Baking soda is a versatile household ingredient that can be useful for cleaning, deodorizing, and some personal care tasks. Here are 15 practical baking soda tricks—along with a few precautions.
- Neutralize refrigerator odors by placing an open box in the fridge and replacing it every few months.
- Freshen carpets and rugs by sprinkling baking soda, letting it sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuuming.
- Remove stubborn kitchen stains from sinks and countertops with a paste of baking soda and water.
- Clean pots and pans by soaking them with warm water and baking soda to help loosen baked-on food.
- Deodorize shoes by sprinkling a small amount inside overnight, then shaking it out before wearing.
- Freshen trash cans by sprinkling some in the bottom to help absorb odors.
- Clean bathroom surfaces such as sinks, tubs, and tiles using a damp sponge and baking soda as a mild abrasive.
- Reduce odors in laundry by adding a small amount to the wash to help neutralize smells.
- Freshen pet bedding by sprinkling baking soda on the fabric, letting it sit briefly, then vacuuming if appropriate.
- Remove coffee and tea stains from mugs with a baking soda paste.
- Clean cutting boards by gently scrubbing with baking soda and rinsing well.
- Help absorb odors on upholstered furniture by sprinkling lightly, waiting, and vacuuming.
- Freshen gym bags by placing a small open container of baking soda inside when not in use.
- Gently clean jewelry made of certain metals (avoid porous gemstones and follow care recommendations for the specific material).
- Reduce drain odors by flushing the drain with baking soda followed by hot water. (Avoid mixing household cleaners unless the product instructions specifically say it’s safe.)
Safety tips
- Baking soda is not a substitute for medical treatments or skincare products for chronic conditions.
- Avoid getting it in your eyes, and discontinue use on skin if it causes irritation.
- Do not mix baking soda with strong cleaning chemicals unless the manufacturer’s instructions recommend it, as some combinations can be ineffective or hazardous.
- For delicate fabrics, natural stone, or specialty surfaces, test a small hidden area first.
