52 Baking Soda Uses For Cleaning

Do you know about all of the amazing things that baking soda can do? This miracle powder is not just for baking!

In fact, it has a ton of uses for cleaning. From getting rid of tough stains and odors in the laundry room to freshening your breath, baking soda can do it all!

Keep reading to learn more about this versatile ingredient and all of the ways you can use it around your home.

52 Ways to Clean Your Home With Baking Soda

If you want to start using baking soda for cleaning, here are more than a few ways you can get started:

1. Easy Stovetop Cleaning

Stovetops can be a pain to clean, but baking soda makes it easy! If your stovetop is in need of a good cleaning, baking soda can help!

Just make a paste of baking soda and water, and use a sponge to scrub the top. The baking soda will help to remove any tough stains or grease buildup.

Tip: For any tough areas, let the paste soak for 5 to 10 minutes for easier cleanup with less scrubbing.

2. Wash Your Produce

Do you ever wonder if the produce in your fridge is clean? Chances are that some dirt and bacteria have accumulated on it on its way to your home.

But don’t worry – baking soda to the rescue! Make a mixture of water, lemon, and baking soda Then soak your fruits and veggies in the solution for about five minutes. Rinse them off and you’re good to go!

Baking soda is also great for getting rid of pesticides on produce. Just mix baking soda with water, and spray the solution onto your fruits or veggies. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse off.

3. Polish Your Silverware

If you have any tarnished silverware, baking soda is the way to go. Make a paste of water and baking soda, then dip your silverware in for about five minutes.

After that, use a soft cloth or damp sponge to wipe down the utensils. They should be as good as new!

If you’re in a hurry and can’t do each piece at once, try putting your silverware into a pot filled with boiling water and baking soda.

Let it simmer for about five minutes before removing it from the heat. Wipe it down with a soft cloth and you’re good to go.

Tip: Add a little lemon juice to the paste. The acidity of the lemon will help to remove any tarnish more effectively than water alone.

4. Get Stains Out of Your Plasticware

If you have any plasticware that has stubborn stains, baking soda is the perfect solution. Just make a paste of water and baking soda.

Use 4 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 quart of warm or slightly hot water. Then rub it on your stained containers.

Let the baking soda sit for about five minutes before rinsing off with warm water. Any tough stains should be gone!

5. Deodorize Your Fridge

If you notice a funky smell in your fridge, sodium bicarbonate can help. Just sprinkle some baking soda into a small open container and place it in the back of your fridge.

You can also open and place the whole container inside. The baking soda will help to absorb any bad smells and freshen up your fridge.

Replace the baking soda as often as needed. Many containers have a blank spot where you can write down the date that you last put new baking soda in the fridge.

6. Sprinkle Baking Soda in Your Trash Can

If your trash can doesn’t smell too great, baking soda is here to help. Sprinkle a layer of baking soda in the bottom of your trash can before putting in a new bag.

The baking soda will help to absorb any bad smells and keep your trash can smelling fresh. Replace the baking soda at least once a month so that it can keep your trashcan fresh.

Just keep in mind you’ll need to use something a little stronger if you’re dealing with maggots in the trash can.

7. Clean Your Hair Brush

Baking soda can also be used to clean your hairbrush. Just make a paste of baking soda and water, then scrub it into the bristles of your brush. Rinse off with warm water and allow to air dry.

You can also clean a toothbrush with baking soda as well! Simply place your toothbrush’s head in a cup full of one part baking soda to one part water. Thoroughly rinse the toothbrush the next morning.

8. Clear a Drainage Block in Your Sink

Pour half a cup of baking soda and two cups of white vinegar into the sink. Observe the eruption of froth caused by the alkaline in the bicarb reacting with the acid in the vinegar.

Allow it to settle, and it should help dissolve any dirt.

You can also mix 1 cup of baking soda with 2 cups of washing powder (great for de-greasing) and then follow with vinegar. Pour boiling water down the drain to finish.

9. Sprinkle a Little Baking Soda on the Carpet

If your carpet is starting to smell a little funky, baking soda can clear that up. Just sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours.

The baking soda will absorb any bad smells and leave your carpet smelling fresh.

Be sure to vacuum up the baking soda after it has had a chance to work its magic. Do this once a week for best results and reduced odors.

10. Clean Your Pots and Pans

Baking soda is also great for cleaning your pots and pans. Just add some water to the pan, then sprinkle on a layer of baking soda.

Let it sit for about 30 minutes before washing as usual with warm soapy water.

The baking soda will help to remove any stuck-on grime or grease. It’s also great for deodorizing your pots and pans if they have a smoky smell!

11. Clean Your Teeth

Toothpaste is something that can get expensive, but baking soda works just as well as toothpaste. Just wet your toothbrush and then dip it into some baking soda.

Rub the bristles around your teeth for about two minutes, then spit out the baking soda. Rinse with water and you’re done!

You can also make a homemade toothpaste by mixing together ½ teaspoon of baking soda and ¼ cup of water. Add a few drops of peppermint oil for a refreshing taste.

12. Freshen Up Your Mattress

If your mattress is starting to smell a little funky, it’s time to treat it. Just sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours.

The baking soda will absorb any bad smells and leave your mattress smelling fresh.

Be sure to vacuum up the baking soda after it has had a chance to work its magic. Do this once a week for best results and reduced odors.

13. Clean Your Kitchen Sponges

Baking soda can also be used to clean your kitchen sponges! Simply add some water, then sprinkle on a layer of baking soda.

Let it sit for about 30 minutes before washing as usual with warm soapy water.

Baking soda is great for deodorizing your kitchen sponges if they are taking on the smell of food or developing a moldy scent.

14. Consider Sprinkling Baking Soda on Your Dog!

If your dog is starting to smell a little funky, baking soda can help! Add baking soda to your dog’s regular shampoo to create a paste.

Massage it into your dog’s fur and let sit for a few minutes before rinsing off.

You can also sprinkle baking soda mixed with water on the areas that are particularly stinky to help absorb some of the bad odor.

15. Keep Your Toilet Fresh

If you want to keep your toilet bowl fresh, sprinkle some baking soda into the bowl and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Then scrub with a toilet brush and flush to rinse away all traces of dirt, grime, or stains on the inside surface!

You can also add a few drops of essential oils like lavender oil (my personal favorite) or eucalyptus oil for an extra fresh fragrance.

Related: How to Unclog a Toilet With Poop in It?

16. Clean Your Dishwasher

Adding a little baking soda to your dishwasher can help keep it clean! Just add ½ cup of baking soda to the bottom of the machine and run a normal cycle.

This will help remove any built-up dirt, grease, or food particles from inside the dishwasher.

It’s also a good idea to wipe down the outside of your dishwasher every few months with a damp rag to remove any built-up dirt or grease.

17. Remove Red Wine Stains

If you have a red wine stain on your carpet, the stain can be serious if not treated right away.

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area and rub it into the stain with a small amount of water.

Let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then wipe, blot, and vacuum up all traces of the powder before applying cold water to blot out any remaining color from the spot.

You can also add a few drops of white vinegar to the baking soda before vacuuming up any remaining stain residue.

18. Clean Your Ironing Board

If you have an ironing board that is starting to smell a little funky, baking soda can remove that odor. Sprinkle some baking soda over your iron and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Then vacuum up any remaining powder before applying cold water to blot out any remaining color from the spot.

19. Clean Your Shower Curtain Liner

If your shower curtain liner is starting to get a little discolored, baking can make it bright and white again.

Sprinkle some baking soda over the affected area and rub it into the stain with a small amount of water.

Let it sit for about 30 minutes before wiping it down with cold water or using an old toothbrush dipped in a vinegar solution (white vinegar and water) to scrub the fabric.

20. Reduce Itchiness From Bug Bites

If you have a bug bite that is starting to get very itchy, baking soda can calm the area down. Just add some baking soda and water into a small bowl.

Stir until dissolved then apply directly on top of the affected area (or soak your feet in this solution if they are particularly itchy).

This is also a great remedy for bug bites, poison ivy, or poison oak!

21. Take a Baking Soda Bath

Did you know that using baking soda in your bath can help soothe sensitive or itchy skin? Just add ½ cup of baking soda to a hot bath and soak for about 20 minutes.

The baking soda will help absorb any oils or sweat on your skin, while also helping to neutralize any acids that may be causing the itchiness.

22. Clean Your Cast Iron Skillet

If you have a cast-iron skillet that is starting to get rusty, baking is a safe substance that won’t react with the iron. Just add some baking soda and water into a small bowl.

Take a steel wool pad and scrub the surface of the skillet with the mixture until all of the rust is gone. Rinse with cold water and dry completely before using.

23. Remove Coffee and Tea Stains From Cups

If you have coffee or tea stains on your cups, baking soda can help! Just add some baking soda and water into a small bowl and stir until dissolved.

Then apply directly to the stain with an old toothbrush or cotton ball soaked in this solution for about 20 minutes before wiping clean off of your mug!

24. Clean Your Coffee Pot

If you have a coffee pot that is starting to get discolored, it can be tough to get those stains out with just soap and water.

But baking soda works! Just add some baking soda and water into a small bowl. Use a sponge to scrub the pot with this mixture until all of the discolorations are gone. Rinse with cold water and dry completely before using.

25. Put a Box of Baking Soda in a Closet to Keep it Fresh

If you have a closet that smells a little musty, this simple solution will work. Just put a box of baking soda in the back of your closet to keep the air smelling fresh.

The baking soda will also absorb any moisture in the air and prevent any mold from growing.

26. Deodorize Your Shoes

If you have some stinky shoes, use this quick tip to revive and freshen them.

Just pour a small amount of baking soda into the bottom of each shoe and let it sit overnight before removing in the morning.

The baking soda will absorb all odors from your shoes to leave them smelling fresh again.

27. Get Rid of Oil Stains On Your Clothes

If you have an oil stain on your clothes, it can be hard to get it out with just soap and water. Add some baking soda and water into a small bowl.

Stir until dissolved then apply directly to the affected area. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before laundering as normal. The baking soda will help absorb the oils from the fabric and remove the stain.

28. Clean Your Grill

If your grill is starting to get dirty, you’ll need something that can handle a lot of grease. Just add some baking soda and water to a small bowl.

Use a sponge to scrub the grill with this mixture until it is clean. Rinse with cold water and dry completely before using.

29. Clean Your Car Battery

Since baking soda is an alkaline substance, it will work as a neutralizer if you have acidic corrosion on your car battery.

First, make sure to disconnect your battery terminals. Then create a mixture of 1 part water and 3 parts sodium bicarbonate. Use a damp cloth to remove the corrosion by lightly scrubbing the battery.

30. De-Ice Walkways and Steps

If you have a frozen walkway or steps, baking soda can help! Just pour a liberal amount of baking soda over the ice and let it sit for about 15 minutes. The baking soda will help to melt the ice and de-ice your walkway.

31. Repel Bugs

If you are having a problem with bugs, you can use baking soda to create a barrier at your doorways. Sprinkle a small thin line across each doorway.

32. Get Rid of Ants

Use baking soda as bait for ants in your home. Just mix equal parts baking soda and sugar, then place the mixture into a small dish where the ants are congregating. The sugar will attract the ants while the baking soda will kill them.

33. Clean Your Microwave

If you have a microwave that is starting to get dirty, this substance will help loosen stains and grime. Just add some baking soda and water into a small bowl then microwave on high for about two minutes.

The steam from the hot water will help loosen any food particles or grease build-up inside of the microwave. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

34. Use As a Litter Box Deodorizer

If you have a litter box that smells bad, just pour a small amount of baking soda into the bottom of the litter box and let it sit overnight before removing it in the morning.

The baking soda will absorb all odors from your litter box to leave it smelling fresh again.

35. Clean Children’s Toys With Baking Soda

If your children’s toys are starting to get dirty, baking soda is a safe and easy way to restore them.

Just add some baking soda and water into a small bowl, then scrub the toy with this mixture until it is clean. Rinse with cold water and dry completely before using.

36. Remove Chlorine From Your Hair

If you have been swimming in a chlorinated pool, you’ll want to get those chemicals out of your hair asap. Just add a tablespoon of baking soda to your shampoo and lather as normal.

The baking soda will help remove any chlorine from your hair and leave it smelling fresh.

37. Make a Spray to Clean Your Kitchen Sink

If you have a kitchen sink that is starting to get dirty, it’s time to clean it to avoid tougher buildup. Just add some baking soda and water into a small bowl then transfer it to an empty spray bottle.

Spray the mixture directly onto your sink and let sit for about 30 minutes before scrubbing with a sponge until clean. Rinse with cold water and

38. Add Baking Soda to Your Laundry to Help Remove Odors

If you have clothes that smell bad, this substance makes a perfectly natural solution that won’t irritate the skin as other chemicals may.

Just add a tablespoon of baking soda to your laundry detergent and launder as normal.

The baking soda will help remove any odors from your clothes. It will also help to brighten your whites as well as help to remove tough stains.

39. Clean Your Washing Machine

Just add a cup of baking soda to the detergent compartment and run your washing machine on a hot cycle.

The baking soda will help to dissolve any build-up that has accumulated inside of your washer over time.

40. Clean Your Tub and Shower

If your tub and shower are starting to get dirty, this is a perfect solution without any toxic fumes in small spaces. Just create a paste that you can use with a brush or sponge to clean.

Let the paste sit for about 15 minutes before scrubbing with a brush or sponge. Rinse with cold water when finished.

41. Clean Your Grout

If your grout is starting to get dirty, it’s time to freshen it up before mold and mildew stains settle in. Just create a paste with baking soda and water.

Apply the mixture to your grout then let it sit for between 20 to 30 minutes before scrubbing with a brush or sponge. Rinse with cold water when finished.

42. Clean Your Car

If you have car seats that smell bad, this is a perfect solution. Sprinkle some baking soda onto the seats then let it sit for about 30 minutes before vacuuming up.

The baking soda will help to absorb any bad odors and leave your car smelling fresh again.

43. Descale Your Kettle

After several uses, your stovetop kettle will build up with limescale and need to be descaled. Add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda in the kennel, let it sit for 5 minutes, and then rise it out.

You can also boil water in the kennel with several scoops of baking soda to help remove tougher deposits.

44. Return Shine to Your Ornaments

If your ornaments have lost their shine over time, baking soda can help to return them to their original state. Just add a tablespoon of baking soda to a small bowl, then add warm water.

Soak the ornament in this mixture for about 15 minutes then scrub with a toothbrush.

If the ornament is delicate or very old, you may want to wipe the mixture onto the ornament gently rather than soaking it. Be careful with your heirlooms!

45. Make a DIY Febreeze

Making your own Febreeze isn’t only cheaper, it’s better for you and your home.

Start by filling a spray bottle with 3/4 cup of hot water. Then add 4 tablespoons of baking soda. Shake it all together so that the soda dissolves.

Once the bottle is completely cool, add a couple of drops of any essential oil that you like. Shake everything together once last time, and it’s now ready to use!

46. Clean Your Jewelry

Baking soda is perfect for returning tarnished jewelry to its former glory without damaging it. Create a paste with 1 part warm water and 3 parts baking soda.

Use a rag or old toothbrush to apply it to the jewelry, letting it sit for about 20-30 minutes before rinsing and polishing with a clean cloth.

47. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Did you know that baking soda can also be used to clean your dog’s teeth? It’s a great way to help remove plaque and tartar from their teeth without harsh chemicals.

Brush the teeth for about two minutes and then give your dog plenty of water to rinse their mouths out as a reward for being such a good sport.

48. Get a Boost When Washing Very Greasy Dishes

If your dish soap isn’t cutting it when you’re trying to remove grease, sprinkle baking soda on the dishes for an extra boost.

This tip with a durable scrub sponge should help to dissolve that stubborn leftover grease.

49. Deodorize Your Pet Bedding

Ped bedding is famous for being some of the stinkiest furniture in your home. Baking soda is the perfect solution to this problem.

Just sprinkle it on the pet bedding and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming up.

50. Clean Your Pool Filter

If your pool filter isn’t working as well as it should, you may need to clean out any build-up of debris or grime inside of the filter itself.

You can do this by soaking it in warm water and baking soda. Let the filter soak for half an hour or so before rinsing with clear water.

51. Soften Bird Droppings

If you’ve got a car covered in bird droppings, baking soda can help you remove them.

Simply apply baking soda mixed with a little water directly onto the poop and let it sit for at least an hour. Then scrub off with a brush or wet sponge.

Here are some tips to keep birds from pooping on your car in the first place.

52. Get the Gasoline Smell Off Your Hands

Baking soda can also remove the smell of gasoline from your hands. First, place equal parts water and baking soda in a small bowl.

Then, soak your hands in the mixture for up to 30 minutes!

If you want a quicker solution, use the baking soda as a scrub and massage it into your hands for 2 to 3 minutes, and then rinse it off.

Read this for more ways to remove the smell of gasoline from your hands.

Baking Soda Home Cleaning FAQs

Can I Mix Baking Soda and Vinegar to Clean?

When you mix Vinegar and baking soda, it creates a fizzy reaction. While this mixture is great for unclogging drains, it isn’t as effective at cleaning as simply using vinegar or baking soda alone. It’s probably best to stick to one or the other for your cleaning needs.

Is Baking Soda Safe to Use?

Baking soda is perfectly safe to use around your home and body, even if you accidentally ingest a small amount of it while cleaning with it. Because of its natural and gentle properties, it is a great choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Does Baking Soda Expire?

Baking soda usually has an expiration date of two to three years. The expiration date is stamped on the box, so you should be able to tell how old your baking soda is by checking there.

If you don’t have the box anymore or can’t find the stamp, just smell it! Baking soda that’s gone bad will have a very strong and unpleasant odor since it has absorbed scents in the air.

You can keep yours fresher for longer by storing it in an airtight container with a tight lid and not letting it come into contact with moisture.

Is Baking Soda Safe to Use on Painted Surfaces?

Yes! It is safe to use baking soda on painted surfaces, as long as you don’t scrub too hard or leave the paste sitting there for an extended period of time. Rinse the area well with water when you’re finished cleaning.

What is the Difference Between Baking Soda and Washing Soda?

The main difference between baking soda and washing soda is that washing soda is stronger and can be used for tougher jobs like cleaning ovens or removing grease build-up.

If you only have baking soda on hand, it’s still effective for most household cleaning tasks, but

Does Baking Soda Whiten Teeth?

Baking soda is not a teeth whitening agent, but it can help to remove plaque and stains from the surface of your teeth.

When used regularly, it may help to brighten your smile over time. Many people mix it with a small amount of coconut oil or water to create a paste. It also helps to improve your breath as well!

Can I Mix Baking Soda With My Toothpaste?

Yes, you can mix baking soda with your toothpaste. Baking Soda and Toothpaste will work together to help remove plaque and stains from the surface of your teeth.

It also helps to improve your breath as well! If you only have a small amount of toothpaste left in its tube, try adding some baking soda so that it

Is Baking Soda Good for Skin?

Baking Soda is good for the skin because it has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and reduce swelling in irritated areas.

You can also use baking soda as an exfoliant by mixing it with water or coconut oil into a paste that you rub onto your face gently before rinsing off.

Is Baking Soda Good for Hair?

Baking soda can also be used as a hair shampoo. It is gentle enough to use every day and can help to remove buildup from your scalp and hair.

Just mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of water, pour it over your head, and massage your scalp. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off. You may need to repeat this a few times to get all the build-up out.

Can I Use Baking Soda as a Deodorant?

Yes, you can use baking soda as a deodorant by mixing it with water or coconut oil into a paste and applying it under your arms. It will help to absorb sweat and neutralize odor. Be sure to rinse off well when you’re done.

Can I Use Baking Soda as an Antacid?

Yes, baking soda can be used as an antacid because it is alkaline and can help to neutralize stomach acid.

If you are experiencing heartburn or indigestion, try taking a teaspoon of baking soda in eight ounces (250 ml) of water before meals to help prevent these symptoms from occurring.

Why Does Baking Soda Fizz?

Baking soda fizzes because when it comes into contact with an acid, the chemical reaction creates carbon dioxide gas bubbles.

The fizzing you see is actually bubbles of CO₂ forming and escaping from the solution! These reactions can be used for cooking or cleaning purposes.

What are Some Other Natural Ingredients That Work Well With Baking Soda?

Other natural ingredients that work well with baking soda include vinegar, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide.

Vinegar is a great cleaner for disinfecting surfaces and removing tough stains, while lemon juice can be used as a degreaser.

Hydrogen peroxide is effective at killing bacteria and can be used to clean cuts or scrapes.

Essential oils are also beneficial when mixed with baking soda, but be sure to choose ones that are safe for your skin type (i.e., no citrus oils on sensitive areas like lips and face).

Certain oils also have anti-fungal or antibacterial properties that can be helpful for cleaning. Some of my favorites are tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, baking soda has superpowers and is a perfect replacement for your commercial chemical cleaners.

Not only is it effective and affordable, but it is also environmentally friendly and safe for your whole family to use. So go ahead and stock up on this miracle powder – you’ll be glad you did!