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Is there a small orange box lurking in the back of your fridge? If there is, you're familiar with the use of baking soda as a refrigerator deodorizer.
The Arm & Hammer brand, which dates all the way back to 1846, has cornered the baking soda market with its bright carton and its familiar logo featuring the Roman god Vulcan's arm. Even some knock-off brands use that recognizable orange color. But what's in that small box exactly, and why should you have way more of it on hand?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate or bicarbonate of soda, is a chemical compound (NaHCO3) that is crystalline in its natural form in nature but is ground to a fine powder for commercial use. Sold in most supermarkets for around $1 for an 8-oz box or in bulk quantities online, baking soda is one of the most versatile and economic supplies you can have on hand.
Here are over 100 uses for baking soda.
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Table of Contents
Household Uses
1. Air Freshener – Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a small container or bowl of baking soda. Place several through your home to absorb odors and make your rooms smell better.
2. Baby Bottles – Clean and soak baby bottles in a solution of baking soda and water to neutralize odors and loosen stuck-on milk residue. Use about 2 tablespoons of baking soda per quart of warm water, let them soak for a few hours, then rinse thoroughly before sterilizing.
3. Bugs – Sprinkle baking soda along windowsills, doorways, or wherever insects seem to be entering your home as a deterrent. Oftentimes, pests will turn around and go somewhere else.
4. Carpet Deodorizer – Sprinkle rugs and carpet with baking soda and let it sit overnight so it can absorb odors. Vacuum it up in the morning.
5. Chrome – Polish chrome by making a thick paste of baking soda and water, then applying it with a soft cloth or sponge. Gently rub the surface to remove spots or tarnish, then buff it dry with a clean cloth and rinse with water for a shiny finish.
6. Closets – Place an open container or small box of baking soda on a shelf or in a corner of the closet to absorb moisture and odors. Replace it every 1–2 months to keep the space smelling clean and must-free.
7. Coffeemaker – Clean your coffeemaker by adding ¼ cup of baking soda to a full reservoir of water and running it through a brew cycle. Follow up with one or two cycles of plain water to rinse out any residue.
8. Cutting Boards – Clean and deodorize kitchen cutting boards by sprinkling baking soda directly on the surface, then scrubbing with a damp sponge or brush and hot water. This helps lift food particles and neutralize lingering odors without harsh chemicals.
9. Dishcloths – To refresh smelly or stained dishcloths, soak them in a solution of 1 cup of baking soda mixed with 2 cups of hot water. Let them sit for several hours or overnight before rinsing and washing as usual.
10. Dishwasher – Sanitize and freshen your dishwasher by sprinkling 1 cup of baking soda across the bottom and running a hot water cycle without dishes. This helps remove odors and residue from previous washes.
11. Grease Fire – Quickly smother a small grease flare-up by sprinkling a generous amount of baking soda directly over the flames. It releases carbon dioxide, which helps cut off the fire’s oxygen supply. But only use this on small stovetop fires, and never use water.
12. Fireplace and Woodstove – Once the ashes are fully removed and the area is cool, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda in the hearth or firebox. Leave it for a few hours or overnight to absorb smoky odors, then vacuum or sweep it out before your next fire.
13. Floors – For a gentle but effective floor cleaner, dissolve ½ cup of baking soda in a bucket of warm water (about a gallon). Mop tile or linoleum floors with the solution, then follow up with a plain water rinse to remove any residue and leave a clean finish.
14. Flowers – To help fresh flowers last longer, add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the water in the vase. It can help balance pH and reduce bacteria growth, keeping the stems healthier and the blooms fresher.
15. Garbage Can – Scrub the inside of the can using a mixture of ¼ cup of baking soda to 1 quart of warm water to remove stuck-on grime and eliminate odors. After rinsing and drying, sprinkle a layer of dry baking soda in the bottom to absorb future smells.
16. Garbage Disposal – To clean a garbage disposal, pour about ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drain. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then pour in 1 cup of white vinegar to help break down buildup and neutralize odors. After the fizzing stops, flush with hot water or run the disposal with hot water for 30 seconds.
17. Drains – Pour about ½ cup of baking soda down kitchen and bathroom drains once a week to prevent buildup and control odors. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then flush with hot water to help keep pipes clear and smelling fresh.
18. Grout – Make a thick paste of baking soda and water, then scrub dirty tile grout using a toothbrush or small scrub brush. Work in small sections, let it sit for a few minutes if needed, then rinse with clean water for brighter grout lines.
19. Hamper – Sprinkle a few tablespoons of baking soda in the bottom of each laundry hamper to absorb moisture and neutralize odors from dirty clothes. Refresh the baking soda weekly for best results.
20. Houseplants – Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda into 1 quart of water, then dampen a soft cloth or sponge with the solution to gently wipe down dusty or dirty plant leaves. Avoid getting it in the soil—this is for cleaning the leaves only.
21. Laundry Detergent – Make a simple homemade laundry detergent by combining grated bar soap (like Ivory or Castile) with baking soda. Use about 1 part soap to 1 part baking soda, and store in an airtight container. Use 2–3 tablespoons per load.
22. Laundry Deodorizer – For extra-odorous laundry like pet bedding or cloth diapers, add 1 cup of baking soda along with your regular detergent. It helps neutralize stubborn smells and softens water for better cleaning.
23. Lunchboxes – Scrub vinyl or plastic lunchboxes with a paste of baking soda and water to lift stains and remove food odors. Rinse with a damp cloth and leave open to air dry.
24. Marble Counters – Gently clean marble surfaces by mixing 3 tablespoons of baking soda into 4 cups of warm water. Wipe down with a soft cloth, rinse thoroughly, and dry to prevent dulling or streaking.
25. Mattress – Sprinkle baking soda liberally across the surface of your mattress to absorb odors and moisture. Let it sit for at least 2 hours (or overnight), then vacuum it up using a clean upholstery attachment.
26. Microwave – Dip a damp sponge or cloth into baking soda and wipe down the inside and outside of your microwave. It removes food residue and deodorizes without scratching surfaces.
27. Mugs – Make a paste using equal parts baking soda and water, then use a sponge or cloth to scrub away coffee or tea stains from the inside of ceramic mugs. Rinse thoroughly.
28. Oven – Clean a lightly soiled oven by mixing 2 tablespoons of baking soda into 1 cup of warm water. Apply the mixture to the interior surfaces, let sit for 15–30 minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
29. Refrigerator – Place an open box or small bowl of baking soda on a shelf in the fridge to absorb food odors. Replace it every 1–2 months for best results.
30. Shoe Deodorizer – Sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda into each shoe and let it sit overnight to absorb odor and moisture. Shake it out the next morning before wearing.
31. Shoe Cleaner – Make a paste of baking soda and water and use it to scrub the fabric or rubber parts of athletic shoes with a cloth or brush. Rinse and let them air dry.
32. Silver – Mix baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste, then gently rub it onto tarnished silver using a soft cloth. Buff off the residue with a clean dry cloth to restore shine.
33. Stainless Steel – Use a baking soda paste to clean and polish stainless steel sinks or appliances. Rub gently with a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse well and dry to avoid water spots.
34. Sinks – Sprinkle baking soda directly into sinks, tubs, or showers and scrub with a damp sponge or brush. It works as a gentle abrasive to lift grime and soap scum without damaging surfaces.
35. Toilet – Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl and let it sit for at least an hour to neutralize odors and soften stains. Scrub with a toilet brush and flush clean.
36. Upholstery – Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over upholstered furniture and brush it in gently. Let it sit overnight to absorb odors, then vacuum thoroughly the next day.
37. Plastic Containers – Scrub stained or smelly plastic food containers with baking soda and water, then soak them in a solution of 4 tablespoons of baking soda per quart of warm water for a few hours before rinsing.
38. Pots and Pans – Sprinkle baking soda on greasy or burnt cookware and scrub with a damp sponge or brush. Let stubborn spots soak in hot water with baking soda for easier cleaning.
39. Vacuum – Add a few tablespoons of baking soda to your vacuum cleaner bag or directly into the canister if it’s bagless. As you vacuum, the baking soda helps neutralize odors and leaves your home smelling fresher.
40. Vinyl – Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp sponge and gently scrub vinyl surfaces like shower curtains, tablecloths, or seat cushions. It lifts grime and mildew without damaging the material. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth.
41. Water Rings – Make a paste using baking soda and a few drops of water, then apply it to the water stain on wood furniture using a soft cloth. Gently rub in a circular motion until the ring fades, then wipe clean and buff with a dry cloth.
Health Uses
42. Antiperspirant – Dab a small amount of baking soda under your arms using a powder puff or cotton ball to help absorb moisture and neutralize odor. If you have sensitive skin, test on a small area first, as baking soda can sometimes cause irritation.
43. Bites and Stings – Mix baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste and apply it directly to insect bites, bee stings, or itchy spots. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing to relieve itching and reduce swelling.
44. Bad Breath – Stir ¼ teaspoon of baking soda into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash. Gargle for 30 seconds, spit it out, and rinse with plain water. It helps neutralize mouth acids and freshen breath.
45. Body Aches – For sore muscles or general body aches, add 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath. Soak for 20–30 minutes to help reduce inflammation and relax muscles.
46. Canker Sores – Mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda with a pinch of salt in a small glass of warm water. Gargle the mixture, focusing on swishing it over the sore area, to help reduce pain and support healing.
47. Chickenpox – To ease itching from chickenpox, add ½ cup of baking soda to a warm bath and soak for 15–20 minutes. Pat skin dry afterward with a soft towel, being careful not to irritate the skin further.
48. Cold and Flu Congestion – Make a homemade saline rinse by mixing ½ teaspoon each of salt and baking soda into 1 cup of warm distilled or boiled water. Use it in a neti pot or nasal rinse bottle to help clear out nasal congestion and soothe sinus pressure.
49. Combs – Clean combs and brushes by soaking them in 4 cups of hot water mixed with ½ cup of baking soda for at least an hour. This loosens buildup from oils and hair products. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to air dry.
50. Cradle Cap – Make a gentle paste with baking soda and water and apply small amounts to your baby's scalp to help loosen flaky patches. Leave on for a few minutes, then rinse carefully with warm water, avoiding the eyes.
51. Dandruff – Wet your scalp and massage ¼ cup of baking soda directly into your hair. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Skip shampoo to let the baking soda work without interference.
52. Dentures and Retainers – Soak dentures or retainers overnight in a cup of warm water mixed with 3 tablespoons of baking soda. This helps deodorize and remove light stains. Rinse well before using again.
53. Diaper Rash – Make a mild paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area to soothe diaper rash. Alternatively, add 1–2 tablespoons to your baby’s bath to calm irritation during soaking. Always rinse well and pat dry.
54. Dry Shampoo – Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto your scalp and brush it through your hair to absorb excess oil and deodorize. It’s a quick way to freshen up between washes.
55. Electrolytes – To make a basic rehydration drink, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 packet of unsweetened drink mix, and sugar to taste into 2 quarts of lukewarm water. Stir well and sip as needed to restore hydration.
56. Toothpaste – Combine baking soda with just enough water to make a thick paste and use it to brush your teeth. It gently scrubs away surface stains and helps freshen breath. Use it a few times a week to avoid over-abrasion.
57. Feet – Soothe tired, aching feet by soaking them in a basin of warm water mixed with three tablespoons of baking soda. Soak for 15–20 minutes to relieve soreness, soften calluses, and deodorize at the same time.
58. Handwash – To eliminate strong odors like garlic, fish, or chemicals from your hands, sprinkle baking soda on damp skin and rub thoroughly before rinsing. It works as a mild abrasive and neutralizer.
59. Hair Conditioner – To remove product buildup and chemical residue, add one teaspoon of baking soda to a cup of your regular hair conditioner. Mix well and apply after shampooing, then rinse thoroughly for cleaner, lighter-feeling hair.
60. Heartburn – For occasional heartburn relief, stir one teaspoon of baking soda into about four ounces of warm water and sip slowly. It helps neutralize stomach acid but should only be used sparingly due to its high sodium content.
61. Hives – While showering, gently rub a small amount of baking soda onto areas affected by hives. It may help reduce itching and inflammation temporarily. Rinse thoroughly and avoid scrubbing sensitive skin.
62. Indigestion – To ease discomfort from indigestion or excess stomach acid, mix one to two teaspoons of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it slowly. Use occasionally, and avoid if you’re on a sodium-restricted diet.
63. Ingrown Hairs – Make a paste with one tablespoon of baking soda and enough water to apply to the skin. Gently scrub the area to exfoliate and help release the trapped hair. Rinse thoroughly and repeat as needed.
64. Jellyfish Sting – To soothe a jellyfish sting, apply a thick paste made from baking soda and water to the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with seawater—not fresh water, which can trigger more stinging.
65. Mouthwash – Mix ¼ cup of baking soda with warm water and add a couple of drops of food-grade peppermint oil. Use as a mouth rinse to neutralize bad breath and freshen your mouth without alcohol or artificial ingredients.
66. Poison Ivy and Poison Oak – To relieve itching and inflammation, make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it directly to the rash. Let it dry on the skin before rinsing off gently with cool water.
67. Skin Softener – Add ½ to 1 cup of baking soda to your bathwater to help soften rough skin and soothe minor irritation. Soak for 15–20 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
68. Splinter – To help remove a splinter, soak the area in warm water mixed with one tablespoon of baking soda. Do this once or twice a day to soften the skin and draw the splinter closer to the surface.
69. Sunburn – For mild sunburn relief, make a thin paste with one teaspoon of baking soda and a little water, then gently apply it to the burned skin. Alternatively, add ½ cup of baking soda to a cool bath and soak for 15–20 minutes.
70. Facial Cleansing – Combine one part baking soda with two parts ground oatmeal and mix with enough warm water to form a paste. Massage into damp skin, leave on for five minutes, then rinse with warm water for gentle exfoliation.
71. Workout Boost – Some athletes drink a mixture of water and one teaspoon of baking soda before a workout to help buffer lactic acid and reduce fatigue. Use caution, as it may upset your stomach; start with small amounts and consult a doctor if unsure.
Cooking Uses
72. Beans – To help reduce gas and bloating caused by beans, soak dry beans overnight in four cups of water with one cup of baking soda. The baking soda helps break down some of the complex sugars that cause digestive issues. Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly before cooking.
73. Chicken – To loosen feathers on freshly butchered poultry, dip the bird in a pot of boiling water with one tablespoon of baking soda mixed in. This helps loosen the follicles. After a few seconds, transfer the chicken to cold water to stop the cooking process and make plucking easier.
74. Eggs – For extra fluffy scrambled eggs, add ¼ teaspoon of baking soda for every three eggs. Whisk well before cooking. The baking soda reacts with the egg proteins to create a lighter, airier texture.
75. Fish Deodorizer – To reduce the strong smell of raw fish, soak the fillets in two cups of cold water mixed with ¼ cup of baking soda for about three hours in the refrigerator. Rinse thoroughly before cooking.
76. Fruits and Vegetables – To clean produce and remove pesticides or wax, fill a sink or large bowl with cold water and mix in one cup of baking soda. Soak fruits and vegetables for a few minutes, then scrub gently and rinse well.
77. Meat Tenderizer – For tough cuts of meat, rub a thin layer of baking soda directly onto the surface. Let it sit in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to soften the fibers, then rinse thoroughly under cold water before cooking.
78. Tea – To clear up cloudy iced tea, add just a pinch of baking soda to a gallon of freshly brewed tea. Stir well. It helps balance the acidity, which prevents cloudiness and smooths the flavor.
79. Tomatoes – To lower the acidity when cooking with fresh or canned tomatoes, stir in a small pinch of baking soda. It neutralizes excess acid and reduces bitterness without affecting the flavor too much.
80. Wild Game Flavor – To mellow the strong, gamey flavor of wild meat, soak it in a mixture of four cups warm water and one cup of baking soda for about three hours. Rinse well before cooking to avoid any lingering taste of the soda.
Pet / Animal Uses
81. Dog Care – To freshen up a smelly dog between baths, lightly sprinkle baking soda onto the fur and brush it through to absorb odors. You can also make a simple dog-safe toothpaste by mixing baking soda with a bit of water to form a paste. Apply it to a dog toothbrush or your finger and gently brush their teeth to help reduce plaque and freshen breath.
82. Litter Box – Mix a generous layer of baking soda into the bottom of the litter box before adding clean litter. This helps neutralize odors and can extend the life of the litter. You can also sprinkle a little more on top between changes for added freshness.
83. Skunk Odor – If your pet gets sprayed, mix one cup of baking soda, one tablespoon of dish soap (like Dawn), and one quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide. Use gloves to apply this mixture to your pet’s coat, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water. Repeat if needed.
84. Stall Freshener – Sprinkle baking soda in livestock or pet stalls and pens to help absorb moisture and reduce ammonia odors. You can reapply weekly or as needed to keep the area smelling fresh.
Outdoor Uses
85. Driveways and Concrete Walkways – To remove stains and grime from concrete, sprinkle baking soda directly onto the surface, then scrub with a stiff brush and a bucket of water. Rinse thoroughly with a hose when finished.
86. Grills – After grilling, sprinkle baking soda directly onto the grate or other greasy parts. Use a damp scrub brush or scouring pad to scrub away charred residue and grease. Rinse or wipe clean with a damp cloth.
87. Paint Brushes – Restore stiff or crusty paint brushes by soaking them in a solution of warm water and a few tablespoons of baking soda. Let them sit for a few hours, then rinse and reshape the bristles before drying.
88. Patio Furniture – Clean plastic, metal, or resin outdoor furniture by sprinkling with baking soda and scrubbing with a damp sponge or brush. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose to remove all residue and let air dry.
89. Pillows – Clean plastic or vinyl patio pillows by scrubbing them with a solution of 1 tablespoon of baking soda mixed into a quart of warm water. Rinse and air dry completely before storing. When putting them away for winter, seal them in a plastic bag with a small open container or sachet of baking soda to absorb moisture and prevent musty odors.
90. Sidewalks – Baking soda provides traction and helps melt thin layers of ice. Sprinkle it liberally over icy sidewalks as a non-toxic alternative to salt, which can be harsh on concrete and harmful to plants and pets.
91. Tools and Equipment – Remove dirt, grease, and rust from tools by scrubbing with a paste of baking soda and water. Use a stiff brush or old toothbrush to work the paste into crevices. Rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent future corrosion.
Automotive Uses
92. Battery – Keep car battery terminals clean by applying a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water using a damp cloth or brush. Gently scrub the terminals, then remove any residue with a clean, dry rag. Be sure the car is off and wear gloves when doing this.
93. Mats and Floors – To freshen car mats or indoor rugs, sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Vacuum thoroughly to remove odors and any trapped dirt or grime.
94. Seats – Sprinkle baking soda on cloth car seats to absorb odors from pets, smoke, or food. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or overnight for strong smells, then vacuum thoroughly. You can also place an open container of baking soda under a seat to passively neutralize odors over time.
95. Windshield – Combine 1 cup of baking soda with 2 cups of water to create a windshield-wiping solution. Apply it with a soft cloth and buff gently. It helps repel rain and can also reduce fogging when used regularly.
Garden Uses
96. Aphids – Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda around the base of plants or mix with water and a drop of dish soap to spray directly onto aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Test a small section of the plant first to check for sensitivity.
97. Birdbath and Birdfeeders – Clean birdbaths and feeders using a scrubbing paste of baking soda and warm water. This removes grime and neutralizes odors without using harsh chemicals. Rinse thoroughly to keep your feathered visitors safe.
98. Compost Smell – Sprinkle baking soda over your compost pile occasionally to help control strong odors, especially if you're composting a lot of kitchen scraps. Use in moderation so it doesn’t interfere with the composting process.
99. Compost Tools – Clean and deodorize your compost bin tools like shovels, pitchforks, or buckets with a paste of baking soda and water. Scrub thoroughly, then rinse to remove lingering smells and residue without using chemicals that could affect your compost.
100. Mildew and Fungal Disease – Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 quart of water and spray onto the leaves of plants affected by mildew or fungal disease. This can help prevent the spread of spores and is especially useful on squash, cucumbers, and roses.
101. Slugs – To deter slugs and snails, sprinkle baking soda directly along garden beds or around the base of vulnerable plants. It dehydrates these pests on contact, making your garden less inviting to them.
102. Tomatoes – For sweeter tomatoes, lightly sprinkle baking soda around the base of the plants (not on the leaves). This reduces soil acidity and can subtly improve the flavor of the fruit as it matures.
103. Weeds – Sweep baking soda into the cracks of sidewalks, driveways, or garden edges to prevent weed growth. It won’t harm established plants but can suppress small weeds trying to sprout in tight spaces.
Whew! We made it. As you can see, having a large bag or two of baking soda on hand for use in and around your home is a good idea. It's inexpensive, easy to store, biodegradable, and nontoxic. Just think of all the other products you can do without by using this amazing compound instead.
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