Baking Soda: The Super Component and six ways to use it

1. Baking and Cooking

Baking soda is a staple in baking, acting as a leavening agent that helps cakes, cookies, and breads rise. It reacts with acidic ingredients like buttermilk, yogurt, or lemon juice, producing carbon dioxide bubbles that create the airy texture we love. It’s also used to neutralize strong flavors in recipes, like those found in coffee or chocolate.

2. Cleaning and Deodorizing

Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can be used to scrub surfaces, remove stains, and deodorize. It’s effective at removing grease, grime, and odors from countertops, sinks, tubs, and ovens. Simply sprinkle baking soda on the surface, scrub with a damp cloth, and rinse. It can also be used to freshen carpets and upholstery by sprinkling it on, letting it sit, and then vacuuming it up.

3. Personal Care

Baking soda can be used for a variety of personal care purposes, including as a natural toothpaste, deodorant, and exfoliating agent. For teeth, it can help whiten and brighten them, but use it sparingly as it can be abrasive. As a deodorant, it can neutralize odor-causing bacteria. For exfoliation, mix baking soda with water or oil to create a gentle scrub for your face or body.

4. Odor Removal

Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. It can be used to neutralize unpleasant smells in the refrigerator, garbage disposal, or even your car. Simply place an open box of baking soda in the desired area to absorb odors. It can also be used to deodorize laundry by adding a cup to the washing machine.

5. Pest Control

Baking soda can be used to deter certain pests like ants, cockroaches, and slugs. Sprinkle baking soda around areas where you see pests, or mix it with water and spray it on plants to deter slugs. It’s important to note that this method may not be effective for all pests.

6. Gardening

Baking soda can be used to adjust the pH of soil, making it less acidic. This can be beneficial for plants that prefer alkaline soil. It can also be used as a natural fungicide and insecticide, although it’s not as effective as commercial products.