We all know baking soda is used in baking. It’s a sodium bicarbonate and, when added to baked goods, it releases carbon dioxide gas. That gas leavens bread and makes cookies fluffy. Typically recipes call for a teaspoon or so, so what to do with the remaining box? We’ve found 14 non-baking uses for that leftover baking soda.
Clean Burnt on Residue
Don’t toss that pan or baking sheet just because of burnt on food. Pour baking soda onto the pot or baking sheet. Add hot water and a bit of dish detergent. Let sit a minimum of 15 minutes (longer if it’s really burnt on), then wash. The residue should come off.
Oven Cleaner
Throw out the smelly chemicals. The next time the oven needs a good cleaning, sprinkle baking soda inside. Using a water bottle, give the inside a light spritz of water. Let sit overnight. The next morning, use a sponge to scrub away dirt. You will need to rinse again with water to remove any residue.
Rug Freshener
Sprinkle on the carpet and wait from 15 minutes to overnight. Vacuum as usual.
Refrigerator Deodorizer
Place an open box in the back of the fridge. It will absorb any bad odors.
Produce Cleaner
Fill the sink with water. Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda into the water. Wash fruits and veggies in the water. Then rinse with clean water and blot dry with a paper towel.
Help Itchy Bug Bites
Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Apply directly to the bite.
Bath Soak
What’s better than soaking in a warm bath after a long day? Soaking in a bath with 1/4 cup of baking soda added. Baking soda will help remedy itchy skin, draw toxins out of the body and soften skin. Add Epsom salt and essential oils to the bath for added relaxation.
Unclog a Drain
Having issues with a drain running slow? Run hot water down the drain for a few minutes. Then, pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain. Next, pour 1 cup of white vinegar down the drain. Let sit for 5-10 minutes and flush with warm water. This may have to be repeated a few times for stubborn clogs.
Silver Polish
Mom’s silver will sparkle when cleaned with baking soda. Mix 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub onto silver, rinse and dry.
Clean Hairbrushes
After a while, build-up forms at the base of hairbrushes thanks to hair products and natural oils. Get a basin and fill with warm water. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda into the water. Soak the hairbrush for 20 minutes. Rinse and let dry before using.
Flower Refresher
Put 1 teaspoon of baking soda into a vase with fresh water. It will help to keep flowers fresh.
Garbage Disposal Cleaner
Wondering where that musty smell is coming from when washing dishes? If it’s not from your sponge, it’s probably from the disposal. To remedy that, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the disposal then add 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Let everything foam. When the foam dies down, run the disposal with hot water.
Foot Soak
In any given week, our feet get quite the workout. Give them a treat with an easy foot soak. Grab a basin, fill with warm water and add 3 tablespoons of baking soda. Soak for 20-25 minutes.
Make Slime
Homemade slime is one of the most popular craft activities with young teens right now. One of the four ingredients is baking soda. If you want to make slime with the family, we found tons of slime recipes on Pinterest.
Do you have a tip for using baking soda? Share yours below!