22 household cleaning tips using baking soda

Baking soda can be used to freshen and clean various places and objects around the home. It is a mild abrasive and can help reduce some odours. Check that it is suitable for the material before use.

1. Remove stains from plastic food containers

To reuse and freshen empty containers or food boxes, clean them with a sponge sprinkled with baking soda. You can also soak containers in a solution of four tablespoons of baking soda and a litre of warm water to help loosen stubborn stains.

2. Reduce refrigerator odours

If food has left an odour in the refrigerator, baking soda can help absorb it. First remove the source and clean the surfaces, then use a container of baking soda to freshen the interior.

3. Clean fruit and vegetables

Mixed with water, baking soda can help remove dirt and wax coatings from some fruit. Rinse thoroughly with drinking water.

4. Clean kitchen surfaces

Baking soda mixed with water can help clean compatible worktops, stainless steel sinks, microwaves, extractor hoods and kitchen utensils. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions, especially for delicate finishes.

5. Clean greasy dishes and pans. Hot water, baking soda and a suitable sponge can help loosen grease from pans, trays and oven racks. Avoid scourers that scratch the coating. 6. Freshen smelly sponges.

Soak them in baking soda and water to help reduce odours. This does not disinfect them or replace regular changes: discard damaged sponges and replace them regularly according to use.

7. Freshen upholstery

On compatible fabrics, sprinkle baking soda, leave for fifteen minutes and vacuum thoroughly. It may also help freshen a mattress between cleans, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Reduce pet odours

If the material permits, use the same method on a pet bed: sprinkle, wait fifteen minutes and vacuum thoroughly. Keep the animal away during cleaning.

9. Clean old, dirty toys

Clean suitable toys with a damp sponge and a solution of baking soda and water. Rinse and dry thoroughly. This helps remove dirt but does not guarantee disinfection or bacterial removal.

10. Clean crayon marks from walls

For coloured pencil or crayon marks, try gently wiping with a damp sponge and a little baking soda. Test an inconspicuous area first to check that the paint is not damaged.

11. Clean bathroom surfaces

Scrub compatible bathtub, tile, basin and shower curtain surfaces with a damp sponge and baking soda. Rinse thoroughly. Persistent moisture or extensive mould also requires assessment of its cause.

12. Remove dust from soft toys and cushions

If the care label allows, place items in a large bag with a cup of baking soda, close it and shake. Remove the powder afterwards and wash according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Not all fillings are machine-washable.

13. Help with laundry

Adding baking soda to a compatible wash may help reduce odours. Check detergent, machine and fabric instructions first; different programmes and materials may not permit the same additives.

14. Deal with light drain soiling. Baking soda and vinegar foam when they react but do not guarantee clearing a blockage. Do not combine them with drain cleaners or other products. If water will not drain, consult a professional. 15. Freshen smelly trainers.

Place a little baking soda in shoes or a gym bag if the material allows and leave it to work. Remove it completely before using them again.

16. Reduce bin odours. After cleaning and drying the bin, a little baking soda at the bottom may help reduce odours. 17. Treat a fuel spill in the garage cautiously. Do not treat it as a household stain or scrub it with water: keep ignition sources away and seek appropriate assistance. 18. Clean a dirty grill.

On a cool, compatible grill, a little baking soda may help remove dirt with a suitable brush. Remove residues and follow the barbecue’s cleaning instructions.

19. Clean patio furniture

Before setting out garden chairs, clean compatible materials with a cloth, baking soda and water. Ensure cushions are dry before storage; a separate container of baking soda in the storage space may help with odours.

20. Reduce linen cupboard odours

As in the refrigerator, an open container of baking soda near sheets and towels may help with odours. If there is damp, address its source and dry fabrics thoroughly.

21. Glass marks on tables

A toothpaste and baking soda mixture can be abrasive and is not suitable for every finish. Before treating a water ring, identify the material and test any method in an inconspicuous spot. For delicate or valuable furniture, follow manufacturer guidance or consult a specialist.

22. Clean suitable silver items

For solid silver without delicate finishes, a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water may be considered, applied with a soft cloth and rinsed afterwards. Avoid abrasive paper and do not use on stones, plated items or patinas without advice.