Whether you’re trying to save money on the cleaning products you buy, or want to do your part for the environment by reducing the chemicals you use, baking soda is an excellent choice as an Eco-friendly cleaner. Otherwise, known as sodium bicarbonate, this is a completely natural ingredient that can be bought in large quantities for a low price. Here are 10 uses for baking soda to get you started (you’ll probably discover many more as time goes on):
1. Get Rid Of Odors: One of the most popular uses for baking soda is for getting rid of odors. Keep a box of baking soda in the refrigerator or cupboard to absorb smells, or sprinkle a little in the bottom of a bin.
2. Clearing Drains: To clear and prevent drain blockages, put a quarter of a cup of baking soda in the drain then run the hot water to flush it through the system. You can also try baking soda and then vinegar for more stubborn blockages.
3. General Cleaning: Baking soda can be used to clean a number of surfaces. Just sprinkle a little on a damp sponge and clean away!
4. Cleaning Pans: If you’re finding it difficult to clean burnt-on food off your pots and pans then soak them in baking soda for a little while before cleaning.
5. Add To Your Laundry: Add half a cup of baking soda to your laundry, along with standard detergent, to give it an extra cleaning boost.
6. Get Rid Of Limescale: Make a paste using baking soda and vinegar and apply this to surfaces like shower heads or sink plugs to get rid of limescale.
7. Carpet Cleaning: To freshen up your carpets, sprinkle with baking soda and leave to sit overnight. Simply vacuum the baking soda residue the next day and your carpet will smell fresh and new.
8. Absorb Moisture In Cupboards: If you have a musty cupboard, leave a box or bowl of baking soda inside to absorb moisture and keep things fresher.
9. Help Melt Ice and Snow: If you want ice around your property to melt more quickly, sprinkle it with baking soda when you’d normally use salt. It helps lower the freezing point of water.
10. Use As Deodorant: Uses for baking soda aren’t just limited to cleaning; use it to keep yourself clean. Use a little baking soda under the arms as a natural deodorant.
There should be little doubt that there are numerous uses for baking soda around the home. It’s well worth buying a box to have on hand for general cleaning purposes and many other household chores. Not only will it help your budget, but it’s more healthy to use than traditional chemical cleaners and one of the great Eco-friendly cleaning products.