Baking Soda: The Original Green Cleaner

With so many new eco friendly cleaning products available today, it sometimes is overwhelming to find the right one. Who knew that box of baking soda hiding in the back of your fridge is one of the best things you can use to clean all around your house! It doesn't have any harsh chemicals, doesn't give off a nasty smell, or damage the environment. In fact, that old box of baking soda can do a multitude of wonderful things, and only costs around $2 at your local grocery store.

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, has been around for a long time, but in 1971 was produced as we are familiar with it today. Many people associate baking soda with baking - but it really has so many uses! So, get that box out from the back of the fridge and give it a try. Here are a couple great ways to put baking soda to use around your home.

Eliminating Pet Odor

If you have cats, you are probably familiar with litters that have baking soda added. Instead of paying premium prices for the top brand, pick up your regular choice and sprinkle baking soda into your litter. After each use and cleaning of your litter, sprinkle a bit more into the litter to keep it smelling fresh.

If your pet has an accident, spread some baking soda directly onto the area. Allow the baking soda to soak up the accident and let dry. When baking soda is dry, use your vacuum cleaner to thoroughly clean the area. You can also sprinkle some baking soda on your pet's favorite spot to sleep and then vacuum to help eliminate pet odor. Make sure to check your carpet or fabric before using baking soda to ensure no staining will happen.

Cleaning Baked-On Pots and Pans

Scrubbing pots and pans is something no one enjoys. By using some baking soda, you can quickly cut down on the scrubbing! Take your pot or pan in question and apply a good amount of baking soda. Add some hot water and let sit for a couple minutes, then clean as normal. Use baking soda directly on the baked on area as a scrubbing additive to help if pot or pan needs additional cleaning.

If you are tired of looking at your baked on coffee pot, try using a solution of 1/4-cup baking soda and 4 cups warm water. Pour into your coffee pot and let sit overnight. Wash as normal and watch your stains disappear!

The Bathroom

Baking soda can do wonders for your bathroom! By sprinkling a good amount onto the bottom of your tub or shower and scrubbing with a wet sponge, you can easily clean without using any harsh chemicals! Not only will your tub or shower sparkle, it will smell great too. You can also use some baking soda sprinkled onto a sponge to clean your sinks and toilets. By mixing 1/2 cup of baking soda with a bucket of warm water, you have a great solution to wash your floors that will leave them clean and deodorized.

The Bedroom

Help keep your linens smelling and looking great by adding 1/2-cup baking soda into your wash to help boost the cleaning power of your regular detergent. This is great for any kind of laundry including your baby's linens and clothes - even cloth diapers. Baking soda applied to a damp sponge also helps eliminate stains from furniture and marks on walls, including crayon. Sprinkle baking soda directly onto your carpet and let sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming. It will help make your special space smell wonderful and clean!

There are many more uses for regular old baking soda! Pick up a box today and enjoy the benefits of using an economical, environmentally friendly, and safe cleaning agent!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium_bicarbonate

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