Although baking soda is a product we use almost every day, many of its truly remarkable properties still remain a mystery to most people. This simple white powder, found in nearly every household, is far more than a baking ingredient. In fact, it can be used in dozens of situations to improve personal hygiene, promote health, clean the home, and make daily tasks easier and safer. In this expanded article, we will talk in depth about the advantages of baking soda and show you 11 different ways you can use it effectively.
1. A Natural Deodorant
Most commercial antiperspirants contain large amounts of aluminum, parabens, artificial fragrances, and other chemicals that many people try to avoid. For those who want a cleaner, more natural approach to personal care, baking soda can be a great solution. It neutralizes odors without blocking sweat glands and does not interfere with the body’s natural processes.
Simply apply a small amount of dry baking soda to your underarms or mix it with a few drops of water to create a paste. This prevents unpleasant odors throughout the day. People with sensitive skin can also mix the baking soda with coconut oil to reduce irritation.
2. Relief From Itching
Baking soda is known for its soothing properties. If you are experiencing itching caused by bug bites, allergies, or minor skin irritations, a baking soda solution can help.
Dissolve a small amount of baking soda in water and apply it directly to the itchy areas using a cotton pad. This mixture helps restore the skin’s pH balance, reduce irritation, and alleviate discomfort. For more severe itching, you can make a thicker paste and leave it on the affected area for several minutes before rinsing.
3. Heartburn and Digestive Issues
Baking soda has been used for generations to relieve heartburn, acid reflux, and mild stomach discomfort. Because it is alkaline, it neutralizes excess stomach acid.
Mix ½ cup of water with ½ teaspoon of baking soda and drink it every two hours if needed. This can help improve digestion, reduce burning sensations, and soothe discomfort.
However, it is important not to overuse baking soda internally, as it contains sodium. People with chronic digestive problems should consult a doctor.
4. Foot Cleaning and Care
Feet often accumulate dead skin, unpleasant odors, or roughness on the heels. Baking soda is an excellent natural exfoliant and disinfectant.
Dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda in warm water and soak your feet for about 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, make a thick paste and gently scrub your heels or calluses. This softens the skin, removes odors, and can help prevent fungal problems when combined with proper hygiene.
5. A Relaxing Bath
Adding baking soda to your bathwater creates a calming, skin-soothing experience. It helps detoxify the skin, soften rough areas, and reduce irritation.
Pour a generous amount of baking soda into warm bathwater and soak for 15–20 minutes. This method is especially helpful for people with sensitive skin, mild rashes, or after spending time in chlorine-treated pools.
6. Natural Hand Cleaner
When hands are coated with strong odors—such as garlic, onions, cleaning chemicals, or fish—ordinary soap may not completely remove them. Baking soda is highly effective at absorbing and neutralizing unpleasant smells.
Mix water and baking soda in a 1:3 ratio and rub the mixture on your hands. It also removes dirt and acts as a gentle exfoliant. After rinsing, your hands will smell clean and feel smooth.
7. Facial Cleansing
People with oily skin or frequent breakouts often benefit from baking soda’s gentle exfoliating and antibacterial properties.
Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply it to the face using circular motions and rinse well. This method removes excess oil, cleans pores, helps with blackheads, and reduces mild acne.
Since baking soda is alkaline, it should not be used more than 2–3 times a week to avoid dryness.
8. Treating Sunburn
Sunburn can be painful, irritating, and uncomfortable. Baking soda can provide quick relief by cooling the skin and reducing redness.
Add half a cup of baking soda to warm bathwater and soak in it to ease the discomfort of sunburn. Another option is to soak a cloth or towel in a baking soda solution and place it directly on the affected areas. This method helps the skin recover faster and reduces irritation.
9. Toothpaste Substitute
Baking soda has been scientifically proven to help remove plaque and fight bacteria in the mouth.
Apply a very small amount of baking soda to the gums or mix it with water to create a paste. Brush gently to eliminate plaque and harmful bacteria. Baking soda also helps freshen the breath and whiten the teeth naturally.
However, excessive scrubbing should be avoided because it can be abrasive.
10. Natural Teeth Whitening
If you want brighter teeth without using chemical whitening products, baking soda can help.
Mash a ripe strawberry and mix it with ½ teaspoon of baking soda. Apply this mixture to your teeth and leave it on for about 5 minutes. Then brush and rinse thoroughly.
This method should be used only once a week to protect the enamel. Strawberries contain malic acid, which helps break down stains, and baking soda enhances the whitening effect.
11. Baking Soda as a Powerful Cleaner
Aside from personal care, baking soda is one of the most effective natural cleaning agents you can use in your home. When dissolved in water, it becomes a gentle but powerful cleaning solution.
You can use it to clean:
bathtubs and sinks
pots and pans
kitchen tools, knives, and forks
children’s toys
silverware
tiles and countertops
refrigerator surfaces
It can also serve as a fabric brightener. Add a small amount to your laundry to boost the effectiveness of your detergent.
To clean carpets, sprinkle baking soda directly onto the surface, leave it for at least 15 minutes, and then vacuum it. It absorbs odors and refreshes the carpet fibers.
Finally, you can even use baking soda to clean fruits and vegetables, removing pesticides and dirt safely.
