10 of the Very Best Ways To Use Baking Soda

You’ve probably heard that baking soda can do just about anything, right? Well, as a busy mom always on the lookout for the next best cleaning hack, I’ve put that to the test. I’ve sifted through countless tips to bring you my absolute favorite ways to use baking soda around the house.

These tricks aren’t just easy; they’re game changers, making everything from your kitchen to your closet fresher without the harsh chemicals.

Here are 10 smart, simple ways to use baking soda.

Freshen Up Your Closet

If you’re battling musty smells in your closet, here’s a straightforward fix: stash an open box or a small glass jar of baking soda on one of the shelves. It quietly absorbs all those unwanted odors, leaving your closet smelling clean without any overpowering scents. It’s a hassle-free way to keep your clothes smelling fresh, especially in those closed, cramped spaces.

Refresh Your Mattress

A fresh mattress can make all the difference in getting a good night’s sleep. Start by giving your mattress a thorough vacuum. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the top, and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Vacuum it all up and you’re left with a deodorized mattress, ready for some dreamy slumber. This easy routine is perfect for keeping your sleeping space fresh and inviting.

Clean Your Dishwasher

Ever notice how your dishwasher can start to smell a bit… off? A quick sprinkle of baking soda in the bottom before your next cycle can do wonders. It freshens up the interior and helps scrub away any lingering stains without any extra scrubbing from you. It’s a simple trick to ensure your dishes come out sparkling clean every time.

Revive Your Smelly Dishrags

Got dishrags that are starting to smell like last week’s fish dinner? No problem. Toss them into a bucket of warm water mixed with a good scoop of baking soda. If the smell is particularly stubborn, add a splash of vinegar.

This combo knocks out odors and leaves your rags ready for another round of cleaning. It’s like a spa day for your kitchen essentials!

Remove Gross Odors From Your Hands

After dicing onions or mincing garlic, that lingering smell on your hands can be tough to shake. Here’s a quick fix: mix a bit of baking soda with water to form a paste. Rub it all over your hands and into those tricky spots like cuticles.

Rinse off as usual, and your hands will smell fresh again, ready for the next task without carrying yesterday’s garlic.

Clean Your Coffeemaker

Keep your coffeemaker running smoothly and your coffee tasting great by descaling it periodically. Just mix a few spoonfuls of baking soda with water and run it through a brewing cycle. This simple routine breaks down the buildup inside the machine. Follow up with a cycle of plain water to rinse any residue, ensuring your next pot is as fresh as the first.

Erase Crayon Marks

Did your little artists decide the living room wall was their next big canvas? No sweat. Whip up a simple 50/50 paste of baking soda and water, and apply it to the crayon marks. Gently scrub with a rag and a bit of elbow grease, and watch the colors fade away. It’s safe for your walls and won’t strip the paint. Just lay down a towel to catch any drips, keeping cleanup just as easy.

Refresh Plastic Food Containers

Don’t give up on those tomato-stained plastic containers just yet. Create a paste with equal parts baking soda and water, smear it inside the container, and let it work its magic for about 24 hours.

When you come back, a quick swipe with a wet sponge will have them looking as good as new. This trick is a great way to save your containers from the landfill and keep your kitchen sustainable.

Deodorize Your Trash Can

Keeping your trash can smelling fresh is easier than you might think. Just a light sprinkle of baking soda at the bottom once a week can make a huge difference. It’s amazing at absorbing the gross odors that can build up over time. This easy tip ensures that when you lift the lid, you’re not hit by the smell of last week’s dinner.

Clean Your Stovetop

Revive your stovetop’s shine with nothing more than some baking soda. Sprinkle it generously over the grime and let it sit for about five minutes to loosen up the grease and food particles. Then, with a damp sponge, gently scrub the surface—no need for crazy scrubbing.

Finish by wiping it clean with a soft cloth. This method avoids harsh chemicals and keeps your kitchen smelling and looking fresh.