You probably have a box of baking soda in your pantry right now, and chances are you only use it for one thing: baking. But what you may not know is that this unassuming little ingredient can be used for so much more. From cleaning and polishing to a baking soda bath and more, there are dozens of different ways that baking soda can improve your life – here are just a few of them.
- Keeping produce fresh
Baking soda can help keep your fruits and vegetables fresher for longer. Just add a teaspoon of baking soda to a quart of water and soak your produce for 20 minutes – this will help remove any dirt or pesticides before you eat it.
- Extending the life of flowers
Bouquet looking a little wilted? Revive it with some baking soda! Dissolve four tablespoons of baking soda in three cups of warm water and add it to your vase. The flowers will absorb the mixture and look good as new.
- Personal hygiene
In addition to its many uses around the home, baking soda can also be used for personal hygiene. It’s an effective natural deodorant that helps neutralise odours instead of masking them with fragrances. You can also take a baking soda bath to relax and revitalise.
- Polishing silver
Ditch the expensive silver polish and reach for the baking soda instead. Make a paste out of equal parts baking soda and water, and use it to polish your silver jewellery, candlesticks, or serving pieces. Rinse with clear water when you’re finished and dry with a soft cloth.
- Deodorising carpets
Baking soda is great for freshening up carpets and rugs. Just sprinkle it liberally over the affected area, let it sit for an hour or two, then vacuum it up. You’ll be amazed at how much better your carpets smell!
- Unclogging drains
Pour half a cup of baking soda down your drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water. This natural remedy will help break down any build-up in your pipes and get them flowing freely again.
H3: Try some of these applications today
As you can see, there are dozens of different ways that baking soda can be used to improve your life. So next time you’re at the store, pick up an extra box (or two) and start experimenting!