12 must-know baking soda hacks most skip

Garbage bins are notorious for harboring unpleasant odors, but baking soda can help keep them in check. Sprinkle about a quarter cup of baking soda at the bottom of your garbage bin before placing a new bag. The baking soda will absorb and neutralize odors, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.

For an added boost, mix baking soda with a few drops of your favorite essential oil before sprinkling it in the bin. This will not only absorb odors but also leave a pleasant scent.

Grout can become discolored over time, making your tiles look dirty even after cleaning. To whiten grout, mix baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste directly onto the grout lines using an old toothbrush or a small brush. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the baking soda to break down stains.

After the waiting period, scrub the grout lines with the brush, then rinse with warm water. For stubborn stains, add a bit of vinegar to the baking soda paste to enhance its cleaning power.

Insect bites can be itchy and uncomfortable, but a simple baking soda paste can provide relief. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to create a thick paste. Apply the mixture directly to the insect bite and let it dry.

The alkaline properties of baking soda help neutralize the pH of the skin, reducing itching and irritation. Reapply as needed to soothe the skin until the discomfort subsides.

Gym clothes and gear can develop an odor over time, even after washing. To freshen them up, add half a cup of baking soda to your laundry load along with your regular detergent. The baking soda will help neutralize odors and keep your workout clothes smelling fresh.

For particularly smelly items, soak them in a solution of water and one cup of baking soda for about 30 minutes before washing. This pre-treatment will help eliminate persistent odors and bacteria.

Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh and damaging to pipes, but baking soda offers a natural alternative. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the clogged drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, helping to break down the clog.

Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, then flush the drain with boiling water. This method is effective for minor clogs and regular maintenance to keep your drains flowing freely.

To keep your fresh flowers looking vibrant for longer, add a teaspoon of baking soda to the vase water. Baking soda helps regulate the pH level of the water, which can slow down the wilting process and keep flowers fresh.

Change the water every few days, adding a fresh teaspoon of baking soda each time, to extend the life of your bouquet and enjoy beautiful blooms for longer.

Burnt residue on pots and pans can be tough to clean, but baking soda can make the job easier. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the burnt area, then add enough water to cover the bottom of the pan.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove it from heat and let it cool. The burnt residue should loosen, making it easier to scrub away with a non-abrasive sponge.

A box of baking soda in the fridge is a classic trick for a reason. Baking soda absorbs and neutralizes odors, keeping your fridge smelling fresh. Simply open a box of baking soda and place it on a shelf in the fridge.

Replace the box every three months for maximum effectiveness. For an extra boost, add a few drops of vanilla extract to the baking soda to enhance its odor-neutralizing power.

To restore the shine to tarnished silverware, create a paste using three parts baking soda and one part water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to rub the paste onto the silverware, covering all tarnished areas.

Rinse the silverware thoroughly with warm water, then dry with a soft cloth. The gentle abrasive action of baking soda will remove tarnish without scratching the surface.

Coffee and tea stains can be stubborn, but baking soda can help lift them from cups and mugs. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto a damp sponge or cloth, then scrub the stained areas.

The mild abrasiveness of baking soda will help break down the stains without damaging the cup. Rinse thoroughly with water after cleaning, and enjoy your stain-free drinkware.

If you've spent too much time in the sun, a baking soda bath can provide relief for sunburned skin. Add half a cup of baking soda to a lukewarm bath, and soak for 15 to 20 minutes.

The baking soda will help soothe itching and irritation, while the cool water can reduce inflammation. Pat your skin dry gently after the bath to avoid further irritation.

Enhance the cleaning power of your laundry detergent by adding half a cup of baking soda to each load. Baking soda helps regulate the pH level in the wash, allowing your detergent to work more effectively.