Baking Soda, also called sodium bicarbonate, is no less than a miracle substance. It is a versatile, universal and common substance found in most households that has as many applications. Baking Soda, an unassuming pantry staple, is so much more than just a leavening agent for fluffy cakes. It’s a true household hero, packing a powerful punch in a budget-friendly box. From conquering kitchen catastrophes to beautifying your skin, it has the calibre to solve your various problems.
Baking soda is a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO3 and is a white, crystalline substance that is commonly found as a fine powder. It tastes slightly salty and alkaline, like washing soda (sodium carbonate), with leavening properties, meaning, when it reacts with an acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice, and causes dough to rise by producing carbon dioxide.
Is this compound safe to use?
Generally, baking soda is considered safe to use due to its mild nature and properties. With a variety of uses, this non-toxic substance holds substantial potential to leverage ill effects. However, scientists and doctors recommend limiting its usage responsibly and safely.
How many uses does baking soda have?
There are many usages of baking soda. Let’s explore the multiple benefits of using it:-
· Leavening Agent Extraordinaire – The most popular use of baking soda is as a leavening agent in baking, creating light and fluffy textures in cakes, muffins, and bread. It also helps to brown the crust and enhance the flavour of the baked goods.
· Natural Deodorizer – Say goodbye to unwanted odours by placing an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator, closet, or other musty spaces.
· Teeth Whitening – Creating a DIY teeth-whitening paste by mixing baking soda with water and brushing your teeth gently, helps you to freshen up your mouth. Remember to use it only twice in a month.
· Heartburn Relief – Generally, during acidity, baking sodas help to alleviate heartburn, by consuming a solution of water and baking soda, which can neutralize stomach acid.
· DIY Air Freshener – Baking Soda helps to freshen up the air. Mix it with essential oils and place it in a decorative jar for a homemade, natural air freshener.
· Gentle Exfoliant – Baking soda acts as an exfoliator, make a paste with water and use it as a gentle exfoliant for the face and body to be refreshed.
· Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner – Baking Soda serves for cleaning purposes too. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, let it sit, and then vacuum for a natural and effective cleansing.
· Fruit and Vegetable Wash – It helps to remove pesticides and harmful residues from fruits and vegetables by scrubbing them with a baking soda solution.
· Silver Polish – Baking Soda is used as a polishing agent. Creating a paste with baking soda and water and gently rubbing it onto silver items, gives a shiny look on substances.
· Laundry Booster – Enhance the cleaning power of your detergent by adding baking soda to your laundry load for brighter and fresher clothes.
· Foot Soak – Often, it is used to soothe tired feet by soaking them in warm water mixed with baking soda for a relaxing and refreshing experience.
· DIY Cleaning Scrub – Create an all-purpose cleaning scrub by combining baking soda with water, vinegar, or dish soap to tackle tough stains.
· Oil and Grease Remover – It absorbs oil and grease spills on garage floors or driveways by sprinkling baking soda and scrubbing with a brush.
· Bug Bite Relief – Make a paste with water and apply it to insect bites for soothing relief from itching and irritation.
· Unclog Drains – It clears drains by pouring baking soda followed by vinegar and hot water, a natural alternative to chemical drain cleaners.
· Athlete’s Foot Treatment – It helps to combat athlete’s foot by soaking feet in a baking soda solution, helping to neutralize fungus and reduce itching.
· Neutralize Fridge Odours – Even after cleaning, the refrigerator leaves some odour. One can keep the refrigerator smelling fresh by placing an open box of baking soda on a shelf.
· DIY Dishwasher Detergent – Create a natural dishwasher detergent by mixing baking soda, borax, and salt for spotless, chemical-free dishes.
While baking soda is generally safe, always test it on a small inconspicuous area before applying it to surfaces, and consult a doctor for any health-related concerns.
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