Baking soda offers a wide range of applications beyond its traditional role in baking. Not only does it assist in the leavening of baked goods, but it also brings numerous health benefits and may alleviate specific health issues, including canker sores.

Commonly recognized as sodium bicarbonate, this versatile ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving a light and airy texture in various foods such as bread, cakes, muffins, and cookies. This effect is due to its leavening properties; when combined with an acid like vinegar or lemon juice, it produces carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise. In addition to its culinary applications, baking soda is utilized in various household tasks, showcasing its versatility.

Below, we explore 22 remarkable health benefits and uses of baking soda.

Household Uses of Baking Soda

Baking soda serves as an incredibly versatile household item, offering a myriad of applications, from sanitizing kitchen surfaces to enhancing oral hygiene. Below is an extensive overview of its various household uses.

1. Mouthwash

Incorporating mouthwash into your oral care routine is beneficial, as it reaches the nooks of your mouth and the crevices of your teeth, gums, and tongue that brushing might neglect. A significant number of individuals utilize baking soda as a natural alternative to mouthwash. Research indicates it may assist in freshening breath and providing antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits. Although one study revealed that baking soda-based mouthwash did not significantly reduce oral bacteria levels, it did enhance the pH levels of saliva, which is crucial for preventing bacterial proliferation. To concoct your own baking soda mouthwash, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon (2 grams) of baking soda in half a glass (120 mL) of warm water, then swish it around as you would with regular mouthwash.

2. Teeth Whitener

Baking soda is widely regarded as an effective home remedy for whitening teeth. Numerous studies confirm that toothpaste containing baking soda outperforms that without it in removing stains and plaque from teeth. This effectiveness is likely due to the mild abrasive nature of baking soda, which helps break the bonds of stain-causing molecules. Moreover, its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties can combat harmful bacteria.

3. Deodorant

Interestingly, human sweat is inherently odorless. It acquires its scent only after being decomposed by bacteria present in your armpits, which convert the sweat into acidic waste, creating the characteristic smell. Baking soda is frequently employed as a natural deodorant to neutralize the odor of sweat by making it less acidic, although scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited. Consider applying baking soda directly to your armpits or blending it with coconut oil, shea butter, or cornstarch to formulate a homemade deodorant.

4. Fridge Odor Neutralizer

Have you ever opened your fridge only to be met with a surprisingly unpleasant odor? This smell often arises from foods that have lingered too long and begun to spoil, persisting even after cleaning the fridge. Baking soda can help to rejuvenate a foul-smelling fridge by neutralizing undesirable odors, effectively removing odor particles instead of merely covering them up.

To utilize this method, fill a cup with baking soda and place it in the rear of your fridge.

5. Air Freshener

Not all commercial air fresheners effectively eliminate unpleasant odors; many simply release fragrance molecules that mask them. Moreover, fewer than 10% of air fresheners disclose their ingredient list, which can be concerning for those sensitive to certain chemicals found in these products. Baking soda presents a safe alternative, free from industrial chemicals, that neutralizes odor particles.

To create your own air freshener using baking soda, gather the following:

• a small jar
• 1/3 cup (74 grams) of baking soda
• 10–15 drops of your preferred essential oils
• a piece of cloth or paper
• a string or ribbon

Combine the baking soda and essential oils in the jar. Cover with the cloth or paper, secure it with the string, and place it in your living room, bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen. When the scent diminishes, simply give the jar a gentle shake.

6. Laundry Whitening Agent

Baking soda offers an economical solution for whitening and cleaning laundry. This is due to its alkali nature—a soluble salt that aids in removing dirt and stains. Older research indicates that alkalis like baking soda interact with acids in stains when dissolved in water. To implement this, mix 1/2 cup (110 grams) of baking soda into your standard amount of laundry detergent. It also softens the water, allowing you to use less detergent than usual.

7. Kitchen Cleaner

The exceptional versatility of baking soda makes it an excellent choice for cleaning kitchens. When combined with an acid like lemon juice or vinegar, it can also help manage the growth of harmful microorganisms, such as mold or bacteria. To use baking soda in your kitchen, prepare a paste by mixing it with an equal amount of lemon juice and a little water. Apply the paste to the surface with a sponge or cloth and scrub thoroughly.

Here are several kitchen items and surfaces you can clean using baking soda:

• ovens
• stained coffee mugs
• stained marble
• grease spots
• kitchen tiles
• clogged drains
• tarnished silverware
• microwaves
• countertops

8. Garbage Odor Neutralizer

Full trash bags often emit a disgusting odor due to decaying waste. If particularly pungent, this smell can permeate your kitchen and other parts of your home. Fortunately, baking soda can help eliminate garbage odors by neutralizing acidic odor molecules. Research suggests that sprinkling baking soda at the bottom of waste bins can reduce garbage odors by as much as 70%.

9. Carpet Stain Remover

A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can effectively tackle even the most persistent carpet stains. The combination produces carbonic acid, a common ingredient in many cleaning products, resulting in a fizzy reaction that aids in breaking down stubborn stains.

To remove carpet stains using this method, follow these steps:

1. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the stain.
2. Fill a spray bottle with a 1-to-1 mixture of vinegar and water, then spray it over the stained area.
3. Allow it to sit for up to 1 hour or until the area dries.
4. Scrub the baking soda loose with a brush and vacuum the remnants.
5. The stain should be fully removed. If any baking soda residue remains, wipe it up with a damp towel.

10. All-Purpose Bathroom Cleaner

Like kitchens, bathrooms can be challenging to clean due to the variety of surfaces that require frequent attention. While many commercial bathroom cleaners are available, a growing number of individuals prefer natural, cost-effective options. Baking soda proves valuable as it whitens and disinfects numerous bathroom surfaces, although it may be less effective than some commercial alternatives.

Here are several bathroom surfaces you can clean using baking soda:

• bathroom tiles
• toilets
• showers
• bathtubs
• bathroom sinks

To clean, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a little water. Use a sponge or cloth to apply the mixture thoroughly to the surface, then wipe it down with a damp cloth after 15–20 minutes.

11. Pesticide Remover for Fruits and Vegetables

Many consumers are increasingly concerned about pesticide residues on produce. Pesticides protect crops from insects, germs, rodents, and weeds, yet many can have detrimental effects on human health. While peeling fruits is an effective way to remove pesticides, it also means missing out on vital nutrients, such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals found in the peels of many fruits.

Interestingly, recent studies suggest that a baking soda wash is the most effective method for eliminating pesticides from fruits and vegetables without the need for peeling. One study found that soaking apples in a baking soda and water solution for 12–15 minutes removed nearly all pesticide residues. Keep in mind that this method may not remove pesticides that have penetrated the skin of the fruit or vegetable, and further research is needed to determine its effectiveness on other types of produce.

12. Silverware Polisher

Baking soda can serve as a practical alternative to commercial silver polishers. You will need a few additional ingredients:

• an aluminum baking dish or pan lined with aluminum foil
• 1 cup (240 mL) of boiling water
• 1 tablespoon (14 grams) of baking soda
• 1/2 cup (120 mL) of white vinegar

Begin by placing baking soda in the aluminum baking pan, then slowly add the vinegar. Next, pour in the boiling water and add the silverware to the pan. The tarnish should start to dissipate almost instantly. You can typically remove most silverware within 30 seconds, although heavily tarnished pieces may require soaking for up to 1 minute. This mixture causes the silver to undergo a chemical reaction with the aluminum pan and baking soda, transferring the tarnish from the silverware onto the aluminum and potentially leaving a pale yellow residue at the bottom of the pan.

13. Scorched Pot Cleaner

Accidentally scorching a pot while cooking is a common mishap. Cleaning these pots can be daunting, but you can easily revive a scorched pot using baking soda and water. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the bottom of the pot and add sufficient water to cover the burnt areas. Bring this mixture to a boil, then empty the pot as you normally would. If any stains or burnt food particles remain, use a scouring pad with a small amount of dish soap to gently scrub them away.

14. Oil and Grease Fire Extinguisher

Interestingly, some fire extinguishers incorporate baking soda. These are known as dry chemical fire extinguishers, typically used to extinguish oil, grease, and electrical fires. Baking soda reacts with heat to produce carbon dioxide, effectively smothering the flames. As such, you can utilize baking soda to extinguish small oil or grease fires. However, do not rely on baking soda for larger house fires, as these fires draw in more oxygen and can easily negate the effects of baking soda.

15. Homemade Weed Killer

Weeds often have deep root systems, making them challenging to eliminate without chemical herbicides. Notably, baking soda offers a safer and more affordable alternative due to its high sodium content, which creates an inhospitable environment for weeds. Sprinkle a few handfuls of baking soda over weeds in spaces like sidewalk cracks or driveways. However, refrain from using baking soda around flowerbeds and gardens, as it may harm other plants.

16. Shoe Deodorizer

Baking soda is an excellent solution for combating unpleasant odors in shoes. It effectively neutralizes foul-smelling scents. Pour 2 tablespoons (9 grams) of baking soda into 2 cheesecloths or thin pieces of fabric. Secure the cloths with a rubber band or string and place one in each shoe.

Remove the baking soda bags when you're ready to wear your shoes.

Potential Health Benefits of Baking Soda

Baking soda, a common household item, is not only versatile but may also provide numerous health advantages.

17. Possible Relief from Heartburn

Heartburn, also known as acid reflux, is characterized by a painful burning sensation in the upper stomach region that can radiate into the throat. This discomfort occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube that connects the stomach and mouth. While various factors can trigger acid reflux, it commonly arises after consuming large meals, indulging in carbonated drinks, or eating greasy or spicy dishes. Baking soda can help alleviate heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. To use this remedy, dissolve 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of baking soda in a glass of cold water and sip it slowly.

Keep in mind the potential drawbacks of this remedy:

• There is ongoing debate about whether every individual experiencing heartburn has elevated stomach acid levels.
• Baking soda is notably high in sodium, containing approximately 630 mg per 2.3 grams (1/2 teaspoon), which is crucial to consider if you need to manage sodium intake.
• Prolonged use may lead to metabolic alkalosis — a condition that raises blood alkalinity — along with potential heart issues.

18. Can Soothe Canker Sores

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can develop inside the mouth. Unlike cold sores, they do not appear on the lips and are not contagious. Though more research is warranted, some earlier studies indicate that a baking soda mouthwash can alleviate pain from canker sores. You can create a baking soda mouthwash using the recipe mentioned earlier. Rinse your mouth with this solution once daily until the canker sore resolves.

19. May Enhance Athletic Performance

Baking soda, often referred to as sodium bicarbonate, is a favored supplement among athletes. Some research indicates that baking soda can help you maintain peak performance for extended periods, particularly during anaerobic exercises, high-intensity workouts, and sprinting. During high-intensity workouts, lactic acid builds up in muscle cells, which is responsible for the burning sensation experienced during exercise. This lactic acid also lowers the pH within the cells, leading to muscle fatigue. By increasing the pH, baking soda might delay the onset of fatigue, enabling you to sustain maximum intensity longer.

For instance, one study revealed that cyclists consuming baking soda could ride an average of 4.5 minutes longer than those who did not use it. According to a review, this supplement is effective when taken in doses of about 0.13 grams per pound (0.3 grams per kg) of body weight. Another study suggests taking 135 mg of baking soda per pound of body weight (approximately 297 mg per kg) 1–2 hours before engaging in physical activity.

20. Can Alleviate Itchy Skin and Sunburns

A baking soda bath is frequently recommended to ease itchy skin resulting from bug bites or bee stings. Moreover, it may provide relief for skin affected by sunburn. Some individuals find that its effectiveness increases when combined with other ingredients such as cornstarch and oatmeal.

To create a baking soda bath, add 1–2 cups (220–440 grams) of baking soda to lukewarm water and immerse the affected area thoroughly. For targeted relief, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste, then apply a generous layer to the affected region.

21. May Help Slow Chronic Kidney Disease Progression

Individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) gradually experience a decline in kidney function. Your kidneys are essential for filtering excess waste and fluids from your blood while maintaining crucial minerals such as potassium, sodium, and calcium. While more studies are necessary, some research suggests that sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) supplements might enhance kidney function and decelerate the progression of CKD. However, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before taking baking soda if you have kidney concerns.

22. May Enhance Certain Cancer Treatments

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Commonly treated with chemotherapy, which involves a combination of chemicals that hinder or stop cancer cell growth, this approach is crucial since cancer cells typically proliferate rapidly. Some studies indicate that baking soda may improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs by making the tumor environment less acidic. Nevertheless, as current evidence is largely confined to animal and laboratory studies, further human research is necessary. If you are undergoing cancer treatment, it is essential to discuss the use of baking soda as a complementary therapy with your physician.

The Bottom Line

Baking soda, known as meethi soda in India, is an incredibly versatile ingredient with applications that go well beyond culinary uses. This household essential excels not only in cooking but also in neutralizing unpleasant odors and serving as an effective cleaning agent. It can tackle stubborn stains, eradicate foul smells, and efficiently clean challenging areas such as the oven, microwave, and tile grout. Moreover, baking soda offers numerous health benefits. For instance, it has been shown to help relieve heartburn, enhance athletic performance, and even contribute to teeth whitening. Another advantage of baking soda is its affordability and wide availability; having a container readily accessible is always a wise choice.