The Many Uses of
Baking Soda
By Nikki Willhite
www.allthingsfrugal.com
Baking Soda is one of the most versatile
items we can stock in our pantry.
Everyone needs baking soda in their
cupboard just for baking purposes. Most recipes call for either yeast, baking
powder, and/or baking soda.
Most people know that baking soda absorbs
odors and most of us have a box of it in our refrigerator. You can go beyond
that with its freshening capabilities. You can also use it to clean and freshen
your countertops, microwave, and cutting boards. Just mix it with a little water
to make a paste, and wipe the surfaces fresh.
Mix with water to make a paste that works
as good as scouring powder.
Place in chests (such as coolers and lunch
pails) to absorb odors.
Also, don't forget the can opener and the
telephone. Lots of germs collect in these places, yet they are usually
overlooked.
Use it in your laundry to remove odors.
Use ¼ to ½ Cup with each load.
You can keep your sinks smelling fresh by
putting a few Tablespoons of baking soda down them, and then running the hot
water. Baking soda can even unclog a slow running sink, especially when you add
a little vinegar and plenty of hot water. It's good preventative maintenance to
do this with regularity.
Baking Soda is great to have on hand not
only for cleaning and freshening, but also for personal hygiene. You can brush
your teeth with it. You can give yourself a facial scrub by mixing it 3 to 1
with water. You can also add it to your shampoo, and it will remove built up
residue in your hair from shampoos and conditioners.
Here is a formula for a great nasal spray:
-
1/4 Cup Water
1/4 t. Salt
1/4 t. Baking soda.
I'm sure there are many other uses for
baking soda that are not listed here. I'd say that baking soda more than exceeds
the Rule of 3. (Click
Here for that explanation).