The Benefits and Uses of Bicarbonate of Soda

Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) is great for cleaning and laundry. But it’s best to buy bulk online (the tiny pots used for cooking in supermarkets are not big enough). Supermarkets don’t sell bulk baking soda, because otherwise people would buy it, and they would not make profits from chemical cleaners. Baking soda can’t be labelled as ‘new and improved!

Although safer, keep baking soda away from children and pets. Never mix any cleaner with vinegar or bleach. Don’t add essential oils to mixes if pregnant/nursing or near babies/pets. 

Avoid use on aluminium or delicate fabrics. Use with plastic-free cloths and sponges and rubber gloves.

You can recycle empty chemical liquid bottles. For half-full bottles, don’t pour down drain (dispose of at your local tip).

Reliable Multi-Purpose Cleaner

Bicarbonate of soda makes a strong, gentle cleaner for most surfaces. Mix with water to scrub ovens, sinks, and stained counters. It breaks down grease and lifts dirt without scratching. Then rinse and leave to dry.

A sprinkle on a damp sponge will clean tiles, shine taps, and remove built-up grime on cooker hoods.

Fresh Laundry Booster

Adding bicarbonate of soda to laundry gives whites a boost and brightens colours. It softens water, helping detergents work better. Pour half a cup in with your usual powder or liquid. It removes odour from clothes, towels, and even trainers.

For tougher smells, mix with water and soak items before washing. Bedding comes out fresher and towels feel softer.

Simple Carpet and Upholstery Freshener

Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda over the affected areas and leave it for fifteen minutes or longer, then vacuum it up. It helps lift stains and removes trapped smells from pets, smoke, or food. This works on mattresses and car seats as well.

Natural Air Freshener

Bicarbonate of soda neutralises odours, rather than covering them up. Place an open container in the fridge, wardrobe, or bathroom. It absorbs bad smells and keeps the air fresher.

Stove Tops and Cookware

Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda, then add a splash of warm water. Wait ten minutes, then scrub with a sponge or cloth. The residue lifts off without strong fumes or scratching. Stainless steel, enamel, and even glass cookware come up shiny again.

Clean Drains and Remove Blockages

Pouring a cup of bicarbonate of soda followed by vinegar can clear slow drains. Wait five minutes, then flush with hot water. It helps break down fat and food, leaving pipes smelling fresh. This method also clears drains in bathrooms or utility rooms, where hair or soap scum cause blocks.

Deodoriser for Shoes and Kit Bags

Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda inside, and tap out the powder the next day. It soaks up odour and moisture, keeping shoes and bags fresher. This works for gym lockers and sports helmets.

You can also sprinkle into pet beds, leave for a while (when they are out playing) then shake out thoroughly and/or vacuum, to absorb odours.

Fridge and Freezer Cleaner

Mix bicarbonate of soda with a little water to create a paste. Wipe down shelves, drawers, and seals. Rinse with a clean sponge and dry. Stains vanish and stubborn odours disappear.

Gentle Silverware Polish

Rub with a simple paste of bicarbonate soda and water, with a soft cloth. Rinse and buff dry. This can remove tarnish, but does not scratch or erode the metal.

Microwave Cleaner

Fill a bowl with water and add two tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda. Microwave on high for five minutes. The steam loosens food particles, making it easy to wipe down.

Never heat up baby or pet food in microwaves.

Clean Coffee and Tea Stains

Mix a bit of baking soda in water and scrub mugs or teapots stained with coffee or tea. The stains come off with a small amount of effort, thanks to the gentle abrasion.

Freshen Dustbins

Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of your kitchen or bathroom bin to stop smells before they start. Replace with fresh powder every week for best results.

Remove Sticky Residue

Tackle stubborn sticky residues from labels, tape, or glue by making a paste with baking soda and a bit of oil. Rub gently until the residue lifts, then wash clean.

Fire Extinguisher for Small Grease Fires

If a small grease fire starts while cooking, turn off the heat, and pour baking soda on the flames. It cuts off oxygen and helps put out the fire. Never use water on a grease fire.

Fill is sold in glass boxes with cardboard refills.