Baking soda, the common name for sodium bicarbonate, is generally used in baking, as you might have guessed. At least, it historically has been for that purpose, thanks to its leavening properties, which cause the dough to rise by providing carbon dioxide, giving most breads or baked goods that fluffy look and taste we all love.
Although, you probably have seen baking soda used for other things as well, like keeping the refrigerator smelling fresh and maybe even brushing your teeth. So we’re here to tell you just how many uses you can get out of that baking soda in your pantry!
Here are six surprising uses and hacks of using baking soda:
1. FRESHEN YOUR MOUTH
If you’re a mouthwash user, then you probably heard that you could use baking soda to freshen up your mouth. Using it as mouthwash is quick and simple. All you have to do is mix one teaspoon of baking soda with half a glass of water. Then gargle and swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit and rinse.
2. GET SILKY SKIN AND FEEL REFRESHED
Using baking soda for your skin might seem risky, but when you’re going to take a bath, adding baking soda to your shower routine will give you silky skin and leave you feeling revitalized. For example: While running your bath water, you should add ½ cup of baking soda and let it dissolve. Now, sink into your relaxing bathtub and let the fantastic powers of baking soda help you feel renewed. Be careful with your hair though, because if you suffer from dry scalp, baking soda might make the condition worse. It’s best to just let your oily skin come into contact with the bath.
3. UNDERARM REFRESH
Sifting a bit of baking soda on your armpits will eliminate odor. If you’re in a rush, carry some baking soda and a few cotton balls in your backpack or purse. This tip is handy for traveling, especially abroad. If you don’t have access to a bathroom, use this little trick to kill odors and feel fresh.
4. CLEANING BRUSHES AND COMBS
For lustrous hair with more shine, it’s essential to keep your brushes and combs clean. Soak your combs in one teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in a small basin of warm water to remove oil build-up and hair product residue. Leave it for at least an hour then rinse and let air dry before using. We recommend cleaning your combs and brushes every other month. You can also try this same technique for cleaning your makeup brushes!
5. GENTLE HAND CLEANER
When you’re washing your hands, you can skip the harsh, chemical hand cleaners after doing automotive repairs or gardening. Create a paste using three tablespoons of baking soda mixed with one tablespoon of water. Stir thoroughly and use as many paste hand cleaner you’d like. Not only will your hands get pretty clean, but your skin will thank you for not using harsh toxins.
6. DEEP-CLEAN EXTRA GREASY DISHES AND PANS
These six baking soda tips will leave you feeling, looking, and smelling clean and fresh. Remember to limit your baking soda uses for skin and hair, or avoid it completely on the latter, You’ll be happy you spent just pennies on all these personal care ideas instead of paying a boatload on expensive, chemical-filled products. Baking soda is amazing. To make your home refreshed, you can hire a professional house cleaning service that uses eco-friendly products.
