Baking soda is a common household ingredient with many uses, including as a baking agent, cleaning product, and deodorizer. But did you know that this versatile substance can also be used for health and beauty purposes?
Here are some of the ways you can use baking soda to improve your health and appearance:
To soothe sunburns
Make a paste out of baking soda and water, and apply it to your sunburned skin for instant relief.
To treat acne
Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, and apply it to your acne. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse off.
To get rid of dandruff
Massage a baking soda and water paste into your scalp, then shampoo as usual.
To whiten your teeth
Mix baking soda with water and use it as a toothpaste. Or, for a quick fix, dip your toothbrush in baking soda and brush your teeth.
To soothe canker sores
Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, and apply it to your canker sore. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse off.
Reduce under-eye puffiness
Mix baking soda with water and apply it under your eyes in a circular motion. Rinse off after a few minutes.
Treat cold sores
Mix baking soda with water and apply it to your cold sore. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse off.
Get rid of bad breath
Mix baking soda with water and gargle with it. Or, put a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it.
Soothe insect bites
Make a paste out of baking soda and water, and apply it to your insect bite.
To treat hives
Mix baking soda with water and apply it to your hives. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse off.
Baking Soda Uses for Cleaning
Did you know that baking soda can be used for more than just baking? In fact, it has a ton of different uses that can make your life a lot easier. Check out some of the ways you can use it for cleaning below!
Natural cleaning agent
Baking soda can be used as a natural cleaning agent. When combined with water and vinegar, it makes an effective cleaning solution for surfaces such as countertops, stovetops, and floors.
Eliminate odors
Baking soda can also be used to eliminate odors. Simply sprinkle baking soda on carpets or furniture, and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up. You can also place baking soda in small bowls around your home to absorb odors.
Unclog drains
Baking soda can be used to unclog drains. Simply pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a plunger and let the mixture sit for a few minutes before flushing the drain with hot water.
Remove stains
Baking soda can also be used to remove stains. Simply make a paste of baking soda and water, and apply it to the stain. Let the paste sit for a few minutes before wiping it away.
De-grease surfaces
Baking soda can also be used to degrease surfaces. Simply mix baking soda with water to form a paste, and then use it to scrub away grease and grime.
Baking Soda Uses for the Garden
If you’re looking for a safe, natural way to improve your garden’s soil and deter pests, baking soda is an ideal solution. Here are some of the best ways to use this versatile household staple in the garden:
Improve Soil Quality
Baking soda can help improve the quality of your garden’s soil by making it more alkaline. This is especially beneficial for plants that prefer alkaline soil, such as tomatoes and roses. To raise the pH level of your soil, simply mix 1 cup of baking soda with 2 cups of water and sprinkle it over your garden bed.
Deter Pests
Baking soda can also help deter pests, such as slugs, from your garden. Simply sprinkle a line of baking soda around the perimeter of your garden bed to keep these pests at bay. You can also make a pest-deterring spray by mixing 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 quart of water.
Kill weeds
Baking soda can also be used to kill weeds. Simply mix 1 cup of baking soda with 2 cups of water and pour it over the weeds you want to get rid of. You can also make a weed-killing spray by mixing 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of vinegar and spraying it directly on weeds.
Fertilize plants
Baking soda can also be used as a fertilizer for plants. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 gallon of water and use it to water your plants. This will help promote healthy growth and blooming.
As you can see, baking soda is a versatile household staple that can be used in a variety of ways to improve your garden. So, next time you’re at the store, be sure to pick up a box (or two) of baking soda to keep on hand for all your gardening needs.
What is baking soda made of?
Baking soda is made of sodium bicarbonate, which is a natural compound that can be found in mineral deposits all over the world. This compound is also known as nahcolite, and it has a wide variety of uses, from cleaning to cooking.
How does baking soda work?
When baking soda comes into contact with an acid, it releases carbon dioxide gas. This is what gives baked goods their fluffy texture. In the garden, this reaction can help improve soil quality and deter pests.
Why is baking soda good for baking?
Baking soda is a great leavening agent for baking because it helps produce a light, fluffy texture in baked goods. It also has a neutral flavor, so it won’t alter the taste of your recipe.
How do you use baking soda in baking?
When using baking soda in baking, you’ll need to combine it with an acid, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk. This will help activate the baking soda and produce carbon dioxide gas, which will give your baked goods light, fluffy texture.
What are some other uses for baking soda?
Baking soda can also be used for cleaning, deodorizing, and extinguishing fires. It’s also a common ingredient in many kinds of toothpaste and mouthwashes.