Baking Soda Uses

Baking soda is one of those products that no household can do without. From cooking to cleaning to removing odors, it has a countless number of uses that make it the most important ammunition in any homemaker’s armory. The most familiar use of baking soda is, of course, in creating that fluffy and soft texture in baked items. Baking soda is a salt and its taste is a bit alkaline and salty. This powder when interacts with an acid and a liquid releases carbon dioxide. Due to this chemical reaction, baking soda makes the dough rise and softens the texture of the bread. It is also for the same reason that it helps in neutralizing acids. As such, when acidity troubles you, baking soda is the perfect antidote. Likewise, baking soda has been an integral part of household remedies. Since it is a component of the mineral natron, the ancient Egyptians were wise to use this mineral as soap. The medicinal benefits of mineral springs are also partly due to baking soda, which can be found dissolved in them. So, it can be very useful to know in how many ways one can use baking soda. Read the article given below to find out more.

Uses Of Baking Soda

Personal Use

Baking soda can act as an excellent deodorant. Apply the powder in the underarms and it will keep the sweat odor at bay. Even strong odors from the body, especially the hands, can be removed with the help of baking soda.
It can also be used as toothpaste. Mix half a teaspoon of baking soda with an equal amount of peroxide paste and use it to brush the teeth. Gargling with water mixed with half a teaspoon of baking soda can refresh the mouth and also relief canker sore pain.
It can provide excellent relief against acidity. Those suffering from heartburn can get relief if they take in a glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of baking soda.
Bathe with a cup of baking soda added to your bathwater and it will help in softening the skin. It can also be used to scrub the face and body. This will also provide relief against any skin irritations.
Itchiness of the skin and pain resulting from insect bites or sunburn can be relieved by adding baking soda to the affected areas. It is also a good way to relieve diaper rash in babies.

Home Use

Adding a teaspoon of baking soda to the water in the vase can keep cut flowers fresh for a longer duration.
It is a very good fire extinguisher. Small fires, especially in clothes, rugs and upholstery can be doused off with baking soda.
Odors in the refrigerator can be eliminated by keeping baking soda in an open bowl inside. It can also keep ashtrays, footwear, and socks odor free when sprinkled with baking soda.
Wiping the windshield of your vehicle with baking soda will help in repelling the rain.
Baking soda can also be used as an air freshener. Simply mix baking soda with perfumed bath salts and put this mixture in small sachet bags. Now hang these bags in the room.
Cleaning brushes, whose bristles have become stiff, can be softened when they are boiled in half a gallon of water mixed with ¼ cup of vinegar and one cup of baking soda.
Sprinkle generous amounts of baking soda in all those places that are prone to insects. This will help in repelling the insects, especially ants and cockroaches.
Clean the toilet by adding a cup of baking soda in the bowl. Leave it for approximately an hour and then flush. The toilet will be clean and odorless. Baking soda can also be used to scrub sinks, showers and porcelain tiles. Walls, countertops and mirrors can be cleaned by sprinkling some baking soda over them and then rinsing it off.

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