5 Genius Ways I Use Baking Soda Around the House

Natural Kitchen and Bathroom Scrubbing Power

Three simple ingredients are all you need to harness baking soda’s natural scrubbing power: baking soda, water, and a touch of liquid dish soap.

Mix a thick paste and apply it directly to stubborn stains, grout lines, or grimy surfaces. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a sponge or brush. The abrasive yet gentle nature of baking soda helps lift dirt without scratching surfaces.

One of the most versatile baking soda uses is tackling tough kitchen messes like baked-on food residue and greasy stovetops.

In bathrooms, it effectively cleans tile, tubs, and sinks while deodorizing drains and toilet bowls naturally.

Freshen Your Carpets and Upholstery

A simple sprinkle of baking soda can work wonders to refresh your carpets and upholstery without harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners.

Just dust a light, even layer over the surface and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. For deeply embedded odors, leave it overnight.

Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda along with absorbed odors and dirt.

For stubborn spots, create a paste with water and scrub gently. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda before sprinkling for a pleasant scent. This method works great on mattresses, couches, and car seats too, making use of baking soda’s natural deodorizer properties for effective odor absorption.

DIY Personal Care and Beauty Solutions

Baking soda’s gentle abrasive properties make it perfect for natural personal care and beauty routines.

Mix it with water to create a gentle facial scrub that removes dead skin cells and brightens your complexion. You can also use it as a natural dry shampoo – just sprinkle it on your roots to absorb excess oil between washes.

For oral care, dip your damp toothbrush in baking soda to naturally whiten teeth and freshen breath.

Create an effective deodorant by mixing baking soda with coconut oil, or use it alone in a light dusting under your arms.

It’s also great for softening rough elbows and feet when mixed into your regular body wash. Additionally, baking soda’s antibacterial properties can help in fighting acne when used in facial masks.

Unclog Drains and Clean Garbage Disposals

When your drains become sluggish or start to emit unpleasant odors, you’ll find that baking soda offers a powerful yet eco-friendly solution.

Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let it fizz for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.

For garbage disposals, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda inside, add some ice cubes, and run cold water while operating the disposal. The combination will deodorize, clean the blades, and help break down greasy buildup without harsh chemicals.

Eliminate Refrigerator and Food Container Odors

Strong food odors lingering in your refrigerator or plastic containers don’t stand a chance against baking soda’s natural deodorizing properties.

Place an open box of baking soda on your fridge shelf and replace it every three months to absorb unwanted smells.

For plastic containers that retain food odors, create a paste using baking soda and water, then scrub the surface thoroughly.

Let it sit for 30 minutes before washing. You can also sprinkle baking soda directly into smelly containers, seal them overnight, and rinse clean the next day.

These methods will keep your food storage fresh-smelling.