4 New Ways to Use Baking Soda

Baking Soda.... not just for baking.  

I love the idea of cutting out unnecessary pollutants and chemicals as much as I can.  I started reading about natural ways of cleaning, household-care, and even personal care when I came across the very versatile uses of Baking Soda.  Baking Soda can do SO many things.   There is an entire science behind Baking Soda BUT to sum up.... it has a neutralizing effect because it naturally balances the pH of a substance, and also buffers changes in the pH.  The neutralizing and buffering allows it to do things like neutralize odors, and balance the pH in laundry water to boost detergent.  Now, I am no scientist, (but I did get an A in all my chemistry classes!) I don't know if I can do a great job explaining the science behind Baking Soda, all I know is that it works! Here are 4 new ways to use Baking Soda. 

1.

Deodorize... basically everything

You can sprinkle baking soda on your couch, carpet, mattress, etc.  Let sit for at least 15-20 minutes then vacuum up.  You can also sprinkle some in workout shoes, gym bags, or car floors. The great thing about baking soda is that it removes the smell without replacing or concealing it with another smell... it just removes the odor.  Open a box of baking soda and place it in your refrigerator to neutralize odors without effecting the food.  

2.

Freshen Up

Add a bit of Baking Soda to a small amount of water and use as a mouth wash.  

3.

Clean Veggies

You can add Baking Soda to a bowl of water and wash vegetables in the water.  Then rinse.  

OR

 You can use it as a scrub by sprinkling a damp towel with Baking Soda, scrub veggies with it, then rinsing in water. 

4. Boost Your Detergent

Add a large handful of Baking Soda to a load of wash.  This balances the pH in the water and helps make your laundry even fresher. 

...Then use the rest for baking!...