Here are 15 practical baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) tricks that many people find useful around the home and for personal care. While the title mentions “every woman,” these tips are useful for anyone.
- Neutralize refrigerator odors
- Place an open box or small bowl of baking soda in the fridge to absorb odors. Replace it every 1–3 months.
- Freshen carpets
- Sprinkle lightly over carpets or rugs, let sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum.
- Clean kitchen sinks
- Sprinkle on a damp sponge and gently scrub stainless steel or porcelain sinks.
- Remove stubborn food residue
- Make a paste with water and baking soda to loosen baked-on food from pots and pans before washing.
- Deodorize shoes
- Sprinkle a small amount inside shoes overnight, then shake it out before wearing.
- Freshen trash cans
- Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the trash can to help control odors.
- Clean cutting boards
- Scrub with a paste of baking soda and water to help remove stains and odors.
- Brighten laundry
- Add ½ cup to a load of laundry to help boost detergent performance and reduce odors.
- Reduce pet odors
- Sprinkle on pet bedding, let sit briefly, then vacuum or wash as appropriate.
- Clean bathroom surfaces
- Use as a mild abrasive on sinks, tubs, and tiles. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
- Relieve itchy insect bites
- A paste of baking soda and water may temporarily soothe itching for some people. Stop if irritation develops.
- Neutralize minor cooking odors on hands
- Rub wet hands with a little baking soda, then rinse to help remove odors like garlic or onion.
- Polish silver (when appropriate)
- Use a gentle baking soda paste for some silver items, but avoid antiques or delicate finishes unless you’re sure it’s safe.
- Extinguish a small grease fire (only if safe)
- Baking soda can help smother a small stovetop grease fire by releasing carbon dioxide when heated. Never use water on a grease fire, and if the fire is spreading, evacuate and call emergency services.
- Use in baking
- As a leavening agent, baking soda helps baked goods rise when combined with acidic ingredients like yogurt, buttermilk, vinegar, or lemon juice.
A few precautions:
- Avoid using baking soda on aluminum cookware frequently, as it may discolor the metal.
- Don’t use it as a daily toothpaste replacement because it’s abrasive and lacks fluoride.
- Avoid putting large amounts down drains unless you’re following a recommended cleaning method, as it isn’t a cure-all for clogs.
- If using it on skin, discontinue use if it causes irritation.
