Why This Simple Trick Works
Ever find yourself staring at your cabinet full of cleaning sprays, wondering why you need a different bottle for the kitchen counter, the bathroom sink, and the inside of the fridge? Here’s a secret: you don’t. Baking soda—yes, the same box you keep in your pantry for cookies or to keep the fridge fresh—can do the heavy lifting.
When turned into a cleaning solution, it becomes a gentle yet powerful all-purpose cleaner that’s safe, cheap, and effective. No harsh chemicals. No eye-watering fumes. Just old-fashioned science doing its thing.
The Science-y Bit (Made Simple)
So, what makes baking soda so special? Think of it like a triple threat:
- Abrasive power – it’s gritty enough to scrub without scratching.
- Deodorizer – it neutralizes odors instead of just masking them.
- Alkalinity – it cuts through grease and grime.
In liquid form (aka a cleaning solution), baking soda is easy to spray, wipe, or soak with—perfect for day-to-day messes.
What You’ll Need
Before you run to the store, peek in your kitchen. Chances are, you already have everything:
- Baking soda (½ cup to start with)
- Warm water (about 3–4 cups)
- A spray bottle or jar
- Optional: a splash of vinegar for extra degreasing
- Optional: a few drops of essential oil (lemon, tea tree, or lavender) for a fresh scent
Pretty straightforward, right? No exotic ingredients, no complicated prep.
Step-by-Step: Mixing Your Solution
Here’s how to bring it all together:
- Grab a clean spray bottle or jar.
- Pour in ½ cup baking soda.
- Add 3–4 cups warm water (warm water helps dissolve it faster).
- Stir or shake until the baking soda is fully dissolved.
- Optional: Add 1–2 tablespoons of vinegar for greasy messes or 5 drops of essential oil for a nice scent.
That’s it—you just made your own multi-purpose cleaner in less time than it takes to scroll through social media.
How to Use It (Practical Examples)
Now for the fun part—testing it out. Imagine these scenarios:
- Kitchen counters: Spray and wipe for a grease-free, odor-free finish.
- Inside the fridge: Use it to wipe down shelves without leaving chemical smells near your food.
- Microwave messes: Spray inside, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe out stuck-on splatters.
- Bathroom sink & faucet: Cuts through toothpaste gunk and water spots.
- Trash bins: Rinse with the solution to keep odors in check.
Basically, if it’s grimy, your baking soda solution probably has it covered.
Things to Keep in Mind
Like any cleaner, there are a few places where you should skip this one:
- Natural stone (like marble or granite) – the alkalinity can damage the seal.
- Electronics – liquids and circuits don’t mix, ever.
- Waxed or delicate surfaces – it may dull the finish.
When in doubt, do a quick spot test first.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Store the solution in a spray bottle for easy reach.
- Shake before each use—baking soda can settle at the bottom.
- For extra scrubbing power, sprinkle dry baking soda directly onto tough spots and spray the solution over it.
- Make small batches—it’s best fresh and loses oomph if it sits for weeks.
Simple, Cheap, and Seriously Effective
And there you have it—a baking soda cleaning solution that’s easy to whip up, safe to use, and surprisingly versatile. No overpriced sprays, no harsh chemicals, no stress. Just one pantry staple doing the job of half your cleaning cabinet.
Next time you’re faced with a sticky stovetop or a funky-smelling fridge, skip the store-bought sprays and grab your DIY solution instead. Trust me, once you start, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.