Welcome to Spring Cleaning for Less. We’ve already discussed lemons, vinegar and dryer sheets. Check them out if you missed them. This week, we’ve got a real super power. Like vinegar, baking soda has some major things going for it: it’s cheap, it’s non-toxic and it’s multi-purpose. Look at all the fabulous things you can accomplish with that little box!
De-Grease!
Remove grease spills easily from your floor by sprinkling them with baking soda. Then just wipe clean with a warm, damp cloth. Note: This is even safe for no-wax floors. You can also treat cooked-on grease stains on your stovetop or backsplash. First wet them with a little water and cover them with a little baking soda. Scrub the “paste” off with a damp sponge.
Clean Your Produce!
Sure you can buy expensive produce spray cleaners at the store. Or you can wash fruits and veggies in a pot of cold water with 2-3 table-spoons baking soda. The baking soda removes many of the impurities tap water leaves behind. You could also sprinkle some baking soda on a wet sponge or vegetable brush and scrub away. Be sure to rinse before serving.
Wash Your Hands!
Garlic, fish and onions can still be detected on your hands long after you are finished chopping. To rid your hands of food smells, wet them and vigorously rub with about 2 teaspoons baking soda instead of soap. The smell should wash off with the soda.
Wash Your Walls!
When I was little I distinctly remember coloring on the wall after I was told not to. I’m sure while my dad was paddling my behind my mom grabbed a damp rag, dipped it in baking soda and lightly scrubbed the marks. Try this technique and crayon should come off with minimal effort.
Or if you have wallpaper that’s seen better days, you can brighten it up. Simply make a solution of 2 tablespoons baking soda in 1 quart of water. Moisten a sponge or rag in the mixture and wipe down the walls. Remove grease stains from wallpaper by making a paste of 1 tablespoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon water. Rub it on the stain, let it set for 5-10 minutes, then rub off with a damp sponge.
Get Rid of Grime!
Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the dishwasher and run it through the rinse cycle. It will help get rid of some of the grime that collects on the inside of the machine, as well as freshen the smell of the dishwasher.
Also, most people know the technique of leaving a box in your fridge to absorb odors. Remember that you should replace the box every 30 days. If you are ready to stock up on baking soda now, go HERE to print a coupon.
Do you use baking soda in an extraordinary way?
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
My mom always used baking soda as a carpet deodorizer, and now I use it too. Just sprinkle a bunch all around the house and let it sit for awhile and then vacuum it up.
very interestin!!!!!!!
I always put a little baking soda in my washer to help freshen my clothes. It works really well, especially if you’re not using a “good” laundry detergent.