Surely you have heard of the sodium bicarbonate as a practical ally for home cleaning, but many people are unaware of the huge range of real applications it offers, especially when it comes to cleaning home appliances and keep them like new. this ingredient It can save you money, effort, and also reduce the use of harsh chemicals in your home, regardless of the season.
In the following lines we explain in detail how the sodium bicarbonate has become a must-have for home cleaning, breaking down both its most popular applications and some lesser-known tricks and tips for using it correctly and safely. If you're looking for solutions effective, ecological and easy to applyPay attention because this guide brings together the best experience from leading blogs and industry experts.
What is baking soda and why is it so useful in cleaning?
El sodium bicarbonate, also called sodium bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate, is a white crystalline substance that dissolves easily in water. It is obtained both naturally and synthetically, making it easy to find in supermarkets and pharmacies at truly affordable prices. alkaline nature makes it a powerful household cleaner, while respecting the environment because it is biodegradable and gentle on surfaces.
When we use it at home, baking soda stands out for its mild abrasive capacity —perfect for cleaning without scratching delicate materials— and for its odor-neutralizing power. In addition, it has the advantage of being safe for animals and children, as long as it is used in the recommended amounts.
Main benefits of cleaning with baking soda
- Efficiency and speed: Removes stubborn dirt, grease residue, and stains in no time, even in the most difficult areas of household appliances.
- Versatility: It is used to clean a wide variety of appliances, from washing machines to microwaves, refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers. It's also useful on floors, furniture, curtains, and more.
- Deodorant power: Naturally neutralizes bad odors in appliances, refrigerators, trash cans, carpets, shoes, and any surface that requires it.
- Organic product: It reduces the use of aggressive chemicals, is biodegradable and economical, which positions it as a sustainable alternative compared to conventional commercial cleaners.
- Safe for most materials: It does not damage stainless steel, ceramics, plastics or other materials commonly found in household appliances and accessories.
Applications of baking soda in cleaning household appliances
We show you the most effective uses of baking soda to clean different household appliances, combining traditional tricks and current advice from cleaning experts:
Washing machine and clothes: cleaning, deodorizing and extending their lifespan
La washer It is an appliance prone to accumulating detergent residue, limescale, and unpleasant odors with continued use. Add sodium bicarbonate in the washing cycles is one of the best tricks to:
- Boost cleanliness and eliminate waste: Add 1/4 cup of baking soda into the drum along with your usual detergent. This improves the power of the detergent, removes tough stains and enhances cleaning action, acting as a water softener.
- Deodorize clothes: If you have clothes with persistent odors, add 1 / 2 cup of baking soda directly into the detergent compartment and select a cycle with cold or warm water. The result It is fresher and more impeccable clothing.
- Clean the washing machine: To prevent residue build-up and prolong the life of your appliance, perform an empty wash with a cup of baking soda and hot water (over 60°C), then wipe off any residue with a cloth and vent the drum. Do not forget Check your washing machine manual to confirm compatibility and adjust the amount of baking soda according to the load size.
Microwave, oven and ceramic hob: remove grease and eliminate odors
El microwave oven and oven They often become dirty with food residue and grease, and can smell bad if not cleaned regularly. Baking soda is the perfect solution because it acts as both a cleaner and deodorizer:
- MicrowaveSprinkle a damp sponge with baking soda and wipe it inside the microwave. Then, remove any residue with a damp cloth and wipe the area completely clean.
- OvenSprinkle baking soda on the oven racks, trays, and floor, sprinkle with water until a paste forms, and let it sit overnight. The next day, scrub and easily remove the dirt.
- Ceramic hobMake a paste of baking soda and white vinegar, apply it to the stovetop for a few minutes, and gently wipe it off with a paper towel. This mixture removes stains and grease without scratching the surface.
What other products can baking soda be combined with?
Although works very well on its own, baking soda can be mixed with other household ingredients to enhance its action:
- White vinegarCombined with baking soda, it disinfects and helps remove grease and stubborn dirt. The effervescent mixture is perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, or drains.
- Lemon juice: Provides a pleasant aroma and reinforces cleaning power, being useful for white clothing, kitchen surfaces and difficult stains.
- Sal IslandThe abrasive effect of salt combined with baking soda helps remove tough stains from kitchen utensils, ovens, and sinks.
Other household applications of baking soda
Baking soda is not limited to just cleaning appliances. Thanks to its versatility, can be used in various household tasks:
- stains on clothes: Mixed with lemon juice or detergent, it removes tough stains and returns white to clothes.
- Disinfection and elimination of bad odors On carpets, mattresses and curtains: Sprinkle on the surfaces, let it sit for half an hour and remove with a vacuum cleaner or brush.
- unclog pipes: Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by vinegar and hot water to remove light blockages.
- Cleaning tiles, bathtubs and furnitureMake a paste of baking soda and water or soap and rub it on the surface, then rinse. It's ideal for blackened joints and stains on furniture and walls.
- Disinfecting children's toys: Soak them in water with baking soda for several hours and then rub and rinse to eliminate germs.
- Eliminate insects and pestsA mixture of baking soda and sugar serves as a home remedy to repel cockroaches and ants.
- boost liquid detergent: Adding half a cup of baking soda to your wash will give you cleaner, fresher clothes.
- Restores shine to metals and cutlery: Rub a mixture of baking soda and water or warm water with a sponge, dry well and you will get shiny metals.
Practical tips and warnings for using baking soda at home
To obtain the most of it to baking soda and avoid problems, keep these tips in mind:
- Appropriate dose and frequency: Don't overdo it. In most cases, one or two tablespoons is enough for each appliance or surface.
- Do not overmix with acidic products: The combination with vinegar is very effective, but use it only when necessary, as a continued reaction can wear down delicate components.
- Avoid use on aluminum: Baking soda may darken or damage this material if left on for too long.
- Check compatibility: Before applying to large surfaces or appliances, test on a small, inconspicuous area.
- Storage: Store baking soda in a dry place and in a tightly closed container to maintain its effectiveness.
Use these recommendations to make the most of the properties of baking soda in your home, ensuring effective and safe results.
