Ever buy a box of baking soda just so you could whip up a batch of your favorite cookies, only to have that box sit in your cabinet sans a single teaspoon, for months or even years? Sure it may have only cost you a couple of bucks, but it is taking up valuable space in your cabinet, and if you know what you're doing it could actually save you quite a few dollars on different things. I actually go through a box of bicarb every couple of months, I love to bake so it's used frequently for that, but I also use it for a lot of other things around the house since it's cheap and eco-friendly. Below you'll find a list of six of my favorite unexpected uses for baking soda, and why it's so great.
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To relieve diaper rash: Add two teaspoons to your baby's bath water. The baking soda will help to naturally soothe and relieve his irritated bottom.
To deodorize your fridge: Keep an open box of baking soda inside and replace it each month. The baking soda will absorb any nasty odors, keeping your refrigerator smelling nice and fresh.
To alleviate heartburn: Dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda into half a cup of water and drink up. It will act similarly to Alka-Seltzer and diminish symptoms of acid reflux. This is a great natural remedy when you're pregnant.
To clean your shower: Combine a quarter cup of baking soda with two tablespoons of dish soap and two tablespoons of white vinegar until a paste forms. Use exactly how you would the store-bought stuff. Tip: If you use a natural, plant-based dish soap, you'll have a completely green, non-toxic cleaner.
To clarify your hair: Pour your regular shampoo into your palm, sprinkle with a small amount of baking soda, and wash as usual. The baking soda will remove product residue and build up without having to buy a separate clarifying shampoo that would likely be full of unnecessary chemicals.
To unclog a drain: Without spending up to $10 on the commercial stuff, pour a pot of boiling water down your drain, followed by a half cup of baking soda. Let sit for a few minutes before flushing with a cup of white vinegar and a cup of very hot water. Let sit for another ten minutes then finish with another pot of boiling water. Voila! No more clog! And again, this is much safer than the harsh chemicals used in the store-bought bottles.
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