Baking soda is one of those household staples that doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. It’s cheap, non-toxic, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re tackling odors, cleaning up messes, or even soothing irritated skin, this little box of magic can do it all.
The best part? You probably already have some sitting in your pantry. So instead of spending money on fancy cleaning products or deodorizers, give baking soda a shot! Here are 10 surprising ways to use it around your home.
1. Get Rid of Stinky Shoes
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If your sneakers (or your kid’s shoes) smell like they’ve been through a battlefield, don’t worry—baking soda to the rescue! Just sprinkle a generous amount inside each shoe and let it sit overnight.
By morning, the baking soda will have soaked up all those unpleasant odors. Just shake it out, and you’re good to go. If you have fabric-lined shoes, a quick vacuum can help remove any leftover powder.
2. Keep Your Fridge Smelling Fresh
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You know that weird smell that hits you when you open the fridge? It’s usually a mix of leftovers, old produce, and mystery spills. Instead of masking odors with air fresheners, let baking soda absorb them.
Place an open box of baking soda in the back of your fridge and forget about it for a few months. For an extra clean fridge, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with warm water and use it to wipe down shelves and drawers.
3. Make Your Silverware Shine Again
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If your silverware has lost its sparkle, don’t worry—you don’t need fancy polishes. Just mix a little baking soda with water to make a paste (about three parts baking soda to one part water).
Rub it onto your tarnished silverware with a soft cloth or sponge, rinse well, and buff it dry. It’ll be gleaming again in no time!
4. Unclog Drains the Easy Way
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Dealing with a slow drain? Before reaching for harsh chemicals, try this simple trick:
- Pour about half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
- Follow it with a cup of white vinegar.
- Let it bubble and fizz for about 10 minutes.
- Flush with hot water.
This natural method helps break down gunk and keeps your pipes fresh!
5. Refresh Your Carpets
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Carpets can hold onto all kinds of odors—pets, food, feet, you name it. But instead of spraying chemical deodorizers, sprinkle a layer of baking soda over your carpet.
Let it sit for 15-30 minutes (or longer if you have time), then vacuum it up. It’ll absorb odors and leave your carpet smelling fresh again. Try doing this once a month for best results!
6. Clean Your Oven Without Harsh Chemicals
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Scrubbing the oven is never fun, but baking soda makes it easier. Instead of using strong-smelling oven cleaners, try this:
- Sprinkle baking soda on any greasy or burnt spots.
- Lightly spray with water until it forms a paste.
- Let it sit for 15-20 minutes (or overnight for tough grime).
- Scrub and wipe clean with a damp cloth.
It works like a charm and won’t leave behind any harsh fumes!
7. Brighten Up Grout
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If your kitchen or bathroom grout is looking grimy, baking soda can help.
Make a paste with baking soda and water, spread it on the grout, and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, scrub with an old toothbrush and rinse. If your grout needs extra whitening, add a splash of vinegar for an extra boost.
8. Remove Scuff Marks from Shoes
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Those annoying scuff marks on your favorite shoes? Gone in seconds with baking soda!
Just sprinkle a little on a damp cloth or toothbrush and gently rub the scuff. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth, and your shoes will look fresh again. This trick works great on rubber soles and leather shoes.
9. Make Chrome Fixtures Shine
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Faucets, showerheads, and other chrome fixtures can get dull from soap scum and water spots. But baking soda can bring back the shine!
Make a paste with baking soda and water, rub it onto the chrome with a soft cloth, and rinse. Wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth, and your fixtures will sparkle like new.
10. Soothe Bug Bites and Itchy Skin
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Baking soda isn’t just for cleaning—it can also help with skin irritation. If you have an itchy bug bite, mix a little baking soda with water to make a paste and apply it directly to the spot.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing. If your skin is extra itchy, add half a cup of baking soda to your bathwater for all-over relief.
