Practical Uses for Baking Soda

Baking soda isn’t just for cookies!

This little box can tackle odors, clean your home, and even freshen your beauty routine.

If you’ve ever wondered what else you can do with baking soda besides baking, here are 10 smart and practical uses you’ll love.

Deodorize Your Refrigerator

Keep your fridge smelling fresh by placing an open box of baking soda on a back shelf.

Replace it every 30 days. This is one of the easiest ways to use baking soda for odors.

Freshen Carpets and Rugs

Sprinkle baking soda generously on carpet or rugs. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes to absorb odors, then vacuum it up.

It’s a quick and natural carpet deodorizer.

Scrub Pots, Pans, and Surfaces

Mix 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water to form a paste.

Use it to scrub cookware, stovetops, sinks, and even countertops.

It’s gentle yet powerful and one of the best cleaning uses for baking soda.

Unclog and Freshen Drains

Pour ½ cup baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup vinegar.

The fizzing action helps loosen grime. After 10 minutes, flush with boiling water.

This eco-friendly hack works well in kitchen and bathroom drains.

Boost Laundry Power

Add ½ cup baking soda to your wash cycle along with detergent.

It helps neutralize odors, soften fabrics, and brighten colors. This is one of my favorite baking soda laundry hacks.

Polish Silverware

Make a simple paste of baking soda and water, rub gently onto tarnished silver, then rinse and buff dry with a soft cloth.

It restores shine without harsh chemicals.

Create a Natural Air Freshener

Fill a small jar with baking soda and add 10 drops of essential oil (lemon, lavender, or peppermint work great).

Poke holes in the lid and place it in any room to absorb odors naturally.

Soothe Skin Irritations

Add 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda to a lukewarm bath to calm bug bites, mild sunburn, or itchy skin.

For spot treatment, make a paste with water and apply directly.

Whiten Teeth (Occasional Use)

Dip your toothbrush in a pinch of baking soda and brush gently once a week.

It helps remove surface stains naturally.

Use sparingly — baking soda is slightly abrasive and shouldn’t replace your everyday toothpaste.

Clean Fruits and Vegetables

Dissolve 2 teaspoons of baking soda in a quart of water.

Soak produce for a few minutes, then rinse well.

This removes dirt, wax, and some pesticides.

Deodorize Trash Cans and Shoes

Sprinkle a little baking soda in the bottom of your trash can or inside shoes to keep them smelling fresh.

Another super practical way to use baking soda daily!

BONUS:  I also like to mix some baking soda in a squeeze bottle with some Thieves concentrate to make Homemade Thieves Scrub, think Soft Scrub with a kick!

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As you can see, there are so many uses for baking soda — from cleaning your home to personal care.

At just pennies per use, it’s one of the most frugal and versatile products you can keep on hand.

Which of these baking soda hacks will you try first?