Cleaning – an exciting blog topic, right? Well, maybe not for everyone, but if you’re anything like me, you secretly love discovering new tips and tricks to make everyday household chores a little easier and more efficient.
This post isn’t sponsored by Arm & Hammer or any other baking soda brand; I just love sharing what works for me. Baking soda is one of the most versatile, inexpensive, and eco-friendly cleaning agents out there, and I’ve found countless ways to incorporate it into my daily routine.
The Bulk Baking Soda Purchase That Changed Everything
A couple of years ago, my husband, Mark, came home from BJ’s with the biggest bag of baking soda I had ever seen. (What is it about buying in bulk that guys love so much?) From what I understand, this extra-large quantity is typically used for restaurant cleaning and swimming pool maintenance. Funny thing is, we don’t own a restaurant or a pool.
At first, I laughed, thinking this massive bag would sit around for years, only being used one teaspoon at a time for baking cookies. But then I started researching and experimenting, and I quickly discovered that baking soda is a miracle worker when it comes to cleaning. It has so many practical applications beyond the kitchen!
My Favorite Use: Cleaning the Stovetop
If there’s one area in my home that constantly needs attention, it’s the stovetop. No matter how careful we try to be, cooking always seems to result in splatters, spills, and burned-on messes.
Thankfully, baking soda makes cleaning the stovetop a breeze. Here’s my method:
- Wait for the stovetop to cool completely. You don’t want to burn yourself or create an even bigger mess by working with heat.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the surface.
- Wet a cloth or sponge and scrub away. Some stubborn spots may require a little extra elbow grease, but baking soda does an excellent job of lifting stains without scratching the cooktop.
- Wipe clean and admire the results. It’s almost magical!
The best part? Baking soda is far more affordable than store-bought liquid cooktop cleaners. A standard 8 oz. box costs less than a dollar, and it’s all-natural. Why expose ourselves to unnecessary chemicals when we work so hard to keep our homes, bodies, and environments safe and healthy? Using baking soda means fewer harsh fumes, a safer space for kids and pets, and a lower grocery bill. It’s a win-win-win!
More Genius Cleaning Hacks with Baking Soda
Once I realized how effective baking soda was for the stovetop, I started exploring other cleaning possibilities. Here are a few of my favorite ways to use baking soda around the house:
1. Laundry Booster
Adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry helps liquid detergent work more efficiently. It enhances the cleaning power of your detergent, leaving clothes fresher and whites whiter. Plus, it naturally softens fabric without the need for artificial softeners.
2. Odor Eliminator for Shoes and Sports Equipment
Sweaty shoes, cleats, and gym bags can develop an unbearable odor over time. A simple sprinkle of baking soda inside shoes and sports bags neutralizes odors instantly. Just let it sit overnight and shake out any excess before wearing or using them again.
3. Carpet Deodorizer
If you have pets, you know that keeping carpets fresh can be a challenge. Sprinkling baking soda on frequently used carpet areas absorbs odors naturally. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly for a fresh, clean scent.
4. DIY Silver Polish
Cleaning silver jewelry and flatware used to be a dreaded chore—until I discovered baking soda. By mixing baking soda with warm water and aluminum foil, you can effortlessly remove tarnish without scrubbing.
5. Gentle Scrub for Sinks and Bathtubs
Bathroom sinks and bathtubs can accumulate grime quickly, especially if you have hard water. A paste made from baking soda and water works wonders on these surfaces, lifting stains and soap scum effortlessly.
6. Natural Drain Cleaner
Instead of reaching for harsh chemical drain cleaners, try this: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for a few minutes, then flush with hot water. It’s an effective, non-toxic way to keep your pipes clear.
7. Bug Bite Relief
Applying a paste of baking soda and water to insect bites or stings helps soothe itching and reduce inflammation. It’s a simple, all-natural remedy that really works.
Why Baking Soda is a Household Essential
After experimenting with baking soda for so many cleaning tasks, I finally admitted that Mark was onto something when he bought that enormous bag. Whether he intended for us to have a lifetime supply of baking ingredients or was hoping for an endless stream of chocolate chip cookies, his bulk purchase turned out to be one of the most practical household investments we’ve ever made.
Baking soda is more than just a baking ingredient it’s a multi-purpose cleaner, deodorizer, and gentle scrub that replaces dozens of expensive, chemical-laden cleaning products. It’s safe for your family, great for the environment, and easy on your wallet.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a natural, cost-effective way to clean your home, cleaning-with-baking-soda is the way to go. Whether it’s freshening up your laundry, scrubbing down your stovetop, or deodorizing carpets, this humble pantry staple has a solution for almost every cleaning challenge.
What are your favorite ways to use baking soda around the house? Share your tips in the comments I’d love to hear them!
