Surprising Uses for Baking Soda You Never Knew Existed!

Chuvic - April 18, 2023

Baking soda is a household item that is primarily used for baking. However, it has an impressive list of alternative uses that many people may not be aware of. From cleaning surfaces to freshening up your pet’s bed, baking soda is one of the most versatile and affordable household tools. In fact, the numerous unusual and surprising ways that baking soda can be used might just blow your mind! In this article, we’ll explore some of the most fascinating and unexpected ways that baking soda can be used around your home. So, let’s get ready to learn some surprising new ways to put baking soda to work!

Extinguishing Grease Fires

Grease fires usually occur when cooking oily foods; they are hazardous unless extinguished quickly using the right method. Baking soda is an effective way to put out grease fires safely. Sprinkle generous amounts onto the flames, and watch them get smothered immediately. Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, works by coating the fire and smothering it effectively.

As the baking soda decomposes, it releases carbon dioxide, which displaces oxygen and suffocates the fire, allowing you to put it out safely. This method is especially good for oven fires, or those on stovetops since both involve oils that have caught fire.

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Deodorizing Shoes

Unpleasant odors coming from shoes can be bothersome, but the baking powder can be an effective solution to restore their original scent. By sprinkling the baking powder into each shoe, the powder can effectively absorb the bad smells within just a few hours of application.

After leaving the shoes alone for several hours, simply tap out the excess powder into a garbage bag, and the shoes should smell much better. This method is a quick and easy way to deodorize shoes without having to purchase expensive products. With just a small amount of baking powder, you can eliminate odors and keep your shoes smelling fresh.

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Removing Splinters

Baking soda can also be used to remove splinters, making it easier to extract them. Splinters can be painful and tricky to remove, especially if they are small or deep. However, a baking soda paste can help draw out the splinter and make it easier to see and remove. To use baking soda for this purpose, mix a small amount of baking soda with water to make a paste.

Apply the paste to the affected area and cover it with a bandage. Leave the paste on for several hours or overnight to allow it to work. The baking soda will help to reduce inflammation and draw the splinter to the surface of the skin. Once the splinter is visible, use tweezers to remove it gently.

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As a Natural Deodorant

If you’ve been searching for a natural alternative to commercial deodorants, baking soda is a great option. It works by neutralizing the odor-causing bacteria on your skin. You can simply mix a small amount with water to form a paste, apply it to your underarms, and rinse it off after a few minutes. Baking soda is gentle and safe for most people, although some may experience skin irritation. To avoid skin sensitivity, make sure to test a small amount on your skin before using it as a deodorant.

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Toothpaste and Mouthwash

Baking soda has excellent cleaning properties which makes it an ideal ingredient for effective oral hygiene products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Its alkaline nature helps to make your teeth whiter and brighter by removing surface stains caused by coffee, tea, and tobacco. You can make your own baking soda toothpaste by mixing baking soda with water to form a paste.

Alternatively, you can add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to give it a fresh flavor. To create a baking soda mouthwash, you can mix a teaspoon of baking soda with water and swish the solution in your mouth to get rid of bad breath and keep your teeth clean and healthy.

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Soothing Sunburns

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Baking soda can help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by sunburn by creating a cooling effect on the skin when mixed with cold water. To use baking soda for sunburn, mix a quarter cup of baking soda with enough water to make a paste.

Apply the mixture to the affected area and let it sit for several minutes before rinsing it off with cool water. Alternatively, you can mix a small amount of baking soda into a cool bath and soak in it for about 20 minutes. The baking soda will help to reduce inflammation and provide relief from the heat and pain of sunburn.

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Baking Soda for Insect Bites

When an insect bites you, it injects its saliva into your skin, which contains chemicals that can cause a reaction in your body. This reaction results in symptoms like itchiness, swelling, and redness. Baking soda works as an effective remedy for insect bites because of its alkaline nature, which helps to neutralize the acidic venom of the insect.

To use baking soda for insect bites, first, clean the affected area with soap and water to avoid any infection. Then, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply the paste directly to the bite and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The paste will help to reduce inflammation and itchiness.

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Exfoliate Skin

Baking soda is a versatile household item that can also be used as a natural and gentle exfoliant for the skin. Its fine granules work to slough off dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother and brighter. To use baking soda as an exfoliant, mix a small amount with water to create a paste. Gently apply the paste to your face in circular motions, being careful to avoid the delicate eye area.

Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel. For best results, use it once or twice a week. Baking soda is effective in exfoliating the skin because it is a mild alkaline substance that helps to break down the bonds between dead skin cells. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help to prevent acne and other skin conditions.

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Washing Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are vital to maintaining a healthy diet, but they may contain harmful chemicals and bacteria. Baking soda can be a natural and effective solution to clean them. To use baking soda, mix a teaspoon of it with a cup of water to make a solution.

Dip the produce in the solution for a few minutes, then use a soft brush to scrub them gently to remove any dirt, pesticides, or bacteria. Finally, rinse them with clean water and dry them before consuming them. Baking soda works by reacting with water to create an alkaline solution that helps break down dirt, bacteria, and chemicals, making them easier to remove.

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Cleaning the Microwave and Oven

Baking soda is a versatile cleaning agent that can help clean even the greasiest ovens and microwaves. Its natural cleaning properties make it a great alternative to harsh chemicals. To use baking soda for cleaning, mix baking soda, water, and dish soap to make a paste.

Apply the mixture to the greasy surface using a sponge or cloth and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub it off with a brush or sponge and rinse with water. Baking soda’s mild abrasive quality helps to break down grease and food residue, while its alkaline nature neutralizes acidic and foul odors. After cleaning, you’ll be left with a fresh-smelling and sparkling-clean appliance.

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Cleaning Carpets and Upholstery

Baking soda is a cheap and effective way to remove stains from carpets and upholstery. To tackle surface-level stains, make a paste by mixing baking soda with water and applying it to the stain. Leave it to dry before vacuuming it off. For tougher stains, mix baking soda with vinegar to create a powerful stain-removing solution.

Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub the area with a brush, and then blot with a clean cloth to remove the stain. Finally, rinse the area with water and blot it dry. This simple method is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to keep your carpets and upholstery looking clean and fresh.

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Removing Hair Product Buildup

If you feel like your hair is weighed down by styling products, try using baking soda. To remove the buildup caused by hair styling products, consider using baking soda. Simply mix a cup of water with a few tablespoons of baking soda to create a solution. Apply the solution to your hair, ensuring to massage it into your scalp and ends.

Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. The baking soda solution works by breaking down and removing any excess product buildup on your hair, leaving it feeling light, silky, and soft. This natural method is an effective way to maintain your hair’s health and cleanliness without the use of harsh chemicals.

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Cleaning Jewelry

Baking soda can be used to clean and polish tarnished jewelry due to its abrasive properties. It can help remove dirt, grime, and tarnish from the surface of the jewelry without causing any damage. When baking soda is mixed with water, it creates a mild alkaline solution, which makes it easier to remove the buildup of dirt and grime that can accumulate on jewelry over time.

To use baking soda to clean your jewelry, you can create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. The paste can then be applied onto your jewelry using a toothbrush or cloth, and gently rubbed in. The paste should be left to sit for a few minutes to allow the baking soda to work its magic before being rinsed off with warm water and dried with a clean cloth.

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Alleviating Canker Sores

Canker sores can be painful and difficult to get rid of, but baking soda can help alleviate their discomfort and speed up the healing process. To use baking soda for treating canker sores, mix one teaspoon of it with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste directly on the sore, and let it sit for a few minutes so that its anti-inflammatory properties kick in. The baking soda also helps to neutralize any acids present in the mouth and reduce inflammation, thus promoting healing of the affected area.

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Cleaning and Unclogging Drains

Baking soda is an effective cleaner for removing dirt and debris from drains, helping to prevent clogs and improve water flow. To use baking soda for this purpose, mix equal parts of vinegar and baking soda to create a fizzing solution. Pour the solution down the drain and let it sit for 15 minutes.

Then, flush it with hot water to break down any hard debris without causing damage to the pipes. This natural method avoids the use of harsh chemicals such as bleach that can be harmful to the environment and may cause damage to pipes over time. With the help of baking soda, you can easily and safely maintain the cleanliness and functionality of your drains.

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Cleaning Your Bathtub

Cleaning your bathtub can be a time-consuming and tedious task, but baking soda can make it easier and more efficient. By generously sprinkling baking soda on the surface of your bathtub, you can use its abrasive properties to effectively break down dirt particles and soap scum. Simply scrub the tub with a damp cloth or sponge after allowing the baking soda to sit for a few minutes. The result will be a sparkling clean bathtub that looks and feels fresh. Not only is this method effective, but it’s also a cost-effective and safe alternative to expensive cleaning chemicals.

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Deodorizing Your Refrigerator

Keeping your refrigerator smelling fresh can be a challenge, especially when dealing with food spillage or harmful bacteria. Happily, baking soda presents a simple and effective solution. To deodorize your fridge, place an open box of baking soda inside to absorb bad odors and prevent new ones from arising over time.

Baking soda is a naturally absorbent material that works by neutralizing and absorbing odors. Baking soda is made of sodium bicarbonate, a substance that neutralizes acids and bases, making it perfect for deodorizing refrigerators. As the odors from your fridge pass through the baking soda, the sodium bicarbonate molecules trap them, thereby eliminating the bad smells in your fridge.

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To Remove Tea Stains From Cups And Mugs

Removing tea stains from cups and mugs can be a challenging task, but baking soda offers an efficient solution. The acid-neutralizing properties of baking soda make it an effective cleaning agent for tea stains. To create a cleaning paste, mix a small amount of baking soda with warm water, and apply it to the stains using a sponge or cloth.

Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water. This process helps to break down the tannins in the tea stains, making them easier to remove. Once rinsed, the cups and mugs should appear clean and fresh. Using baking soda to remove tea stains is an easy and affordable way to keep your favorite cups and mugs looking pristine.

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Deodorize Pet Bedding And Litter Boxes

Baking soda is a natural and effective solution for deodorizing pet bedding and litter boxes. It works by neutralizing the acidic molecules that cause unpleasant odors. When you sprinkle baking soda onto the bedding or litter box, it absorbs the odor-causing molecules, leaving the area smelling fresh and clean.

The baking soda also has a dry texture that can help absorb moisture, which can further help control odors. Additionally, baking soda is safe for pets and non-toxic, making it a great alternative to harsh chemicals that may irritate your pets’ skin or respiratory system. With regular use, baking soda can help keep your pet’s bedding and litter box smelling fresh and clean.

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Deodorize Trash Cans

Trash cans can develop unpleasant odors over time, making your home smell unpleasant. Fortunately, baking soda can help eliminate these odors by neutralizing the acidic molecules that cause them. When you sprinkle baking soda into the bottom of your trash can before adding trash, it absorbs any odors and leaves your trash can smelling fresh. This is because baking soda has natural deodorizing properties that can neutralize and eliminate bad smells. With the help of baking soda, you can keep your trash can smelling fresh and clean, making your home a more pleasant place to be.

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Polish Silverware

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If you’re looking to polish your silverware, baking soda can be a great solution. Its gentle abrasive nature can remove tarnish without causing any scratches on the metal. When baking soda comes into contact with tarnished silverware, it creates a chemical reaction that breaks down the tarnish, making it easy to remove. To use baking soda, mix three parts of it with one part water to make a paste, then apply it to your silverware using a soft cloth and rub gently. Rinse the silverware with water and dry it off with a clean cloth. With the help of baking soda, your silverware will shine like new again.

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Remove Oil Stains From Concrete

Baking soda is an effective solution for removing stubborn oil stains from concrete due to its natural properties as a mild abrasive and a pH neutralizer. The abrasive quality of baking soda allows it to lift and break down the oily residue, while its pH-neutral nature helps to counteract the acidic properties of the oil, making it easier to clean.

To use baking soda to remove oil stains from concrete, first, remove any excess oil from the surface. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the affected area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Afterward, scrub the stain with a stiff brush and rinse with water. Repeat the process if necessary until the oil stain is completely removed.

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Remove Scuff Marks From Floors

Baking soda is not only an effective cleaner but also a gentle abrasive that can remove scuff marks from floors. The abrasive nature of baking soda helps to break down the scuff marks without damaging the floor’s surface. To remove scuff marks, start by cleaning the area with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Then, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the scuff mark and let it sit for a few minutes. Rub gently with a soft cloth, using circular motions, and rinse with water. Baking soda is a safe and eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.

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Erase Crayon Marks From Walls

Baking soda is a versatile household item that can be used to remove stubborn stains from various surfaces. One of its less-known uses is removing crayon marks from walls. Crayon marks can be particularly challenging to remove, especially without damaging the paint or wallpaper. However, baking soda can effectively remove these marks.

Baking soda works by acting as a gentle abrasive that can lift the crayon marks without scratching the wall surface. To use baking soda to remove crayon marks, mix it with water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the crayon mark and rub gently with a soft cloth. The baking soda will lift the crayon marks, leaving your walls looking clean and new. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth to complete the process.

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Deep Clean Combs and Hairbrushes

Over time, combs and brushes can accumulate oils, dead skin cells, and other debris from our hair and scalp, which can lead to a buildup of bacteria and a less effective styling tool. To clean your combs and brushes with baking soda, start by removing any hair from the bristles or teeth of the tool. Fill a bowl with warm water and add a tablespoon of baking soda.

Place your combs and brushes into the solution and allow them to soak for 20-30 minutes. This will help to break down any oils or debris on the tool. After soaking, use a clean toothbrush to scrub the tool gently, making sure to reach all the crevices and bristles. Rinse the combs and brushes with clean water and let them air dry before using them again.

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Cleaning Stainless Steel Appliances

Cleaning stainless steel appliances can be a challenging task as they tend to show fingerprints and smudges quite easily. Baking soda can be an effective solution to clean stainless steel appliances without leaving any scratches or marks. To clean stainless steel appliances, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.

Apply the paste onto a damp cloth and rub it onto the surface of the appliance, in circular motions. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a clean cloth. The baking soda paste will help remove any dirt, grime, and fingerprints from the surface of the stainless steel, leaving it looking clean and shiny. Baking soda works as a gentle abrasive that can effectively clean stainless steel appliances without damaging their surfaces.

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Removing Oil and Grease Stains From Clothing

Baking soda is a powerful natural cleaner that can be used to remove oil and grease stains from clothing. To use baking soda for this purpose, you will need to create a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water. Apply the paste directly onto the stained area and rub it in gently. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then wash the clothing as usual.

Baking soda works to break down the grease and oil molecules in the stain, making them easier to remove from the fabric. Additionally, baking soda has natural absorbent properties, which can help to pull the stain out of the fabric. It’s important to note that baking soda is best used on fresh stains, so it’s important to treat the stain as soon as possible.

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Cleaning Grout Between Tiles

Cleaning the grout between tiles is an essential household chore, but it can be challenging to remove stubborn dirt and grime. Luckily, baking soda is an effective and natural cleaning solution that can help restore the appearance of the grout. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can gently scrub away dirt, grime, and stains from grout without causing any damage. When mixed with water, it forms a paste that can be applied directly to the grout lines.

The paste can penetrate deep into the grout, loosening dirt and stains, and making them easier to remove. Once applied, the baking soda paste needs to sit for a few minutes to allow the cleaning action to take place. After a few minutes, the grout can be scrubbed with a brush and then rinsed with water. The result is sparkling clean grout that looks brand new.

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Making a DIY Facial Scrub

Baking soda’s mild abrasive properties and alkaline pH level make it an ideal ingredient for a gentle facial scrub that can be customized to suit individual skin types. When mixed with water, baking soda creates a paste that can be easily applied to the skin.

The fine particles of baking soda gently exfoliate the skin, removing impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil, leaving it feeling smooth and refreshed. Additionally, the alkaline nature of baking soda helps to balance the pH level of the skin, which can help to reduce inflammation, prevent breakouts, and improve overall skin texture.

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Removing Soap Scum From Shower Doors

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can be used as a natural cleaner to remove soap scum from shower doors. The soap scum that accumulates on shower doors can be difficult to remove with regular cleaning products. Baking soda works by breaking down the soap scum and loosening it from the surface of the shower door. Mixing baking soda with water to form a paste creates an easy-to-apply solution that can be used to scrub the soap scum off the shower door. This method is safe for most types of shower doors and is an eco-friendly alternative to harsh cleaning chemicals.

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Relieving Diaper Rash

Diaper rash can cause a lot of discomfort and pain for babies, but baking soda can help to relieve the symptoms. When added to bath water, baking soda can provide a soothing and healing effect on the skin. The alkaline properties of baking soda help to neutralize the acidity of urine and feces, which can irritate the skin and lead to diaper rash. In addition, baking soda has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with diaper rash.

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Removing Rust From Metal

Baking soda’s abrasive properties make it an excellent solution for removing rust from metal surfaces. To create a rust-removing paste, mix baking soda with water and apply it to the rusted area. The paste dissolves the rust through a process called oxidation, in which baking soda reacts with the rust. The longer the paste remains on the rusted surface, the more effective it will be.

Once the rust has been loosened, scrub the surface with a brush to remove any remaining rust particles. Finally, rinse the metal surface with water to remove any excess paste and rust particles. Baking soda’s ability to effectively remove rust from metal surfaces makes it a cost-effective and efficient solution for restoring rusty items to their original shine.

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Making Homemade Play Dough

Baking soda plays a vital role in creating homemade play dough that is safe, affordable, and easy to make. To make play dough, combine baking soda, flour, salt, and water to form a dough, and knead it until it becomes smooth and pliable. The reaction between baking soda and salt produces carbon dioxide bubbles that give the dough its light and fluffy texture while also making it more malleable and pliable for shaping and molding.

Using baking soda to create homemade play dough is an excellent alternative to expensive and potentially harmful store-bought options. With this simple recipe, you can create endless hours of fun and entertainment for children, with the added benefit of peace of mind knowing exactly what ingredients they are using.

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Removing Burnt-on Food From Pots and Pans

Baking soda is an excellent natural cleaner for removing burnt-on food from pots and pans. The baking soda works by breaking down the burnt food particles and making them easier to remove. The alkaline nature of baking soda also helps to neutralize any acidic compounds in the burnt food, which can make it stick to the pot or pan. Sprinkle baking soda onto the burnt area, add a small amount of water, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then scrub with a brush or sponge and rinse with water. The burnt-on food should lift away easily, leaving your pots and pans looking like new.

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Cleaning and Deodorizing Cutting Boards

Baking soda is a versatile household item that serves as a natural deodorizer and cleaner and can be particularly useful in cleaning and deodorizing cutting boards. By sprinkling a bit of baking soda onto the surface of the board and using a damp sponge or brush to scrub it clean, the abrasive nature of the baking soda effectively removes stains and debris.

Furthermore, baking soda’s alkaline properties serve to neutralize any unpleasant odors that may have accumulated on the board. Once the cleaning process is complete, simply rinse the cutting board with water and dry it off with a clean towel. With baking soda’s assistance, your cutting board will be left smelling fresh and clean.

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Removing Mildew from Shower Curtains

Mildew stains on a shower curtain can be a tough challenge to deal with, but baking soda provides an effective solution. To tackle mildew stains, mix baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to the affected areas of the shower curtain.

The baking soda paste works by breaking down the mildew and making it easier to remove, while the abrasive nature of baking soda helps to scrub away any persistent stains. Once the baking soda paste has had time to work its magic, rinse the shower curtain thoroughly with water and hang it up to dry. With the help of baking soda, your shower curtain can be restored to its former glory and free of unsightly mildew stains.

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Making Homemade Laundry Detergent

Baking soda can be used to make a simple and effective homemade laundry detergent. Mix baking soda, washing soda, and grated soap together to form a powder. The baking soda helps to soften the water and remove any dirt or odors from your clothes. It also helps to brighten colors and whiten whites. Use this mixture as you would regular laundry detergent, but use about half the amount you would typically use for a load of laundry. Homemade laundry detergent made with baking soda is an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to store-bought detergents.

Baking soda is much more than just an ingredient for baking. With its numerous practical uses, it’s no surprise that many refer to it as “the miracle product”. From cleaning surfaces to eliminating odors, this household staple has proven itself to be incredibly versatile and effective. And best of all, it’s an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to many expensive cleaning and deodorizing products. So, the next time you’re wondering how to tackle a tough cleaning job or how to eliminate an unpleasant odor, remember that baking soda just might be the answer.

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