Baking soda is a staple that every home should have. In its traditional form, baking soda is a great addition to recipes and has many other uses around the house. The slightly abrasive compound’s natural properties help remove grime from surfaces, while it also absorbs odors in a matter of minutes.
Baking soda can be used for many things around the house. Find out how to use baking soda for your everyday life by reading through the following list of tips and ideas.
1. Make Your Own “Granite” Polish
Baking soda is one of the few ingredients that has the power to make your stainless steel appliances look like new again, without harsh chemicals or polishes. Simply add three parts baking soda to one part water, mix it together and use a clean rag or sponge to wipe down your appliances.
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The baking powder will give them a bright, polished surface while the abrasive nature of the mixture will get rid of hard-to-remove scuff marks and scratches.
2. Have You Heard? Baking Soda Can Whiten Your Teeth
The abrasiveness in baking soda makes it an excellent cleaning agent for your teeth. The compound works to remove surface stains from the enamel on your teeth, which can make them appear yellow if they are exposed to too many dark liquids like coffee or red wine.
3. How About a Baking Soda Shampoo?
Baking soda has the power to remove buildup from your scalp and hair, which is why it’s an essential ingredient in many high quality shampoos. A baking soda shampoo can help remove dead skin cells and product residue that can cause dandruff and dry hair. Mix three parts baking soda with one part water for a low cost alternative to expensive shampoos.
4. Got a Bottle of Vinegar? Make Your Own All-Purpose Cleaner
If you have a bottle of apple cider vinegar, you can use it in combination with baking soda for your own all-purpose cleaner. Start by combining equal parts water and vinegar and add one tablespoon of baking soda. Shake well and you have yourself a homemade cleaner that can be used on any surface in your home.
5. Does Your Dog Smell? Get Rid of the Odor With Baking Soda
Does your dog have an unpleasant smell coming from his mouth? It’s likely caused by plaque build-up, which can be removed with baking soda. Simply wet his toothbrush and add a sprinkle of baking soda to the bristles, then brush just like you would with regular toothpaste. His breath should be fresh in no time!
6. Got Bugs? Baking Soda Can Help
If you have an ant infestation or other insect problem, baking soda can provide an easy solution. Mix equal parts water and baking soda until it forms a paste, then use a spray bottle to apply the mixture directly onto insects. This will serve as an effective poison, killing off ants and other creepy crawlies in just minutes.
7. Stop Clogging Your Drain With Baking Soda
Baking soda is particularly useful because of its ability to break down fat, oil and grease. If you have a clogged drain in your kitchen or bathroom, pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain followed by a cup of vinegar. This will cause a chemical reaction that can help remove tough buildups from your drain over time!
8. Got Pet Stains? Baking Soda Will Easily Remove Them
If your pet has an “accident” on any of your carpets or floors, baking soda can help. Sprinkle the powder onto the surface to be cleaned, then use a damp towel to gently rub it into the affected area. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before vacuuming away!
In conclusion, there are many different ways to use baking soda around the house. Be sure to pick up a few boxes at your local grocery store to make cleaning easier and more effective!