15 Surprising Uses for Baking Soda That Go Beyond Baking

Baking soda is one of those ingredients I never let my kitchen run out of. Sure, I keep it on hand for muffins and cakes, but over the years I’ve discovered it’s just as useful outside the mixing bowl as it is inside. My pantry jar of baking soda has saved me from scrubbing disasters, helped me stretch fresh flowers a little longer, and even kept laundry from smelling stale. It’s such a simple ingredient, yet it quietly does the work of half a dozen specialty products. These 15 surprising uses for baking soda go far beyond baking and might just change how you look at this everyday staple.

Natural Deodorizer

Baking soda is a natural odor absorber, which makes it perfect for keeping small spaces fresh. Place an open dish of baking soda in your fridge, pantry, or even the bathroom to neutralize lingering smells. The powder traps odors rather than just masking them, so the space truly smells cleaner. Swap out the dish every month for best results.

Stain Remover

Tough stains on clothes can be lifted with a simple paste of baking soda and water. Rub the paste gently onto the spot and let it sit for 30 minutes before tossing the item into the wash. It works especially well on grease and food stains, giving your detergent a boost. For set-in stains, try repeating the process a second time.

Gentle Exfoliator

Forget expensive scrubs, baking soda can double as a simple exfoliant. Mix a small amount with water to form a paste, then rub gently on hands, elbows, or feet. It sloughs away dry skin without harsh chemicals and leaves your skin feeling soft. Just be sure to use a light touch so you don’t irritate the skin.

Teeth Whitener

Baking soda has been used for generations to brighten smiles. A tiny sprinkle on a wet toothbrush can help polish away surface stains. It’s especially handy if you’ve had too much coffee or red wine. Use sparingly, once or twice a week, so it doesn’t wear down enamel.

Oven Cleaner

Ovens are notorious for baked-on messes, but baking soda makes them much easier to clean. Spread a paste of baking soda and water over greasy spots, let it sit overnight, then wipe away with a damp cloth. The buildup lifts without harsh fumes or endless scrubbing. You’ll have a cleaner oven without that chemical smell filling the kitchen.

Carpet Refresher

Sprinkle baking soda liberally over your carpets and rugs before vacuuming. It helps neutralize odors trapped in the fibers and gives the whole room a fresher feel. For high-traffic areas or pet spots, let the baking soda sit for 15-20 minutes before vacuuming it up. It’s an easy way to extend time between professional cleanings.

Drain Unclogger

When your sink starts draining slowly, baking soda is a good first line of defense. Pour half a cup down the drain, followed by vinegar, and let the fizzing action work for a few minutes. Flush with hot water to clear away minor clogs. It’s a much gentler option than commercial drain cleaners.

Natural Deodorant

If you prefer to avoid store-bought deodorants, baking soda can help. A pinch dabbed under your arms absorbs sweat and odor naturally. You can also mix it with coconut oil or essential oils for a simple DIY deodorant. It’s a budget-friendly option that actually works.

Laundry Freshener

Adding half a cup of baking soda to your laundry load keeps clothes smelling fresh. It works alongside your detergent to cut odors and brighten fabrics. This trick is especially useful for workout clothes or towels that tend to hold on to smells. You’ll notice the difference right away when folding warm, clean laundry.

Silverware Polish

Tarnished silverware can shine again with baking soda. Mix it with a little water to create a paste, rub it onto your utensils, and rinse clean. It lifts the dullness without using harsh chemicals. Perfect for making family heirlooms sparkle before holiday dinners or gatherings.

Garbage Odor Control

Trash cans can develop a strong odor, but baking soda helps keep them under control. Sprinkle some into the bottom of the bin before adding a bag, or directly on top of smelly garbage. It neutralizes odors before they spread through the kitchen. Replace with a fresh sprinkle each time you take out the trash.

Keep Flowers Fresh

Extend the life of cut flowers with a teaspoon of baking soda added to the vase water. It helps balance the water and slows bacterial growth. Your bouquet will stay vibrant for days longer. This is one of my favorite little tricks for making grocery store flowers feel special.

Remove Crayon Marks

If your walls have become a canvas for crayon art, baking soda can help. Dampen a cloth, dip it in baking soda, and gently rub the marks away. The powder lifts the wax without stripping paint. It’s a lifesaver for busy households with kids.

Freshen Pet Bedding

Pet beds can get musty over time, but baking soda keeps them fresher between washes. Sprinkle it generously over the bedding, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then vacuum it up. It neutralizes odors without introducing chemicals near your pets. Your furry friend will appreciate the clean space.

Refresh Old Books

Old books sometimes come with a musty smell, especially if they’ve been in storage. Place them in a sealed container with an open box of baking soda for a few days. The powder absorbs the odor and leaves your books smelling fresher. It’s a gentle fix that doesn’t damage the pages.

Your Turn

I can’t tell you how many times baking soda has saved me, from kitchen messes to keeping the house smelling fresh. It’s one of those humble ingredients that quietly does more than we ever expect. Now I reach for that jar almost as often for cleaning as I do for baking, and I love knowing I can rely on it in so many ways.

If you try any of these tricks, I’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite. Drop a comment below or share your own baking soda tip. I’m always looking for new ideas to add to my list.