Baking soda is one of the most versatile household products, offering a natural, cost-effective way to clean and freshen up various areas in your home. From absorbing odors to acting as a gentle cleaning agent, this simple ingredient can work wonders in places that tend to accumulate unpleasant smells or grime.
Let’s dive into some creative ways you can use baking soda to freshen different spaces in your home, leaving it smelling clean and inviting.
- Freshen Up Drawers and Closets
Closed spaces like drawers and closets can easily trap musty smells, especially if you store linens, shoes, or out-of-season clothing. Baking soda is an excellent natural deodorizer for these tight spots.
How to Use:
Fill a small, breathable pouch or a container with baking soda, and place it in the back corner of each drawer or closet shelf.
For added freshness, you can mix in a few drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus) to give off a subtle scent.
This will absorb moisture and any unpleasant odors, keeping your stored items fresh and clean.
- Odor Control in Garbage Cans
The garbage can is one of the biggest odor culprits in any home, especially in the kitchen. Even if you regularly take out the trash, the bin can still retain smells. Baking soda is a simple, yet highly effective way to neutralize these lingering odors.
How to Use:
Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda at the bottom of your trash can before adding a new bag. This will absorb any moisture and help neutralize odors before they become overpowering.
For extra odor-fighting power, sprinkle baking soda on top of the garbage whenever you toss something particularly smelly, like food scraps or diapers.
By using baking soda regularly, you can keep your trash cans smelling fresher for longer.
- Revitalize the Refrigerator
The fridge is another common area where odors can accumulate due to the variety of foods stored. Baking soda is famous for its ability to neutralize these smells without introducing chemicals or artificial fragrances into your food storage.
How to Use:
Place an open box of baking soda in the back of your fridge. Be sure to change it out every three months for optimal freshness.
If your fridge has a particularly strong smell, you can sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth and wipe down the shelves and walls of the refrigerator.
This method helps maintain a fresh-smelling fridge and prevents strong food odors from mixing together.
- Neutralize Shoe Odors
Shoes are another source of unwanted smells, especially after being worn for extended periods. Baking soda offers a simple and effective solution to tackle those odors trapped in your footwear.
How to Use:
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside each shoe, ensuring it gets deep into the toe area. Let it sit overnight or for at least a few hours.
Shake out the excess baking soda before wearing the shoes again.
This method will absorb sweat and odor, leaving your shoes fresher for longer.
- Deodorize Pet Areas
If you have pets, you know how their bedding and play areas can develop an odor over time. While commercial deodorizers may mask the smells, baking soda absorbs them naturally, without adding any harmful chemicals that could affect your furry friend.
How to Use:
Sprinkle baking soda over your pet’s bedding, let it sit for about 15–30 minutes, and then vacuum it up.
You can also use baking soda on pet toys, crates, and scratching posts by sprinkling it lightly, waiting a bit, and then wiping it clean or vacuuming the area.
This helps keep your pet’s areas fresh and odor-free without the need for harsh cleaners.
- Refresh Carpets and Rugs
Carpets and rugs are magnets for dust, dirt, and odors, especially in high-traffic areas. A simple sprinkle of baking soda can revitalize your carpets and rugs by neutralizing lingering smells.
How to Use:
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over your carpet or rug and let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes (or longer for strong odors).
Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove the baking soda and any trapped odors.
This not only freshens the carpet but also helps loosen dirt and debris, making vacuuming more effective.
- Absorb Bathroom Smells
Bathrooms can harbor odors from various sources, including drains, trash cans, and damp towels. Baking soda can help absorb moisture and freshen the space naturally.
How to Use:
Keep a small dish or jar of baking soda in the bathroom to absorb moisture and neutralize odors.
For a deep clean, sprinkle baking soda around the sink, shower, or toilet, and scrub with a damp sponge. It will help remove soap scum and leave the surfaces sparkling clean.
By using baking soda regularly in your bathroom, you can keep it smelling fresh and free of moisture-related odors.
- Eliminate Smells in Your Washing Machine
Over time, washing machines can develop a funky smell due to detergent buildup and lingering moisture. A quick dose of baking soda can help eliminate these odors and keep your laundry room smelling fresh.
How to Use:
Once a month, sprinkle about half a cup of baking soda into the drum of your washing machine and run a hot cycle (without any clothes).
You can also add half a cup of baking soda to a load of laundry to help freshen up smelly clothes.
This routine will help remove odors from the machine and prevent them from transferring to your laundry.
Conclusion
Baking soda is a natural, effective, and inexpensive solution for freshening up various spaces around your home. From absorbing moisture in drawers to neutralizing odors in garbage cans, carpets, and even shoes, this versatile household staple can help you maintain a clean and pleasant environment. Plus, it’s safe, chemical-free, and eco-friendly, making it an ideal choice for any home.
Give baking soda a try in these different areas of your home and enjoy the fresh, clean results!