15 Surprising Uses for Baking Soda in Your Home Cleaning Routine

Baking soda is a household favorite for more than just baking. Many of us keep a box tucked away in the kitchen, but it's also a fantastic cleaning agent. You might be amazed at how well it works to refresh everything from ovens to carpets.

This versatile powder is an essential alkaline that can conquer even the toughest cleaning challenges. It's one of the most eco-friendly ways to maintain a spotless home. Here's a selection of top tasks you can tackle with baking soda.

Clean with Baking Soda

Baking soda can effectively clean a variety of surfaces without resorting to harsh chemicals. For particularly stubborn jobs, combine it with vinegar or lemon juice for a powerful cleaning duo. However, never mix baking soda with bleach, as this can be both ineffective and risky.

Here are our favorite ways to use baking soda around the house.

"I always have a large container of baking soda in my utility room," says a cleaning expert. "It's handy for numerous cleaning tasks and even for baking on weekends."

1. Windows

For a streak-free finish on your windows, try baking soda. Just apply it to a damp cloth and wipe the glass clean. For tough spots caused by limescale or grease, sprinkle baking soda, then spray with white vinegar before wiping it all away.

2. The Oven

Skip the harsh chemicals when cleaning your oven. Instead, create a paste with baking soda and water, applying it to the surfaces. After spraying with vinegar, let it foam to break down stubborn grime, making it easy to wipe clean.

"I prefer natural methods for oven cleaning, like mixing baking soda with white vinegar," says a cleaning enthusiast. "Just dampen the oven, cover with baking soda, and let it work its magic!"

3. Carpets and Curtains

To freshen carpets and fabrics, mix half boiling water, two teaspoons of baking soda, and a capful of your favorite fabric softener in a spray bottle. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then spray from a distance of about 8 inches.

4. The Shower

To remove limescale from your shower, sprinkle baking soda on a wet microfiber cloth along with a few drops of dish soap. Scrub the glass and for the shower tray, apply baking soda directly and scrub with a damp brush.

5. Mugs and China

For stained mugs, sprinkle baking soda onto a scrubbing pad and scrub for several minutes. Rinse or place in the dishwasher for a fresh look. This method also works wonders on stained china.

6. Drains

To keep your drains fresh, pour hot water followed by half a cup of baking soda down the drain weekly. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with hot water to eliminate unpleasant odors.

7. Cookware

For stained cookware, try boiling water with baking soda for 15 minutes. This method can restore the shine to your beloved pots and pans.

8. Laundry

Add a cup of baking soda to your laundry to combat odors and keep whites bright. It's effective for maintaining the vibrancy of colors too.

9. Tile Grout

For cleaning grout, mix two parts baking soda with one part hydrogen peroxide. Apply with a toothbrush, let it sit for 20 minutes, and rinse off for a sparkling clean finish.

10. Sinks

To clean your kitchen sink, sprinkle baking soda on half a lemon and wipe down the surfaces. This combination creates a frothy reaction that helps dissolve dirt.

11. Refrigerator

Keep your fridge smelling fresh by placing a bowl of baking soda inside. Change it every few weeks to maintain efficiency and eliminate odors.

12. Tupperware

To tackle stains on Tupperware, soak them overnight in hot water mixed with baking soda.

13. The Microwave

Use a damp sponge with baking soda to clean your microwave. It's quick, easy, and effective at removing odors.

14. Trash Can

To deodorize your trash can, wash it out with hot water and dish soap. While still wet, sprinkle baking soda inside. Let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse and dry for a fresh smell.

15. The Pool

Using baking soda in your pool helps balance the pH levels and combats algae growth. The recommended dosage is 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons of water to raise the ppm by 10.

Does baking soda kill ants?

Yes, when mixed with vinegar and sprinkled on an ant nest, baking soda can help eliminate them. However, find humane ways to manage pests whenever possible.

Can baking soda kill bed bugs?

No, baking soda is not effective against bed bugs. For infestations, seek professional assistance.

Is baking soda a good cleaning agent?

Absolutely! Baking soda is a mild alkali that dissolves dirt and grease efficiently. It's a safe, non-toxic alternative to many commercial cleaners.

What should you avoid cleaning with baking soda?

Avoid using baking soda on aluminum cookware, antique silver, gold-plated items, and marble surfaces, as it can cause damage.

Next, discover even more natural cleaning methods with Castile soap, a gentle yet powerful option.