How to Clean Using Baking Soda

Baking soda is commonly found in nearly every house. Some recipes call for it, and it is often used to rid the refrigerator of funky smells. But did you know that baking soda is also makes an excellent cleaner?

Besides the fact that it works very well as a cleaner in many different applications, it is also a non toxic, cheap alternative to pricey, chemical-based cleaners. Here are some handy ways you can use baking soda to clean around the house.

Cleaning with Baking Soda in the Kitchen

You likely already knew that baking soda works for smelly refrigerators. But it has many other uses int he kitchen as well, and not just in cookies.

* Like the refrigerator, baking soda is good for absorbing icky garbage odors. Sprinkle a little in the bottom of the can and in the bottom of the bag as well.
* Clean stubborn spots on countertops and other surfaces by sprinkling a damp cloth with baking soda and using it to gently scrub the spot away. Rinse clean with water. (This also works for scuff marks on floors.)
* When soaking stubborn, burnt-on food in pots, add a little baking soda. It will help loosen the food and save you a lot of scrubbing.

Cleaning with Baking Soda in the Bathroom

* Remove stubborn stains from bathroom fixtures with a paste made of three parts baking soda to one part water. Apply a generous amount of paste to the surface, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub it off.
* Avoid drain clogs and drain odors by pouring 1/4 cup baking soda down the drain every week. Follow up with a good hot water rinse.

Cleaning with Baking Soda Around the House

* If your carpet has a smelly spot, sprinkle it with a little baking soda. After about 15 minutes, vacuum it up. Repeat as needed.
* Replace half of your usual amount of laundry detergent with baking soda. This will save you money and keep your clothes fresh.
* Baking soda can be used to help clean up grease spills in the garage and around the house. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda on the spill and let sit to absorb. Sweep up baking soda and repeat as needed.