We here at SNAP-Ed love to save money from our everyday expenses without sacrificing our everyday needs. Finding ways to make our money stretch for ourselves and our families can sometimes feel like a challenge. Today we want to look more into the common and not so common uses of baking soda. By incorporating multiple uses for this household staple item, we can find ways to not only save money but also be creative while doing so.
Baking Soda with Food
Use Baking Soda in Baked Goods
Baking soda is a staple item that can typically be found at any supermarket in the baking aisle. For baking purposes, baking soda can be used as a leavening agent in baking recipes. This means the baking soda works by producing and trapping air in batters and doughs, which then expands the food and makes for light fluffy baked goods. To use baking soda as a leavening agent in your recipe, add ¼ teaspoon per each cup of flour. Follow your recipe as normal.
Using Baking Soda as a Meat Tenderizer
Baking soda can be used as a tenderizer for meat and poultry, and it can aid in making more robust flavors and softer textures. To use baking soda as a meat tenderizer add one teaspoon of baking soda and a ½ cup of water to every 12 ounces of meat. Let the meat soak for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator. Carefully rinse the meat to rid it of as much baking soda as possible. Be sure to clean your sink thoroughly after rinsing to prevent the spread of foodborne illness. Proceed with cooking as desired.
Neutralizing Acidic Foods with Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used to neutralize acidic foods without impacting texture or overall flavor. By adding ¼ teaspoon to the food and mixing thoroughly you will reduce the excess acidity and enjoy more balanced flavors.
Using Baking Soda for Cleaning
Baking soda is a multi-purpose cleaning agent that can be used for a variety of needs. Baking soda combined with dish soap creates a paste that’s great for scrubbing away soap scum and grime. To use baking soda as a soap scrub, mix ½ cup of baking soda with ½ cup of dish soap in a bowl. Stir in a few tablespoons of water until a paste forms. Use a sponge or brush to spread the paste and scrub any surfaces. Rinse thoroughly to remove paste and residue.
Using Baking Soda in Your Wash Cycle
Baking soda can be used for deodorizing and softening clothes. To use baking soda in your laundry cycle, place your clothes in the washer, add ½ cup of baking soda directly to the washing machine’s tub, add your usual detergent, and run your wash cycle as normal.
Removing Mattress Stains with Baking Soda
When was the last time you cleaned your mattress? Baking soda can help with that. By combining one cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide, three tablespoons of baking soda and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle you have created a stain remover that can be sprayed liberally over the stained area. Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes. Then gently scrub and blot the area with a clean damp cloth. Allow the mattress to air dry completely before adding bedsheets. Note that the drying process can be long so you may want to start this early in the morning to have a dry mattress when you go to sleep.
Cleaning Fruits and Vegetables with Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used to create a cleaning solution for fruits and vegetables. To clean fruit and vegetables from dirt, wax, and some pesticide residues, soak the fruits and vegetables in a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda per two cups of cold water for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly under running water.
Baking Soda for Wellness
Baking Soda as a Mouthwash Rinse
Did you know that baking soda can be used for wellness purposes? It can be used to make a simple mouthwash rinse. To prepare a basic rinse add ½ teaspoon of baking soda to one cup of warm water. Swish the mixture in your mouth for 30-60 seconds and then spit it out. To give it some flavor, add a few drops of an essential oil such as peppermint. Be sure to spit and rinse thoroughly as essential oils are not safe to consume.
Baking Soda Used as a Toothpaste
Baking soda can also be used as a toothpaste. By using equal parts baking soda and equal parts water you can create a paste to use with a soft bristled brush. Use the paste as you would any other toothpaste and brush for two minutes in a circular motion. Rinse thoroughly with water. Baking soda toothpaste can be used two to three times a week if there is no gum or tooth sensitivity. If you have dental issues, be sure to consult with a dental professional before making any changes.
Other Uses for Baking Soda
There are over a hundred uses for baking soda. Baking soda can be used to polish silver and brass. It can be used to reduce and neutralize odors from the kitchen, smoke, and mildew. Baking soda can be used in garbage pails and closets, cars, and bathrooms to freshen the air. With its multipurpose uses and economical cost, baking soda is an ideal staple item to purchase at your local grocery store and start using right away.
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