Cleaning with Bicarbonate of Soda: An Eco-Friendly Alternative
Bicarbonate of soda (or baking soda) is one of the world’s most versatile cleaning agents.
Not only is it incredibly effective, but it’s also all-natural and incredibly affordable.
Plus, with its mild abrasive properties, it can help remove tough stains without damaging the surface underneath.
Let’s take a closer look at this miraculous cleaning agent.
The Benefits of Bicarbonate of Soda
Bicarbonate of soda is great for removing dirt and grime from surfaces without leaving harmful chemical residues behind.
It is also highly effective at deodorizing surfaces and fabrics, making it perfect for eliminating pet odours or getting rid of musty smells in the fridge or pantry.
In addition to its cleaning properties, bicarbonate of soda has antiseptic and antifungal qualities that make it great for combating mould and mildew as well.
Another great thing about bicarbonate of soda is that it can be used on many different surfaces, including porcelain, glass, stainless steel, ceramic tile, linoleum floors, carpets, fabric upholstery, and even leather items like shoes or furniture.
It is so gentle on surfaces (as compared to other harsh household cleaners), you don’t have to worry about damaging your belongings while trying to clean them.
Plus it’s much cheaper than other commercial cleaners too!
Finally, another bonus with bicarbonate of soda is that it really does not require a lot to get the job done—a single box will last you a long time!
So let’s look at what you can clean with baking soda.
Using Bicarbonate of Soda in the Kitchen
Bicarbonate of soda has long been a favourite among cooks and bakers alike, used both as a leavening agent in cakes and other baked goods but it’s also amazing for cleaning your kitchen.
Cleaning Dishes with Bicarbonate of Soda
To clean dishes with bicarbonate of soda, simply sprinkle some into a sink or bowl filled with warm water and allow dishes to soak for 10 minutes before scrubbing them clean.
Cleaning Cookware & Countertops with Bicarbonate of Soda
To use it as an abrasive cleaner, mix it with a little water to create a paste that can be applied directly onto stubborn stains on cookware or countertops.
This mixture can also be used to remove burned-on food from the bottom of pans.
You can also make a paste out of equal parts bicarbonate of soda and water to help remove tough stains from porcelain surfaces like sinks and tiles.
Cleaning the Oven with Bicarbonate of Soda
For tougher jobs like ovens, mix together 1 cup of bicarbonate of soda with enough water to form a paste-like consistency.
Spread the paste over any baked-on grease inside the oven and let it sit overnight before wiping off with a damp cloth or sponge in the morning. For extra tough spots, use a nylon scrubber or steel wool pad when wiping off the paste mixture.
Cleaning Your Fridge with Bicarbonate of Soda
Cleaning with bicarbonate of soda is an easy and effective way to get rid of grime and bacteria that have become trapped in your refrigerator.
Using just a little bit of water and some bicarbonate of soda, you can create a paste that can be applied directly to the fridge walls and then left for 12-15 minutes before rinsing off with cold water.
This will help to dissolve dried on food and neutralize any nasty smells that may have taken over your appliance.
Cleaning your Bathroom with Bicarbonate of Soda
A simple paste with baking soda, water and lemon juice can do wonders for all sorts of tough stains in the bathrooms, such as soap scum on tiles or rust on faucets. It is an effective cleaner that also leaves behind a pleasant scent!
Simply mix one part of bicarbonate of soda with two parts water, apply it onto surfaces, let it sit for a few minutes before wiping away – the dirt will come off quickly and easily.
You’ll have a sparklingly clean hopefully eco-friendly bathroom in no time.
Cleaning Glass & Windows
Cleaning glass and windows with bicarbonate of soda can be an effective yet economical way to make them sparkle.
Begin by mixing a few tablespoons with warm water in a spray bottle and use this solution as you would any other cleaning product.
For particularly stubborn marks on glass or windowpanes, rub vinegar onto the surface before sponging them down with your bicarbonate of soda solution.
Use a rubber-bladed squeegee to remove any excess residue before wiping the pane dry with a clean cloth.
It’s essential to rinse off the mixture immediately after use, to avoid white deposits which are hard to remove later on.
Finish by buffing with another clean cloth for a polished finish. Make sure you pay extra attention to window edges as this is where grime tends to accumulate in hard-to-reach spots.
With a bit of time and care, you too can have gleaming glass and window surfaces that look great!
Removing Stains on Carpets and Rugs
If you have old stains on the carpets or rugs in your home, try using bicarbonate of soda as an effective spot cleaner.
Simply mix 1 tsp of bicarbonate of soda with 2 cups of warm water, then pour the solution directly onto the stain.
Leave the mixture on the stain for at least 10 minutes before blotting it up with a cloth or paper towel.
For deep-set stains, allow the mixture to sit overnight before blotting it up.
Conclusion
As you can see, cleaning with bicarbonate of soda offers a safe and effective alternative to harsh chemical cleaners that are full of toxins and potentially dangerous ingredients.
Not only does baking soda work just as well as conventional cleaners – if not better – but it also costs less too!
Plus there’s no need to worry about any adverse health or environmental effects from using this natural cleaner either – making it the perfect choice for eco-conscious households looking for an easy way to keep their homes sparkling clean without putting their families at risk.
So why not give this versatile cleaning agent a try today?
You won’t regret it!