I have started keeping a clean glass Parmesan cheese dispenser by my bathroom and kitchen sink filled with baking soda. Great for a quick scrub for the sink, etc. I also sprinkle it on my toothpaste and sprinkle into my facial cleanser before I apply it (goodbye expensive exfoliators!). I also sprinkle a bit at the bottom of my wicker hamper and trash can to absorb odors. In the kitchen I also use it to clean cutting boards and my garbage disposal. As you can see, I chose to decorate mine with a vintage decal (it is a 4-C Parmesan jar, by the way, but any large holed jar would work). You can snazz it up however you like to fit your own decor! If you want to put a sticker on it - there are so many gorgeous ones in the scrapbooking department, just put a bit of clear packing tape over it to keep the water out. Not bad for a free jar, and good golly Miss Molly, baking soda is about 50 cents, and non-toxic.
By Carol
For gas can spills in the car, wipe up as much as you can then generously sprinkle baking soda over the spill. Leave overnight (or two days) then sweep away. Soaks up the gas and the smell!
Editor's Note: Do not use a vacuum to remove the gasoline saturated baking soda. This could start a fire.
By Kelli
Using a large cookie sheet and spread a box of baking soda on it. Put it in the oven at 400 degrees F for 1 hour. Let it cool and you have your own washing soda for much cheaper.
By coville123
How do I use baking soda in cleaning kitchen appliances?
By Ron from Blanco, NM
I make a baking powder paste by mixing 1/2 cup of powder with 1/4 cup warm water.. then using a damp face cloth take the paste and clean. I always rinse with hot water with a squeeze of lemon or lemon juice in it.
Baking soda is one of the most versatile substances you can have in your home. It makes a wonderful mild abrasive for surfaces that you want to be careful not to scratch. Just make a paste of baking soda with water. You can use it instead of Comet or other abrasive cleaners for cleaning bathroom fixtures. It works well for cleaning spots off chrome and stainless steel.
It can be added to your laundry as a booster (1/2 cup should work) to help clean really dirty clothing or fight odors. Baking soda can be purchased in the baking section at your grocery store. Look for two pound boxes or bags at big box stores to save money and have plenty of it around.
A cup in your smelliest, grungy wash and your clothes will come out fresh and soft! Makes sinks and tubs sparkling clean. A half cup in a bucket of hot water will get the inside of your fridge fresh as the day you bought it. Give it a try, and best of all, it's inexpensive! (05/22/2009)
By Dr. O