In addition to vinegar, baking soda is one of the most versatile and inexpensive ways to clean around your home. Best of all, it's non-toxic, eco-friendly, and cheap! Try these solutions the next time you clean:
- Unclog a drain: Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the clogged drain and follow with 1 cup white vinegar. (Note the cool fizzing sound!) Cover. After 15 minutes, rinse with a large pan of boiling hot water. Repeat if necessary.
- All Purpose Cleaner: In an old spray bottle, combine 2 cups hot water, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon Borax, 2 teaspoons lemon juice or white vinegar, and a drop of eco-friendly washing up liquid. Use on countertops, refrigerators, cupboards and more.
- Clean the oven: Add 4 tablespoons baking soda to 1 quart warm water and clean oven with sponge. For really deep cleaning, sprinkle inside of oven with paste of baking soda and water and let set over night. Scour and rinse the next day.
- Stainless Steel: Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp cloth or sponge and clean. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly for a great shine.
- Freshen carpets: Sprinkle with baking soda and let stand for 15 minutes. Vacuum and repeat if necessary.
- Stubborn stains: Use a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda to one part water) to remove stains from most surfaces. Apply, let sit, then scrub or wipe clean.
The uses for baking soda are endless. So the next time you're at the store, skip the cleaning solution aisle and head to the baking aisle instead. You'll be doing your wallet and the environment a favor!
