With a multitude of uses throughout the home, some of us may have forgotten that baking soda is also a powerful cleaning agent that is inexpensive, and safe for the whole family when used as directed.
So exactly how does baking soda fit into my scheme to make the world a better place? Baking soda, aka sodium bicarbonate, helps regulate pH—keeping a substance neither too acidic nor too alkaline. When baking soda comes in contact with either an acidic or an alkaline substance, its natural effect is to neutralize that pH.
Beyond that, baking soda has the ability to retard further changes in the pH balance, known as buffering. This dual capability of neutralizing and buffering allows baking soda to do things such as neutralize acidic odors (like in the refrigerator) as well as maintain neutral pH (like in your laundry water, which helps boost your detergent’s power). Here are some useful ways to make baking soda work for you:
• Instead of harsh chemical cleaners, use baking soda as a natural and food-safe surface cleanser on your kitchen counters. Sprinkle it onto a damp sponge or cloth to wipe surfaces clean.
• An effective cleaner on tough coffee and tea stains, baking soda when paired with warm water can be used to thoroughly clean coffee makers, mugs and tea cups. Remember to rinse well.
• To help cut through grease on dishes, pots and pans, add 30 grams of baking soda (along with your regular detergent) to your dishwater. Let it soak for 15 minutes and then clean.
