4 cup dish soap, 1/4 cup vinegar, and 2 tbsp baking soda. Using a soft brush or microfiber cloth, wipe down each slat, rinsing often.

Miscellaneous Cleaning Uses

Baking soda also tackles:

Crayon on walls – Make a paste and gently scrub.
Smelly books – Sprinkle baking soda between pages. Let sit overnight before brushing off.
Stained piano keys – Make a paste and gently wipe. Avoid getting between keys.
Pet accidents – Sprinkle on carpet or upholstery right away. Let sit 10-15 minutes before blotting and rinsing.
Trash/diaper pails – Sprinkle inside to control odors.
Litter boxes -Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom before adding litter to help control odors.

Safety Tips When Cleaning with Baking Soda

When cleaning with baking soda:

Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to check for colorfastness or damage.
Avoid using baking soda and vinegar together – it neutralizes the cleaning powers.
Don’t use on waxed or unfinished wood surfaces.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning – residue left behind can damage surfaces.
Avoid abrasive scrubbing on smooth or delicate surfaces.
Wear gloves and avoid getting in eyes. Rinse with water if direct contact occurs.

Baking Soda for Personal Care

Baking soda’s gentle abrasive and absorbent properties make it useful for many personal care needs. Discover some of the most popular uses of baking soda for hygiene and beauty below.

Baking Soda Toothpaste

Baking soda helps brush away stains from teeth, freshens breath, and balances pH in the mouth. To make homemade toothpaste:

Mix 1 tsp baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Brush teeth as normal for 2 minutes.
For extra polish, mix baking soda with a pinch of sea salt. Rinse thoroughly after brushing.
For whitening power, mix with hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice instead of water. Rinse well.

Baking Soda Mouthwash

Use baking soda mixed with water as an alkaline mouthwash to balance pH after an acidic meal.

In 1 cup warm water, mix 1 tsp baking soda. Swish in mouth for 1 minute before spitting. Rinse with plain water.

Exfoliating Properties

The gritty texture of baking soda makes an effective facial and body scrub to exfoliate skin:

Combine 1 tbsp baking soda with water to form a paste. Gently massage into damp skin, then rinse.
Mix with olive oil or honey for added moisture and easy rinsing. Use weekly for smoother, brighter skin.

Soothing Bathing Soak

Add baking soda to bath water to soothe sunburn, itchy skin, and skin infections. It creates an alkaline soak, reducing inflammatory acids:

For whole body soaks, add 1-2 cups baking soda to a warm bath and soak 10-20 minutes. Rinse skin thoroughly after.
For hand soaks, dissolve 4 tbsp baking soda in a basin of warm water. Soak hands 10-15 minutes.

Deodorant Uses

Baking soda’s antibacterial properties make it effective at combating body odor. Ways to use:

Pat underarms with dry baking soda to absorb wetness and odor. Rinse after drying.
Mix with coconut oil and essential oils to make homemade deodorant. Dab underarms. Store in a sealed container.

Soothing Insect Bites

To help ease pain, itching, and swelling of insect bites and bee stings, make a baking soda paste. Apply to the affected area for quick relief. Let dry before rinsing.

Athlete’s Foot Treatment

The antifungal abilities of baking soda may help treat athlete’s foot when used in foot soaks:

In a basin of warm water, mix 1/4 cup baking soda. Soak feet 10-15 minutes twice a day. Pat dry.
For added antifungal power, add a few drops tea tree essential oil to the soak.

Aftershave Splash

Soothe and calm just-shaven skin with a homemade baking soda aftershave. It helps balance pH and reduces irritation.

Whisk 2 tbsp baking soda into 1 cup cold water. Apply to skin using cotton pads. Let dry.

Deodorizing Shoes and Feet

Sprinkle baking soda directly in canvas shoes, sneakers, and boots to absorb sweat and odor overnight. Tap out the excess in the morning. Baking soda foot soaks can also help combat foot odor issues.

Health Uses for Baking Soda

Taken internally in small amounts, baking soda can help relieve occasional indigestion and heartburn. It’s also used in DIY detox baths. Always consult a doctor before ingesting baking soda or using for other health purposes.

Antacid for Indigestion

Baking soda can temporarily relieve uncomfortable gas pressure and bloating from indigestion when taken as an antacid:

In 1/2 cup of water, mix 1/2 tsp baking soda. Drink slowly. May repeat every 2 hours as needed.

Heartburn Relief

The alkaline properties of baking soda help neutralize stomach acid that causes acid reflux and heartburn:

In 1/2 cup of water, mix 1/2 tsp baking soda. Drink slowly for relief. Do not exceed 7 doses in 24 hours.

Detox Baths

Some claim baking soda baths help pull toxins from the body through the skin. Simple detox bath recipe:

Add 1-2 cups of baking soda to a warm standard size bathtub. Soak 30-60 minutes. Avoid getting water in eyes or mouth. Shower off after.

Soothe Canker Sores

To help relieve pain and speed healing, use a baking soda mouth rinse:

In 1/2 cup warm water, dissolve 1 tsp baking soda. Swish around the mouth for 1 minute before spitting. Repeat 2-3 times daily.

Bee Sting Remedies

A baking soda and water paste helps neutralize bee venom. Apply paste to the affected area and let dry before rinsing for relief.

Urinary Tract Health

Drinking baking soda and water may have antiseptic benefits for the urinary tract. It makes the urine less acidic:

Mix 1/2 tsp baking soda into 1/2 glass of water. Drink once or twice daily, not to exceed 7 doses in 24 hours.

Important Precautions

When ingesting baking soda:

Avoid exceeding the recommended dosages.
Do not use long-term except under medical supervision.
Stop use immediately if discomfort occurs.
Do not give to children under 5 years of age.
Consult a doctor before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or for ongoing health issues.

Baking Soda for Pets

Baking soda can be used to clean pet messes, freshen litter boxes and bedding, and even help soothe itchy skin on dogs and cats when used properly. Always consult a veterinarian before using on pets.

Cleaning Pet Messes

For vomit, urine, and feces on carpets and upholstery, baking soda helps remove stains and odors. Instructions:

Blot up excess liquid from the accident. Do not rub.
Sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the area. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
Vacuum up the baking soda. Repeat if needed. Avoid breathing in dust.

Cat Litter Deodorizer

Baking soda absorbs odors when sprinkled in the bottom of the litter box. It also reduces stickiness. Use 1/2 cup per box, changing weekly.

Freshening Pet Beds

To freshen smelly pet beds, lightly sprinkle with baking soda, let sit, and vacuum after 20 minutes. For removable covers, add 1/2 cup baking soda to the wash.

Itchy Dog Skin Relief

A weak baking soda bath can soothe minor skin irritations on dogs. Always test first on a small area. Instructions:

Fill a tub with a few inches of lukewarm water. Mix in 1-2 tbsp baking soda.
Place the dog in the tub and let soak for 5-10 minutes while gently massaging the coat and skin.
Thoroughly rinse the dog’s coat afterwards. Pat dry. Consult a vet if condition persists.

Safety Tips for Pets

When using baking soda on pets:

Always consult veterinarian before ingesting, bathing, or applying to skin.
Monitor pets closely and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Avoid getting near eyes, nose, or ears. Keep powder away from face.
Never exceed recommended dosages. More is not better.

DIY Cat Repellent Spray

To discourage cats from scratching furniture, spray surfaces with baking soda, water, and lemon juice:

In a spray bottle, mix 2 cups water, 20 drops lemon juice, and 4 tsp baking soda. Shake before each use.
Lightly spray onto surfaces. Reapply whenever cat scratches. Rinse residue before allowing pets to lick.

Gardening Uses for Baking Soda

From fertilizing plants to deterring pests, baking soda can be used in place of toxic chemicals in the garden. Always dilute baking soda when applying to plants. Here are some of the most common gardening uses.

Adjusting Soil pH

Baking soda raises the pH of acidic soils closer to the ideal slightly acidic 6-7 range for most plants:

To raise pH, mix 1 tbsp baking soda into 1 gallon of water. Pour over soil around plants. Test and reapply weekly as needed.

Fertilizing Gardens

When diluted with water, baking soda provides a nutritional boost, adding sodium, carbonate, and alkalinity to fertilize plants:

Mix 1 tsp baking soda with 1 quart of water. Use weekly to water soil around plants, avoiding direct contact with foliage.

Improving Flower Blooms

Baking soda reportedly enhances blooms and prolongs flowering when used to water plants. It may affect color and size.

Try adding 1/4 tsp baking soda to 1 quart of water. Use this solution weekly on flowering plants. Monitor for changes.

Preventing Fungal Growth

The antifungal abilities of baking soda may help prevent and treat fungus issues like powdery mildew:

As a preventative, spray plants weekly with 1 tsp baking soda mixed with 1 quart water.
For treatment, use 1 tbsp baking soda per quart of water. Thoroughly coat affected areas.

Controlling Pests

Baking soda sprayed on plants can help deter certain insects. It causes insects distress upon contact.

Mix 1 tbsp baking soda with 1 quart water. Spray leaves, stems, and soil around plants. Reapply after rain.

Deodorizing Indoor Plants

Occasionally water houseplants with diluted baking soda water to prevent odors and freshen potting mix:

Mix 1/4 tsp baking soda with 1 quart water. Use this solution every 2-4 weeks when watering indoor plants.

Safety Tips for Plants

When using baking soda in gardening and landscaping:

Always test on a small area first to check for damage before widespread use.
Start with weaker solutions and gradually increase strength as needed.
Avoid applying baking soda spray during the heat of day or to stressed plants.
Rinse edible plants thoroughly before consuming any portions.
Wear gloves and wash skin after use. Avoid inhaling dust.

Miscellaneous Uses for Baking Soda

Baking soda still has even more uses that don’t fit neatly into any category. Discover some of the most unusual uses below.

Deodorizing Shoes

Sprinkle baking soda inside smelly shoes overnight. The powder absorbs moisture and odors. Shake out the excess in the morning for fresh smelling footwear.

Removing Odors from Hands

Baking soda is a handy way to remove stubborn odors like garlic, fish, and onions from hands. Just rub fingers briskly together under running water with a teaspoon of baking soda. Rinse thoroughly. The abrasive grains help lift odors as baking soda neutralizes and absorbs them.

Scrubbing Produce

Make a baking soda paste with water to gently scrub away dirt, wax, and pesticides from firm fruits and vegetables. Thoroughly rinse produce afterwards. Test first on a small area.

Polishing Silver

Use a baking soda paste made with water to clean and shine tarnished silverware and jewelry. Gently rub onto surfaces using a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry.

Drain Cleaner

For a DIY drain cleaner, pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the kitchen sink drain followed by 1/2 cup vinegar. Let fizz for 15 minutes before rinsing with hot water. Repeat weekly.

Extinguishing Small Fires

Keep baking soda on hand in the kitchen to toss on small grease and electrical fires to help extinguish flames. It smothers and separates the fuel from the oxygen.