Sodium bicarbonate, or what we commonly know and call as baking soda, is commonly used in baking. You can find baking soda in any supermarket and perhaps even at the local 711 but did you know that this soft powder has many other uses aside from taking part in baking?
Keep reading to see the many unusual uses of baking soda for cleaning, washing, deodorizing, and many more. And who knows, maybe you’ll discover a new hack on your own!
Remove water rings
People either forget to use coasters or are too lazy to use them. Problem is those glasses will often leave water rings on that beautiful table. Use a combination of baking soda and water to easily remove water rings. Grab a soft cloth and buff the area in a circular motion, and there you go!
Kill unwanted weeds
Weeds have a nasty habit of coming up and ruining your driveway. Sprinkle baking soda into the cracks of your driveway, walkways, and garden beds. The stuff is biodegradable and non-toxic, so it is eco-friendly alternative as compared to other chemical sprays.
Remove stubborn carpet stains
Stains on that lovely carpet is unsightly and annoying, but a combination of baking soda and vinegar can get rid if deep stains since the mixture creates a fizzling effect that gets the tough stains out. Easy, right?
Treat a jellyfish sting
Jellyfish stings happen more often than beach goers think. But you can treat a jellyfish sting with baking soda by rinsing the area with vinegar first, then applying a mix of hot water and baking soda.
Deodorize trash cans
Trash cans release strong, unpleasant odors so keep the kitchen smelling fresh by sprinkling baking soda on the bottom of the trash can to eliminate those unwanted odors.
Remove adhesives
Baking soda mixed with oil can help remove adhesives like glue on the floor, stickers, and the like. You will need a strong arm and a lot of patience for this.
Treat Heartburn
Heartburn is not just uncomfortable, but also scary. Baking soda is a natural antacid, so it helps neutralize stomach acid and heartburn. Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda into a glass of water and drink slowly. If heartburns persist, go see a doctor.
Clean car battery terminals
A car’s battery needs cleaning and maintenance as well, and corrosion on the terminals can reduce its lifespan. Mix baking soda and water to create a liquid paste. Disconnect the battery then use a toothbrush to carefully clean your battery’s terminals.
Eliminates foot odor
Baking soda’s anti-microbial properties can help get rid of foot odor. If you have smelly feet, soak them in a baking soda and water bath to eliminate those odors. You can also sprinkle baking soda in shoes overnight to absorb excess moisture.
Use to relieve bug bites
Those annoying bugs can leave a nasty bite, so mix up a baking soda and water paste then apply the paste to the bite, and let it dry. Baking soda helps draw out fluids, all while alleviating itching.
Clean patio furniture
Outdoor patio furniture suffers from a lot of wear and tear being exposed to the elements. Wipe those sets down with baking soda and water to keep them clean. If you’re storing furniture during the winter months, place baking soda in the storage bag to keep those tables and chairs fresh.
Tomato plant sweetener
If you plant tomatoes and they start to appear 1 inch in diameter, sprinkle baking soda on the soil around each plant, but not on the plant itself. Repeat this process when the tomatoes are halfway grown.
Remove coffee stains
You can clean stained coffee cups with baking soda by sprinkling the stuff into the cup and letting it sit for a few minutes. Grab a cloth, dip it into cold water, then scrub the inside of the stained cup and see how sparkly it is after.
Save a burnt pan
Heavily used pots and pans require patience and work to clean, especially when they get burnt. The stubborn residue can be difficult to remove, so sprinkle baking soda generously in the pan and add hot water. Use a sponge and some muscle to scrub away the remaining residue.
Alleviate canker sores
Canker sores are small mouth ulcers that are painful and discomforting. Baking soda helps neutralize acids in the mouth so apply directly to the sore or rinse your mouth with baking soda and water.
Razor burn relief
Razor burn is an irritating sensation on the skin after shaving. You can alleviate razor burn with a mixture of water and baking soda. Use a cotton ball to dab on skin to reduce the redness and irritation experienced.
Clean stuffed animals
Stuffed animals are cute and all, but they do get dirty. Put them in a plastic bag with baking soda and close the bag, then shake thoroughly to allow the baking soda to draw out dirt and dust. Vacuum the remaining particles from the stuffed animal for good measure.
Whiten Teeth
Baking soda is a really inexpensive way to whiten teeth. It helps remove plaque build-up and surface stains when you brush your teeth with it. Your teeth will be clean and white after.
Clean shower curtain
Shower curtains will stain and become unsightly over time. But you can keep them clean by scrubbing them with baking soda and a damp brush every few weeks or months.
Extinguish a small cooking fire
Those panic inducing cooking fires sparked by oil or grease can be easily extinguished with baking soda. Baking soda adds carbon dioxide to the fire to put it out. And that’s why the stuff is found in fire extinguishers.
Repel garden pests
If you have a pest problem, then be glad baking soda exists. Ants, silverfish, and roaches don’t like the stuff. Sprinkle baking soda on the perimeter of your garden to keep those irritating pests away.
Use as dry shampoo
If you are tired of constantly washing your hair, try baking soda as dry shampoo. It pulls excess oils away from the scalp. Make sure to sprinkle baking soda with a light hand, and rub in thoroughly. Rinse well and repeat when necessary.
Use as a mouthwash
Baking soda works well for your oral health. Its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties make it an alternative to conventional mouthwash. Just mix half a teaspoon of mouthwash with warm water, and gargle or swish.
Wash fruits and vegetables
Washing fruits and vegetables removes pesticides and other chemicals. Baking soda is an effective way to thoroughly wash your produce. Soak fruits and vegetables in water with a spoonful of baking soda for 15 minutes. Rinse and dry the produce after.
Strip paint
Leave those harsh chemicals on the shelf and instead, use baking soda for an easy and non-toxic way to strip paint. Mix hot water and baking soda, then apply to the surface and scrape the paint. For direct applications on small hardware, you can put the pieces directly into hot water and baking soda.
Brighten laundry
Add half a cup of baking soda to your laundry load. That brightens colors and whites when used together with regular liquid laundry detergent. Your clothes will be odor-free too!
Remove grease stains
Garage grease stains can be removed with baking soda. Sprinkle with a heavy hand, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Grab a damp cloth or sponge and scrub the affected area. Repeat the process if necessary.
Use as a face mask
Baking soda has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm acne flare-ups and dry out blemishes. Just mix baking soda, water, and lemon juice and try it out as a face mask. This also helps reduce acne scars.
Help remove splinters
Baking soda helps remove splinters and swelling on the skin. Make a paste with water and baking soda then apply it to the splinter. Cover the area with a bandaid, the splinter should be easily removed the next day.
Clean wall scuffs
Your kid’s crayon artwork and the daily unseen hits have walls taking a beating. Use baking soda to remove those wall scuffs and kiddie art with a damp sponge. Clean away and bring the wall back to its former glory.
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