Bicarbonate of soda is one of the most versatile, budget-friendly, and eco-friendly cleaning products you can have at home. If you’re wondering how to use bicarbonate of soda for cleaning, you’re in the right place. This guide will show you simple ways to get started, what to avoid, and some helpful recipes to try.
How do I use bicarbonate of soda for cleaning?
Bicarbonate of soda is a gentle but effective cleaner for many areas of your home. You can:
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Freshen carpets: Sprinkle it on carpets, leave it for 30 minutes, then vacuum to remove odours.
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Clean sinks and drains: Pour some down the drain followed by hot water to clear minor blockages and deodorise.
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Scrub kitchen surfaces: Make a paste with water and use it to clean worktops, sinks, and ovens without harsh chemicals.
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Deodorise the fridge: Place an open box inside to absorb unwanted smells.
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Brighten laundry: Add it to your washing to boost detergent performance and soften fabrics.
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Remove stains: Use a paste to lift stains from fabric or hard surfaces, then rinse.
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Freshen upholstery: Sprinkle, let sit, then vacuum to remove smells and dirt.
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Clean bathroom tiles and tubs: Scrub away soap scum and grime naturally.
It’s safe, non-toxic, and affordable — perfect for anyone wanting to reduce chemicals and plastic in their home.
What is the ratio of sodium bicarbonate to water for cleaning?
For most cleaning jobs, a simple ratio works well:
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Basic paste: Mix about 3 parts bicarbonate of soda to 1 part water until you get a spreadable paste.
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Spray solution: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda in 1 cup (240 ml) of warm water. Put this in a spray bottle for easy cleaning of surfaces.
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Drain cleaner: Use ½ cup bicarbonate of soda followed by ½ cup vinegar, then rinse with hot water after fizzing stops.
Adjust the amounts depending on the size of the job. The paste is great for scrubbing tough stains, while the spray is handy for quick wipe-downs.
When should you not use bicarbonate of soda for cleaning?
While bicarbonate of soda is versatile, there are times to avoid it:
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Avoid on natural stone: Surfaces like marble, granite, and limestone can be damaged by its mildly abrasive nature.
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Not for aluminium or cast iron: It can cause dulling or corrosion on these metals.
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Avoid on delicate fabrics: It may be too harsh for silk, wool, or other fine textiles.
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Don’t mix directly with acids on surfaces: The fizzing reaction can be too strong and cause damage if not rinsed properly.
If in doubt, test a small, hidden area first.
What not to mix with baking soda when cleaning?
Some substances should not be mixed directly with bicarbonate of soda:
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Bleach: Mixing can release harmful chlorine gas.
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Ammonia: Creates irritating fumes and should never be combined.
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Strong acids directly: While vinegar reacts well when combined carefully, other acids may cause damage or excessive fizzing.
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Hydrogen peroxide: Can create a strong reaction; best to use separately and rinse between.
Always use bicarbonate of soda safely and separately from these chemicals.
What to mix with bicarbonate of soda for cleaning?
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To boost its cleaning power, mix bicarbonate of soda with:
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Vinegar: Creates a fizzing action that helps break down grime and unblock drains.
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Lemon juice: Adds fresh scent and extra grease-cutting ability.
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Essential oils: Add a few drops for fragrance and antibacterial benefits (like tea tree or lavender).
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Water: To make a gentle paste or spray for daily cleaning.
These simple additions make bicarbonate of soda even more versatile.
What do vinegar and bicarbonate of soda make for cleaning?
When vinegar and bicarbonate of soda combine, they create a fizzing chemical reaction. This helps loosen dirt and unblock drains. It’s excellent for:
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Removing soap scum: Use the fizz to lift residues on tubs, tiles, and shower doors.
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Refreshing garbage disposals: The reaction helps clean and deodorise.
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Loosening stuck-on dirt: The fizz can help lift stubborn grime on surfaces.
Remember to rinse well afterwards — the fizz does the work, but you don’t want leftover residue.
Cleaning Recipes with Bicarbonate of Soda
Want to make your own cleaning products? Here are a few simple recipes to try:
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All-Purpose Scrub
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½ cup bicarbonate of soda
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10 drops essential oil
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Water (just enough to make a paste)
Use on sinks, tiles, bathtubs, and more.
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Carpet Deodoriser
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1 cup bicarbonate of soda
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15 drops lavender or lemon essential oil
Shake onto carpets, leave for 30 minutes, then vacuum.
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Toilet Bombs
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1 cup bicarbonate of soda
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¼ cup citric acid
A few drops of water + essential oils
Mix until it holds together, press into silicone moulds, and let dry overnight. Drop one in the loo whenever it needs a refresh.
Eco Wins – Why This Simple Powder Is a Game Changer
The cleaning aisle can be overwhelming, filled with lots of products that promise a lot but often come with too much plastic, waste, and confusing ingredients. Bicarbonate of soda cuts through all that.
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Less plastic waste: One recyclable box can replace dozens of different cleaning products.
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Saves you money: No need to buy a separate cleaner for every job.
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Feel confident: You know exactly what’s going into your home and on your surfaces — no hidden chemicals.
Using bicarbonate of soda isn’t just about cleaning well; it’s about feeling smart, capable, and in control of your home and health.
Conclusion
Bicarbonate of soda is proof that simple works. It helps you clean your home, save money, and reduce waste — all without harsh chemicals or overwhelm.
Why not pick one new use and try it this week? Once you start, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
How to Use Bicarbonate of Soda for Cleaning | Re:gn
