Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile and gentle cleaning agent that effectively removes stains, deodorises, and acts as an abrasive for scrubbing surfaces without causing damage. Let’s delve into how to clean with baking soda in different areas of your home.
Kitchen Cleaning with Baking Soda
The kitchen is the heart of any home, but it’s also a place where spills, stains, and odours can accumulate. Baking soda comes to the rescue with its natural cleaning properties.
Cleaning Kitchen Countertops
To clean kitchen countertops with baking soda, follow these simple steps:
i. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water.
ii. Apply the paste to the countertop and let it sit for a few minutes.
iii. Gently scrub the surface using a soft sponge or cloth.
iv. Rinse with water and wipe dry.
Refreshing Cutting Boards
Baking soda can effectively eliminate odours from cutting boards:
i. Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the cutting board.
ii. Rub the baking soda into the surface using a damp cloth.
iii. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
iv. Dry the cutting board standing upright to prevent warping.
Bathroom Cleaning with Baking Soda
The bathroom is another area that requires frequent cleaning due to soap scum, grime, and mould. Baking soda offers a safe and effective solution.
Cleaning Bathroom Tiles
Baking soda can bring back the shine to your bathroom tiles:
i. Make a paste using baking soda and water.
ii. Apply the paste to the tiles and grout.
iii. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
iv. Scrub the tiles gently using a brush or sponge.
v. Rinse thoroughly with water.
Deodorising the Toilet
Get rid of unpleasant odours from your toilet bowl with baking soda:
i. Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
ii. Let it sit for a few minutes.
iii. Scrub the bowl with a toilet brush.
iv. Flush the toilet to rinse away the baking soda.
Baking Soda for Laundry
Baking soda is a game-changer when it comes to doing laundry, offering various benefits.
Natural Fabric Softener
Add ½ cup of baking soda to your laundry during the rinse cycle to soften fabrics and eliminate odours.
Stain Removal
For tough stains, make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wash as usual.
Freshening Up Clothes
Sprinkle baking soda in your laundry hamper to keep your clothes smelling fresh before washing.
Baking Soda for Carpet Cleaning
Carpets can harbour dust, dirt, and unwanted odours. Baking soda can be a lifesaver for carpet cleaning.
Deodorise Carpets
To deodorise your carpets, follow these steps:
i. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the carpet.
ii. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for strong odours.
iii. Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda along with the odours.
Removing Carpet Stains
Tackle stubborn carpet stains with baking soda:
i. Make a paste with baking soda and water.
ii. Apply the paste to the stain and gently rub.
iii. Let it dry and vacuum the residue.
Baking Soda for Refrigerator Cleaning
A clean and odour-free refrigerator is essential for food safety. Baking soda can help maintain a fresh fridge environment.
Refrigerator Deodoriser
Place an open box of baking soda in your refrigerator to absorb and neutralise odours.
Cleaning Refrigerator Shelves
Clean your refrigerator shelves with baking soda:
i. Dissolve 4 tablespoons of baking soda in a quart of warm water.
ii. Dip a sponge or cloth into the solution and wipe the shelves.
iii. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth.
Cleaning with baking soda is not only effective but also a safer and more eco-friendly option compared to many commercial cleaning products. Whether you want to refresh your home, remove stubborn stains, or eliminate unpleasant odours, baking soda can be your go-to solution. Embrace the power of this versatile ingredient and enjoy a cleaner, fresher living space while reducing your environmental impact.