Baking Soda—More Than Just A Pantry Staple
Baking soda is widely used in cooking. But did you know that this jack-of-all-trades kitchen staple can actually be used for personal hygiene and household chores, saving you some money?
1. Mouthwash
Mouthwash is an important part of a good oral hygiene routine. Baking soda can be used as a replacement for mouthwash. Some studies indicate it can help freshen your breath. It can also provide antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. The recipe for baking soda mouthwash is easy. Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to half a glass of warm water, then swish as usual.
2. Teeth whitener
The average cost of a teeth whitening procedure at a dentist’s office is a whopping $650. Baking soda can serve as a home whitening remedy. It can break the bonds of molecules that stain the teeth.
3. Deodorant
Baking soda can be a simple swap for deodorant. Human sweat is actually odorless and only gains an odor after it’s broken down by bacteria in your armpits. These bacteria convert your sweat into acidic waste products. That’s what gives sweat its odor. Baking soda may eliminate the smell by making the odors less acidic.
4. Odor eliminator
Baking soda can also help fight bad smells from inside your fridge. It interacts with odor particles to eliminate them instead of just masking smells. Fill a cup with baking soda and place in your fridge to keep smells under wraps.
5. Laundry
Baking soda may also whiten and clean your laundry. Baking soda is a soluble salt that can help remove dirt and stains. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your regular amount of laundry detergent. It will also help soften the water. You may end up using less detergent than usual.
Different brands of baking soda can range in price. But for the most part, a one-pound box won’t run you more than $1. Try swapping some of your usual household items with baking soda and see how your savings add up.
