56 Ways To Use Baking Soda For Cleaning At Home

If you thought baking soda was only good for making tasty treats in the kitchen, think again! Baking soda can do much more than that.

Is baking soda good for cleaning?

Absolutely…baking soda is a powerful yet natural cleaning agent and an all-around home hero.

I have listed 56 different ways to clean with baking soda. You’ll have some fresh ideas to scrub up within your home.

From shining floors to freshening rugs and tackling difficult stains on surfaces, this wonderful powder offers so many benefits that it should be an essential part of every household’s cleaning arsenal.

First, How does baking soda work for cleaning?

Baking soda works wonders by reacting with acids (vinegar, lemon juice) to release carbon dioxide gas. This gas creates bubbles that when combined with its light grit texture, lift impurities from surfaces.

High pH levels make baking soda a powerful base that can make your bathroom smell minty fresh. So embrace the magic of baking soda and its chemical reaction for all your baking and cleaning needs!

What you can clean with baking soda

Most surfaces with household grime can be cleaned with baking soda as an all-purpose cleaner.

It’s common to clean with baking soda and lemon for food surfaces or clean with baking soda and vinegar for bathrooms and kitchens where calcium can build from hard water.

Here are some helpful pro tips for using baking soda around the house, as these are the best environmentally safe options!

1. You can use baking soda as a gentle abrasive cleaner for sinks, countertops, and bathtubs without leaving scratches.
2. Remove tough stains from coffee and tea mugs by lightly scrubbing them with baking soda.
3. Give your carpets a freshen-up by sprinkling baking soda on carpets before vacuuming, let sit for around 10 min.
4. Clean and deodorize your cutting boards by scrubbing them with baking soda and elbow grease.
5. Make a baking soda paste by mixing the baking soda with water then use a sponge to clean out stains and mildew from grout joints.
6. An excellent home remedy to remove odors from your refrigerator is to place an open box of baking soda inside at the back.
7. All your stainless steel appliances clean up nicely with a sprinkle of baking soda on a damp sponge.
8. I use one cup of baking soda to clean and deodorize my dishwasher by sprinkling it around the inside and running it through one full cycle.
9. Clean any tarnished silverware by making a baking soda paste then scrubbing them gently.
10. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth to clean and shine all your chrome fixtures.
11. Remove grease stains from the fabric by applying a paste of baking soda and water, in a paste form then gently rub the paste into the stain and let it sit, and then wash as usual.
12. Freshen your mattress by sprinkling baking soda on it, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up to freshen it.
13. Make a paste by adding water to the baking soda to clean the inside of your oven.
14. Remove crayon marks from walls by scrubbing gently with baking soda on a damp cloth.
15. Remove scuff marks from floors by sprinkling baking soda on a damp sponge and scrubbing.
16. I often clean and deodorize my garbage can with baking soda and warm water on a cloth.
17. Remove oil and grease stains from the concrete by sprinkling a cup of baking soda on the area, letting it sit, and then scrubbing with a brush.
18. Clean and deodorize your washing machine by running a cycle with one cup of white vinegar and one cup of baking soda.
19. Remove burnt-on food from pots and pans by soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and water.
20. Clean and deodorize your microwave by wiping it down with a damp cloth of white vinegar sprinkled with baking soda.
21. Apply a few drops of baking soda to remove water stains from wooden furniture.
22. Clean and deodorize your pet’s bed by sprinkling it with baking soda, letting it sit, and then vacuuming it up.
23. Remove soap scum and calcium from shower doors and tiles by scrubbing them with white vinegar and baking soda.
24. My mother’s home remedy to clean and polish the silver jewelry is to create a baking soda paste and lightly scrub the jewelry with a soft cloth then rinse well with hot water.
25. Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of your trash cans to absorb odors and I always place a nice-smelling dryer sheet in there too.
26. To lift stains from coffee and tea pots by soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and warm water.
27. Use a half cup of baking soda to clean and deodorize your toilet by scrubbing with a toilet brush.
28. Remove marker and crayon marks from walls by scrubbing them with baking soda on a damp soft cloth.
29. Clean and deodorize your gym bag by sprinkling it with baking soda, letting it sit, and then shaking it out.
30. Use baking soda to clean and freshen up your sneakers and shoes.
31. Remove stains from microwaved plastic containers by soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and water.
32. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp wet microfiber cloth to clean and shine your car’s headlights.
33. Use some baking soda to clean and deodorize your sports equipment.
34. Remove stubborn food stains from dishes by soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and water.
35. Sprinkle some baking soda on a damp sponge to clean and deodorize your bathroom.
36. Use baking soda to clean and deodorize your pet’s litter box.
37. Remove stains from clothing by making a paste with baking soda and water, applying it to the stain, and letting it sit before washing.
38. Sprinkle baking soda on your grill grates, let it soak for 10 – 20 min, then scrub with a , wet brush and wipe clean.

39. Remove odors from carpets and rugs by sprinkling baking soda on them, letting them sit for a few hours, and then vacuuming them up.
40. Use baking soda to clean and freshen up your dishwasher by sprinkling it on the bottom and running a cycle.
41. Remove grease and grime from pots and pans by soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and hot water.
42. Clean and deodorize your kitchen sponges by soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and water.
43. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth to clean and shine your jewelry.
44. Use baking soda to remove scuff marks and stains from vinyl floors by scrubbing gently with a sponge or cloth.
45. Clean and deodorize your pet’s bedding by sprinkling it with baking soda, letting it sit, and then vacuuming it up.
46. Remove stubborn stains from clothing by making a paste with baking soda and water, applying it to the stain, and letting it sit before washing.
47. Use baking soda to clean and deodorize your car’s upholstery by sprinkling it on the seats, letting it sit, and then vacuuming it up.
48. Remove odors from shoes by sprinkling baking soda inside and letting it sit overnight.
49. Clean and deodorize your trash compactor by sprinkling baking soda in the bottom and running a cycle.
50. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth to clean and shine your stainless-steel appliances.
51. Use baking soda to remove oil and grease stains from clothing by applying it directly to the stain, letting it sit, and then washing it.
52. Clean and deodorize your pet’s toys by soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and water.
53. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth to clean and shine your computer or laptop screen.
54. Use baking soda to remove odors from books by placing them in a sealed container with baking soda for a few days.
55. Clean and deodorize your vacuum cleaner by sprinkling baking soda on the carpet before vacuuming it.
56. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge to clean and shine your kitchen appliances, such as the refrigerator or microwave.

What should not be cleaned with baking soda?

Baking soda should not be used on anything with deep grooves or cracks, glass, aluminum cookware, Ceramic stove tops, Marble, wood furniture, Antique Silver, Gold plated anything, hair or skin, or wood floors.

You might think that baking soda is a miracle cleaning ingredient that can tackle any task, but think again.

While it’s true that baking soda is a natural and effective cleaner for many household items, there are a few things you should avoid using it on.

1. Deep groves or cracksFor example, don’t clean your cell phone, laptop, or other electronic devices with baking soda, as it leaves a white residue in crevices. Also, when mixed into a paste may damage the electronic components inside.
2. Not on AluminumBaking soda should not be used to clean aluminum as it can cause reactivity as it’s a mild alkaline substance (pH 9) and can react with certain metals, including aluminum. It can cause a chemical reaction that produces hydrogen gas, which can lead to bubbling or fizzing which can potentially damage the aluminum surface. When left on too long as it can cause unwanted oxidation and alter the surface’s color. In addition, the abrasive nature of baking soda with its gritty texture can cause scratches or abrasions on the relatively soft metal.
3. Do not use on glass. Glass cleaning with baking soda is not recommended as glass can easily be scratched or etched if it comes into contact with abrasive substances like baking soda. Using baking soda to clean glass can result in permanent damage, leaving behind unsightly scratches, and making the glass appear cloudy. Instead, opt for a gentle glass cleaner specifically formulated for the task.
4. It cannot deep clean carpets well. Baking soda cannot clean carpets or upholstery no matter what you read. I’ve tried to clean tomato sauce from the carpet but the reddish oil in the sauce would not come out. But it can help make carpets smell better as it does absorb odors. As a result, it will only be able to clean the surface of these materials, and the dirt and grime that are deep down will remain untouched. Follow the chart below for how long to leave baking soda on surfaces to get them clean.

How long do you leave baking soda on to clean?

If you’re cleaning your oven, you’ll want to let the baking soda sit for at least 12 hours before wiping it away.

However, for smaller cleaning tasks, like removing stains from your carpet or freshening up your pillows, you only need to let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

It’s important to note that baking soda can be abrasive, so always make sure to patch test before using it on delicate surfaces. Happy cleaning!

What do you mix with baking soda for cleaning?

1. Baking soda and water

When mixed with water will create a natural mild abrasive paste-cleaning solution that can be extremely effective in tackling stubborn stains and dirt.

Not only does this DIY cleaning solution eliminate the need for harsh chemicals, but it’s also gentle enough to use on a wide variety of surfaces, including appliances, countertops, and even jewelry.

How much to mix?

General surfaces: Mix 1 part baking soda with 3 parts water to form a paste-like consistency. Adjust the ratio as needed to achieve the desired thickness for spreading or scrubbing general surfaces.

Stain Removal: To help remove stubborn stains on surfaces, you can create a more concentrated paste. Mix parts of baking soda and water to form a thick paste (Adjust as needed).

Odor Removal: Baking soda is known for its ability to absorb and neutralize odors. For odor removal purposes, you can create a simple solution by dissolving 4 tablespoons of baking soda in 1 quart (4 cups) of warm water.

Use this mixture to wipe down surfaces or to soak items that need odor elimination, such as containers or cutting boards.

2. Baking soda and vinegar

When mixed with white vinegar this creates a powerful calcium-cleaning solution that can you can apply with a spray bottle.

When used together with vinegar, they create a foaming and bubbling effect that can lift stubborn stains and mineral deposits.

Here’s how to get the most out of this dynamic duo for surface cleaning:

How much to mix?

Start by generously sprinkling baking soda on the surface you want to clean, then slowly pour vinegar on top.

Let the mixture bubble and foam for a few minutes before scrubbing with a sponge or cloth. Rinse thoroughly with water once done.

Remember, this mix should not be used on delicate surfaces, but it’s perfect for breaking down dirt and grease on tougher cleaning jobs.

Additionally, always test a small area first to avoid unwanted damage.

3. Baking soda and lemon juice

This combination creates a very nice-smelling natural disinfectant and cleaner.

Achieving the perfect consistency of a baking soda and lemon juice mixture for cleaning tasks can be a matter of trial and error depending.

Too much lemon juice can cause a sticky film after cleaning with baking soda onto surfaces.

How much to mix for a paste?

To help you out, we’ve created a simple guideline for achieving a paste-like consistency:

1. Start with 1 part baking soda (e.g., 1 tablespoon).
2. Gradually add lemon juice, approximately 1-2 parts (e.g., 1-2 tablespoons).
3. Mix until you achieve a thick paste.

The goal is to create a spreadable paste that’s easy to apply to the surface you want to clean.

Don’t worry if it starts to fizz and bubble, this is a natural chemical reaction between the acidic lemon juice and the alkaline baking soda, which activates the cleaning properties of the mixture.

To minimize any potential loss of the reaction, it’s recommended to mix the ingredients in a bowl or directly on the surface you want to clean.

And as always, it’s wise to test the mixture on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t cause any unwanted damage. So go ahead and mix it up – your surfaces will thank you!

How much to mix for a spray?

I add 1/2 lemon to a 16 oz spray bottle.

Add 3 tablespoons of baking soda.

Fill the rest with hot water. Repeat spraying as needed.

4. Baking soda and essential oil

Used to remove smells in rooms and on furniture. Apply with a spray bottle.

Transform your living space with DIY air fresheners made from baking soda and your favorite essential oils.

Choose from fragrances like eucalyptus, rosemary, cinnamon, or lemon for a personalized touch.

How much to mix?

The recipe is simple – just mix 1/3 cup baking soda with 15 drops of your favorite essential oil (vanilla extract works too), use a whisk to blend, and transfer to a recycled glass spice container using a funnel.

Place an oil sticker on top to keep track of the scent. This small eco-friendly change can give your home a big boost of freshness!

5. Baking soda can be used alone as a natural deodorizer.

Eliminate stubborn odors like musty smells from your carpets easily with a sprinkling of baking soda before vacuuming.

For a delightful scent, add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda before applying it on the carpet. Your home will smell cleaner and fresher in no time.

Make your fridge fresh by leaving a full, opened box in the back. I change mine out every 6 months.

Can you mix Dawn and vinegar and baking soda?

Yes, you can and I do it all the time. Mix 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp Dawn dishwashing liquid detergent, and 1 tbsp white vinegar into a spray bottle.

Mixing Dawn dish soap with vinegar and baking soda may not deliver the results you’d be expecting though and here is why.

Although the combination produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and salt when mixed, adding Dawn dish soap to the bubbly effect may reduce its effectiveness as a cleaning agent.

Dawn dish soap is best used alone or with compatible cleaning agents, as mixing it with vinegar and baking soda may neutralize some of its cleaning properties.

I use this mixture in the kitchen and bathroom areas like,

• Oven cleaning
• Stainless steel sinks
• Trash can
• Dirty pans
• Toilet bowl
• Bathroom sink and tub

Does baking soda get rid of smell?

Yes, it does a great job on pet odors, musty carpets, and on furniture but can be used as an air freshener also.

To use baking soda to remove smells, simply sprinkle it on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours.

Baking soda will absorb the odors from the kitchen trash and air, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.

You can also make a baking soda paste by mixing it with water and using it to scrub surfaces that are prone to odors, such as garbage cans or sinks.

If you have a persistent odor problem like the fridge, you can place a small bowl of baking soda in the affected area to help absorb the smell.

You can also make a baking soda air freshener by combining it with essential oils and placing it in a spray bottle.

To use baking soda to remove smells from your clothes, simply add a cup of baking soda to your laundry load.

Baking soda will help to remove odors from your clothes, leaving them smelling fresh and clean.

You can also pre-treat clothes that are particularly smelly by sprinkling baking soda on them before washing them.

If you have a pet that is prone to accidents, you can use baking soda to help remove the smells from their fur. Simply lightly rub the baking soda into their fur and let it sit for a few minutes before brushing it out.

Is vinegar or baking soda better for odor?

Baking soda is better as it can absorb odor whereas vinegar is a cleaner and can remove dirt and calcium.

For example, vinegar is excellent at removing lighter smells and white calcium build-up around faucets, while baking soda is more useful for absorbing smells in enclosed spaces, like a refrigerator or closet, and foul odors from fabrics and carpets.