Baking soda is an inexpensive, versatile ingredient that can help you tackle a wide variety of problems around the house. Also known as sodium bicarbonate, this white powder isn't just a cooking ingredient — it’s also a natural and non-toxic cleaning agent that’s safe for your health and gentle on the environment.

Thanks to its mildly abrasive texture and powerful deodorizing properties, baking soda is a great solution for cleaning and freshening up your home. Here are 10 genius tips for using baking soda effectively — and a few bonus ideas to help you get even more out of this household staple.

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1. Deodorize Smelly Shoes

Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside your shoes and leave it overnight. It absorbs moisture and eliminates unpleasant odors. The next day, just shake it out and your shoes will feel much fresher. For persistent odors, try placing a small fabric pouch of baking soda inside your shoes regularly.

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2. Remove Odors from Plastic Containers

Plastic food containers often retain strong smells. To remove them, add a spoonful of baking soda and some warm water to the container, close the lid, and shake well. Then wash it with dish soap and rinse thoroughly. This method neutralizes food odors quickly and effectively.

Tip: You can also make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub the inside for extra cleaning power.

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3. Freshen Up Laundry

Add one tablespoon of baking soda to your laundry detergent or directly into the washing machine drum. It boosts the cleaning power of your detergent and helps eliminate musty smells from clothes. It’s particularly effective for workout gear or clothes left damp for too long.

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4. Clean Kitchen and Bathroom Sinks

Sprinkle baking soda all over the sink surface, then scrub with a brush or sponge. It removes grease, grime, and odor buildup, especially around the drain. You can use the same method for bathroom sinks, bathtubs, and even shower tiles for a natural deep clean.

Bonus: For extra disinfecting power, follow with a rinse of white vinegar.

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5. Clean the Microwave

Dampen a sponge or cloth with water, sprinkle it with baking soda, and use it to wipe down the inside of your microwave. It helps remove stuck-on food and lingering smells. For tougher stains, microwave a bowl of water and lemon slices first to loosen grime before wiping.

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6. Descale Your Kettle

Limescale builds up inside kettles over time. Fill your kettle with water and add two teaspoons of baking soda. Let it sit for several hours or overnight. For quicker results, boil the mixture and let it cool. Then rinse thoroughly. Your kettle will be clean and free of mineral deposits.

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7. Sanitize Cutting Boards

Cutting boards can harbor bacteria and bad smells from food residue. Sprinkle baking soda over the surface, then rub with half a lemon. This combination removes stains, kills germs, and deodorizes effectively. Rinse well afterward and let dry completely.

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8. Deep Clean the Toilet

To clean and deodorize your toilet, sprinkle baking soda inside the bowl, then pour white vinegar over it. The fizzing reaction helps lift grime and stains. Let the mixture sit for at least one hour, scrub with a toilet brush, and flush. Your toilet will be both clean and odor-free.

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9. Neutralize Fridge Odors

Refrigerators often develop odors from stored food. Place a small bowl of baking soda on one of the shelves to absorb unpleasant smells. For best results, replace it every 1–2 months. You can also sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge and use it to wipe down the interior.

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10. Clean Fruits and Vegetables

Baking soda is an excellent way to clean produce. Sprinkle some onto fruits and vegetables, then soak them in water for about 10 minutes. It helps remove dirt, pesticides, and wax. For firmer fruits like apples or pears, you can scrub them directly with baking soda for a deeper clean.

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Bonus Tips for Using Baking Soda Around the House

• Freshen carpets: Sprinkle baking soda on your carpet, let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum. It lifts dirt and odors.

• Clean silverware: Make a paste of baking soda and water to polish silver items gently.

• Unclog drains: Pour baking soda followed by vinegar into a clogged drain, let sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.

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In Summary

Baking soda is a budget-friendly, non-toxic ingredient that deserves a permanent spot in your cleaning kit. From deodorizing and disinfecting to removing stains and freshening up your home, it’s a multi-purpose solution that works wonders in every room. Once you discover how effective it is, you’ll never want to be without it again.