10 Things You Should Absolutely Never Clean With Baking Soda -From Someone Who Learned the Hard Way

Baking soda has always been my go-to for just about every cleaning job you can imagine. It’s natural, safe, and supposed to be a bit of a miracle worker, right? Well, as a mom of little ones, I’m all about using clean and simple solutions in our home.

However, I’ve learned through trial and error that baking soda isn’t the superhero I once thought it was for every cleaning job. In fact, there are some things around the house that really suffer when faced with this powdery white substance.

From ruining the delicate surfaces of my kitchen to making a mess of my electronics, I’ve had my fair share of “oops” moments. So, I want to share 10 things you should definitely think twice about before cleaning with baking soda.

Ceramic Stovetop/Oven

While baking soda does wonders on many surfaces, it’s too abrasive for the delicate ceramic glass of a stovetop. It can scratch the surface and leave a stubborn white film that’s a nightmare to remove. And when it comes to your oven door, the same rules apply—baking soda is not your friend here.

I’ve found that a mix of lemon juice or white vinegar followed by a wipe with a dry cloth keeps things clean and scratch-free, maintaining that pristine look.

Items with Deep Grooves or Cracks

When you’re dealing with items that have intricate details or deep grooves, like keyboards or cane furniture, baking soda might not be the best cleaning agent. It tends to leave a white, dusty residue that’s hard to get out of those nooks and crannies.

A microfiber cloth, on the other hand, can reach into those tight spaces and pick up dust without leaving anything behind. For electronics like keyboards, sticking to proper cleaning techniques with minimal moisture is key to maintaining functionality without the mess.

Cast Iron

Navigating the care for cast iron can be tricky. While it’s tempting to reach for baking soda, especially when you’re facing some stubborn messes, it’s not the best choice for cast iron.

Baking soda can strip off the seasoning that makes your cast iron skillet a non-stick wonder. Instead, a bit of salt and some lemon work wonders and are much gentler on your cookware.

Sure, baking soda can come to the rescue for tackling rust, but remember, you’ll need to re-season your pan afterwards to restore its glory.

Clogged Drains with Aluminum Pipes

Here’s a little heads-up if you’re dealing with clogged drains, especially with aluminum pipes involved. While baking soda is a go-to for clearing up blockages, combining it with vinegar in aluminum plumbing can be risky. This duo can react negatively with aluminum, potentially causing more problems than it solves.

I’ve found it’s best to check the material of your pipes before going in with the baking soda and vinegar approach. For aluminum, steer clear of harsh reactions and perhaps consider a plumber-approved drain cleaner that’s safe for your specific plumbing type.

Aluminum Cookware

I’ve had my share of cleaning mishaps, and aluminum cookware is definitely on that list. While baking soda is a cleaning champ for many things, it’s not the best choice for aluminum pots and pans.

Here’s why: baking soda can react with aluminum, leading to some unsightly discoloration that’s tough to fix. It can turn your shiny pans dull and patchy, which, trust me, you don’t want. I’ve found that sticking to a gentle dish soap and avoiding harsh abrasives keeps my aluminum cookware in better condition.

Stone Countertops

As for those beautiful stone countertops—whether granite, marble, or quartz—they need gentle care. Baking soda might seem like a safe bet, but it can actually be too harsh for these surfaces. It’s capable of scratching and dulling the polished finish, especially on softer stones like marble.

What works on one surface in the home doesn’t always work for another. It’s best to use a cleaner specifically formulated for stone to keep your countertops looking pristine and scratch-free. Always double-check with your countertop’s manufacturer for the best cleaning practices to avoid any permanent oops moments.

Copper Cookware

Oh, copper cookware! It’s got that gorgeous glow when it’s all polished up, doesn’t it? But baking soda can be a bit too rough on those lovely copper pots and pans. I learned this the hard way.

While it’s tempting to use this go-to cleaner for a quick shine, baking soda can actually cause copper to tarnish much faster. This leads to a splotchy, discolored appearance that’s tough to reverse. For keeping that smooth, even sheen, it’s best to stick to products designed for copper.

Leather Furniture and Clothing

Leather thrives on its natural oils to stay soft and supple. When I tried using baking soda on my favorite armchair, it stripped away those essential oils, leading to dry, cracked leather. Not a good look or feel!

The same goes for any leather item, from your go-to winter boots to that stylish belt. Instead, opt for a leather conditioner that cleans while keeping the leather nourished. Your pieces will thank you by lasting longer and maintaining their comfy, classy vibe.

Mirrors and Windows

When it comes to glass surfaces, baking soda might be too much of a good thing. Its abrasive nature, while awesome for stubborn kitchen grime, can actually scratch the delicate surfaces of mirrors and windows.

And trust me, those tiny scratches build up, leaving your shiny surfaces looking dull and worn. Stick to a specialized glass cleaner or even just vinegar and water for a streak-free shine that preserves the smoothness.

Gold Plate

Gold plating is super finicky and much thinner than you might imagine. While reaching for baking soda seems like a harmless quick fix, it can scratch and strip away the delicate gold layer. Imagine the heartbreak of ruining a family heirloom or a favorite decorative piece!

I’ve learned it’s safer to use mild dish soap and a soft cloth. This gentle approach keeps your gold shining without the risk of damage, ensuring your items continue to dazzle at your dinner parties.