Sodium bicarbonate is a substance often used in the preparation of ecological detergents for cleaning the house, and as a deodorant for people and the environment . Which makes it really very useful and effective. Bicarbonate is generally found in nature, but it can also be produced industrially.
Sodium bicarbonate – NaHCO3 – is also known as monosodium carbonate . From a chemical point of view it is defined as carbonic acid.
Sodium bicarbonate commonly found for sale is listed as food-safe. The industry uses it as an additive in the preparation of packaged foods. Its presence in food is identifiable on the package due to the acronym E500 .
We find sodium bicarbonate directly in nature in deposits where there is a presence in the form of flakes or effervescence. In particular environments, it is recovered as a secondary component of natron .
Industrial bicarbonate production requires the use of ammonia, carbon dioxide, and sodium chloride. The result is a chemical reaction that results in the production of ammonium chloride and sodium bicarbonate. The chemical formula for its industrial production was developed by Ernest Solvay in 1863 . Sodium bicarbonate, in contact with water, gives rise to the formation of a slightly basic solution (pH 8.6).
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Natural baking soda
One of the largest natural deposits of sodium bicarbonate in the world is the Verde River basin, located in the central region of the United States. There are several companies that are involved in the extraction, use and sale of pure or chemically treated products, not necessarily polluting. In this way, in any case, a product with low environmental impact is obtained.
Ways to use Sodium Bicarbonate
Baking soda is used in numerous ways, be it for industrial or household use . For example, it is used to facilitate the fermentation of pasta during cooking, helping to release carbon dioxide. It has a slight abrasive and bleaching power, which induces its use in the industrial formulation of toothpastes . Also for its whitening power, sodium bicarbonate is used in laundries to give life to white or pre-treatment of stains on fabrics. Baking soda powder absorbs odors from the environment. For this reason, it is helpful to put it in a mug in the refrigerator or on the shoe rack.
In personal care, bicarbonate is an excellent powdered deodorant, being able to neutralize acidity and bad odors caused by the presence of sweat . The slightly basic nature of water and bicarbonate solutions makes it useful not only to combat bad odors caused by heartburn, but also mold and mildew that live in an acidic environment. Baking soda powder has the ability to adjust the pH of the surface on which it is used. It enhances the action of detergents, it is useful for cleaning bottles, dishes and rusty objects.
Baking soda and vinegar
You’ve probably heard that you don’t combine baking soda with vinegar, because one substance overrides the other. But if you want to make cleaning products for aerosol use , you will actually have to combine the baking soda with vinegar and water. Spraying on a small surface, first baking soda and then putting a few drops of vinegar, causes an effervescent chemical reaction that can be useful for removing dirt stains, for example on the kitchen stove.
The same combination can be used for cleaning and bleaching the cat’s litter box , for example, one after the other: a cup of vinegar, a cup of baking soda and a pint of hot water. The application of vinegar and sodium bicarbonate on the surface can also be useful to eliminate the stench given by substances in the urine of dogs and cats, which can be acidic (and that will be eliminated by the bicarbonate) or alkaline (neutralized by the vinegar). As an alternative to vinegar, you can use citric acid or lemon juice.
Important: To enjoy all the benefits of baking soda, it has to be as pure as possible.
Alternative uses of baking soda in personal hygiene
1. Toothpaste
If you generally read us, you may already know that whitening toothpaste is a mistake, because it is made with microplastics that damage enamel.
Well, you can use baking soda as a supplement to brush your teeth, you just have to put a little baking soda on the brush to give a 100% natural abrasive effect, an extra and gentle cleaning.
More on Teeth Whitening: Types, 11 Important Tips and Before and After Care .
2. Mouthwash
Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in half a glass of water and use it as a natural antiseptic that helps fight bad breath , neutralizing bad odors.
3. Cleaning dentures and mouthparts
Dissolve two teaspoons of baking soda in a glass of warm water to soak dentures and moving parts. Baking soda helps remove food debris . Cleaning can be completed with the help of a toothbrush.
4. Exfoliate the face and body
Shake three parts of baking soda in one part of the water to get a scrub for use on the face or body . Gently massage into skin in circular motions, then rinse with warm water. More information on scrubs for face and body .
5. For acne
Wash your face and then apply a baking soda and water mask. Leave on for 5 to 10 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. This will also help you get rid of pimples.
6. Deodorant
Baking soda can be used as a natural deodorant for the feet and armpits . Apply neat with your fingers or with the help of a soft tissue. To get a deodorant, dissolve two teaspoons of baking soda in a glass of water, let it sit for 24 hours, and put the liquid in a spray bottle.
7. Digestive and antacid
To aid digestion and eliminate stomach acid, it is advisable to dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water with the juice of half a lemon. This provides a 100% natural antacid that aids in digestion and prevents inflammation.
8. Insect bites and irritations
Make a creamy mixture that you apply to insect bites to relieve the itchiness . Mix a teaspoon of baking soda in a little water and apply to some of the affected areas.
9. Cleaning the hands
To neutralize odors and dirt , rub a mixture made of three servings of baking soda solution and one part of water between your hands. You can add a tablespoon of baking soda to the liquid soap that you normally use for an even more effective anti-odor action.
10. Shampoo to remove oil from hair
Add a teaspoon of baking soda to your normal shampoo and mix well. Your hair will be shiny and clean because the bicarbonate removes the traces of chemicals. More tips for oily hair.
10. Combs and hairbrushes
For a better cleaning of the brushes and combs for the hair, an immersion in a container with hot water and a tablespoon of baking soda will help you remove any residue present on these objects.
11. Bathroom
If you want smooth and soft skin , add half a cup of baking soda to your bath water and be surprised by the effect obtained.
12. Foot bath
Place hot water and two tablespoons of baking soda in a bowl. Soak your feet for a relaxing bath. To soften the skin on heels and calluses, mix a little water with a teaspoon of baking soda to make a paste and rub it on the most affected parts.
13. Decongest a stuffy nose
Add a teaspoon of baking soda to a vaporizer.
14. Reduction of dandruff
Dissolve three tablespoons of baking soda in the portion that you are going to use of the shampoo to wash your hair. Then wash your hair and rinse as normal. Try to always wash it like this until the dandruff is completely gone. More information on natural remedies for dandruff.
15. For sunburn
Add ½ cup of baking soda to the tub of warm water. Soak in the bath for a few minutes. When you go out, do not towel dry, let the skin dry naturally. You can also use a cold pack of baking soda with water, located right on the sunburn. Information on prevention with sunscreen.
16. Smooth razor hair removal
Dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of warm water. Apply before and after shaving. This type of lotion will calm the burning caused by the blade and leave the skin smoother.
17. Remove underarm stains
To get rid of underarm spots, mix lemon juice with two tablespoons of baking soda to make a paste. Daily, wash your armpits with this mixture. In addition to helping to remove stains, it helps reduce the odor of perspiration. Here are more tips to avoid underarm spots.
18. Nails free of fungus and stains
It is suggested to soak your hands or feet in a mixture of water and baking soda for 5 minutes during the day and at night, due to the properties of the compound, which helps to deeply clean the cuticle and heal the affected nails. by the mushrooms.
Alternative uses for baking soda in cleaning and laundry
19. Bathroom / Toilets
To clean bathtubs, sinks, toilets and tiles , sprinkle the surfaces to be washed with a little baking soda and then rub with a damp cloth or sponge. For greater effectiveness on stains, mix an abrasive cream with a little dish detergent, a little salt, and baking soda.
20. Pots and plates
Add a teaspoon of baking soda to water and soak stubborn pots and pans for easy removal of stains and grease . Add a teaspoon of baking soda to your normal detergent to increase the cleaning effect.
21. Kitchen sponges
To disinfect and remove odors from dishwasher sponges , soak them in a bowl of warm water with the addition of four tablespoons of baking soda.
22. Microwave
To clean your microwave , soak a cloth in a solution of water and baking soda. This solution can be used both inside and outside the microwave. Rub and then rinse with a cloth dampened in water.
23. Cutlery and kitchenware
To clean kitchen utensils and cutlery , make a polishing liquid with three parts of baking soda solution and one part of water. Gently rub the objects with a damp cloth. Rinse with lukewarm water and dry completely.
24. Cups and teapots
To remove stains and odors from teapots and cups , soak them in a solution of warm water with baking soda. For stubborn stains, clean using the polishing paste that has been described in tip 23. If you like teas, don’t miss this article about the types of tea that exist.
25. Cleaning the oven
Sprinkle some baking soda in the oven with a spray can, add hot water, and let the mixture sit overnight. In the morning, clean the oven with a damp sponge to remove stains and grease . Rinse and pat dry.
26. Soils and pavements
For floor cleaning , you can replace common detergents on the market by placing a cup of baking soda in a bucket of warm water. Then proceed with normal cleaning. For stubborn stains, sprinkle some baking soda on a damp sponge and rub the affected areas.
27. Furniture
To remove stains on furniture, sprinkle the surface with baking soda and use a damp sponge to rub gently. Rinse and dry with a clean cloth.
28. Shower curtains
To clean and disinfect plastic shower curtains , apply baking soda and clean with a damp cloth or sponge. Rinse and let dry.
29. Washing machine
To increase the effect of the washing machine, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the drawer where you put the soap .
30. Children’s clothing
To protect the delicate skin of children , it is necessary to use very mild detergents, but stains are often difficult to remove. To solve the problem, add half a cup of baking soda to the wash mode cycle.
31. Washable cloth diapers
To pre-wash cloth diapers , dissolve half a cup of baking soda in a bowl of hot water and apply this paste.
32. Sports equipment
Use a solution of water and baking soda to clean sports equipment and baking soda to remove odors from backpacks and gym bags.
33. Oil and grease stains
To remove oil and grease stains from floors and plants, for example in the garage, sprinkle baking soda on the stain and then scrub with a wet brush.
34. Car cleaning
Use baking soda to clean car lights, chrome parts, carpets, and windows . Put in a spray container a solution made with a liter of water and 50 g. of baking soda and use with a soft cloth .
Alternative uses for baking soda to remove odors
35. Refrigerator / cooler
Place a bowl of baking soda off the refrigerator shelves. The baking soda will absorb and neutralize odors .
36. Cutting boards
To remove odors found on cutting boards, sprinkle with baking soda and let it sit for a few minutes before proceeding with your regular washing.
37. Garbage containers
Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of garbage cans to protect yourself from odors.
38. Recycling bins
Clean the containers used to separate waste for recycling with a damp sponge with baking soda.
39. Pipes and drains
To remove bad odors from drains and pipes , pour half a cup of baking soda into sinks, showers, or bathrooms and run the water. Repeat once every ten days.
40. Dishwasher
Use water and baking soda to clean and deodorize your dishwasher . Baking soda can also be used in conjunction with dishwasher detergent to improve dish cleaning and eliminate odors.
41. Containers
Deodorize the containers or tuppers in which you take your lunch to work by letting them sit with the mixture and then washing them normally.
42. Carpets
To remove carpet odors , sprinkle baking soda liberally and leave on overnight . Scoop up most of the baking soda with a cleaning broom and complete with the vacuum cleaner.
43. Vacuum cleaners
Using the method explained above for cleaning carpets, you will obtain a “collateral” effect by eliminating bad odors from your vacuum cleaner.
44. Cabinets and drawers
Leave small containers of baking soda in cabinets and drawers if you want to ward off bad odors.
45. Car seats and floor mats
To remove odors from the seats and floor mats , sprinkle with baking soda and wait fifteen minutes before cleaning.
46. Sports shoes (tennis shoes)
To avoid unpleasant odors from athletic shoes, always add a little baking soda to them when not in use. Remove the baking soda before using them.
47. Bed linen and towels
Add half a cup of baking soda to the sheet and towel wash cycle for a cooling and deodorizing effect.
48. Clothes
Especially in clothes used for sports, add half a cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle of the washing machine. This will combat odors during washing and achieve a disinfecting effect.
49. Remove underarm sweat stains from clothing
Mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide) and soak your shirt or T-shirt for several hours or overnight, until the yellowish color disappears.
50. Plush and stuffed animals
For a cooling and deodorizing effect on stuffed animals, dry clean with baking soda. Sprinkle in baking soda and let it sit for fifteen minutes, then brush off.
Alternative uses of baking soda in pets
51. Cat litter box (litter boxes)
Sprinkle the bottom of the cat’s box or other pets (hamsters, birds) a little bit of baking soda before putting clean litter or clay for an anti-odor effect .
52. Pet baskets and blankets
To get clean baskets, baskets, and blankets for your pets, add two tablespoons of baking soda to the wash or rinse water for these items. For dry cleaning, sprinkle the fabrics with baking soda, wait fifteen minutes and wipe off the excess.
53. Animal toys
Soak the plastic toys in hot water with baking soda and finish cleaning using a sponge and mild soap, if necessary. For cloth toys, sprinkle with baking soda, let it sit for a long time, and remove residue using a soft brush.
54. Hygiene in animals
To keep your dog’s skin clean and shiny , add baking soda to water or add baking soda directly before brushing gently.
Other uses of baking soda
55. Yeast
You can add a tablespoon of baking soda to the yeast used in cakes and pies. Remember that baking soda is a yeast supplement, but it is not a substitute for it.
56. Camping
Baking soda is a versatile product that will be useful during your next camp. If you want to travel with a small luggage, it will serve as a deodorant, detergent for washing dishes, kitchen utensils and clothes, toothpaste and it will be useful in case of insect bites!
57. Fumigations or inhalations
The steam inhalations, or spraying, help highlight the airways obstructed by colds, allergies, etc . Do the following: bring the water to a boil, put the pot in the kitchen sink or bathroom sink, still boiling, and add a tablespoon or two of baking soda. Breathe in the fumes for about ten minutes, covering your head with a towel so that the fumes don’t disperse quickly. It’s a really effective granny’s remedy, but be careful not to burn yourself.
58. Cleaning the vegetables
In a bowl, put a dessert spoon of baking soda and water. Put the lettuce or cabbage, or arugula, whatever vegetables you want to wash, and leave for 10 minutes. Then rinse well.
59. Disinfect the tuppers
Sometimes a plastic container still smells even after washing. When this happens, mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of baking soda in hot water and fill the container. Soak overnight. For metal containers, mix baking soda with boiling water and let it steep.
Kathie Sand always saw the world of beauty as the terrain on which to build her professional career, a goal that was clear to her when she was only 15 years old. Her great concern to expand knowledge led her to settle in Paris where she studied hand in hand with the best beauty professionals and with the most advanced techniques for skin care.