Ingredients
- Baking soda
- Water, for making a paste when appropriate
- A small bowl or cup for mixing
- A soft sponge or clean cloth
- A soft-bristled brush for suitable, durable surfaces
- A spoon for measuring or spreading
- A small, stable, open container for odor freshening
- Clean water for rinsing
- A towel for drying
- Optional: a vacuum with a suitable upholstery attachment
Instructions
- Freshen a refrigerator by putting baking soda in a stable, open container on a refrigerator shelf.
- Deodorize a trash can by sprinkling a small amount of baking soda in the bottom after cleaning.
- Reduce odors in a lunch box by sprinkling a little baking soda inside, then wiping or vacuuming it out before packing food.
- Freshen a sink drain by sprinkling baking soda around the drain opening and rinsing well.
- Clean a sturdy sink by making a thin paste with water and using a soft sponge on the surface.
- Lift light grime from a stovetop by using a damp cloth and a small amount of paste on a compatible surface.
- Help loosen residue from cookware by soaking it in warm water before gentle cleaning.
- Freshen inside a microwave by wiping the cool interior with a damp cloth and a little baking soda paste.
- Deodorize a cutting board by sprinkling baking soda over the surface and rinsing thoroughly.
- Freshen a dishwasher by wiping the interior with a damp cloth and a little baking soda, then rinsing it away.
- Help with a smelly sponge by soaking it in a solution of water and baking soda, then rinsing it.
- Freshen a reusable water bottle using baking soda with warm water, then washing and rinsing thoroughly.
- Reduce odors in a cooler by leaving an open container of baking soda inside while it is stored.
- Freshen shoes by sprinkling a small amount inside, leaving it for a while, then shaking or vacuuming it out.
- Deodorize a gym bag by placing baking soda in a breathable sachet or small open container inside the empty bag.
- Freshen a closet or storage box by setting an open container in a stable spot away from fabrics.
- Help freshen a washable rug by applying a light dusting of baking soda, leaving it briefly, and vacuuming thoroughly.
- Treat a small spill on a suitable carpet by blotting it first and then using a small amount of baking soda after it is mostly dry.
- Freshen a pet bed by cleaning it according to the manufacturer's washing directions and vacuuming out any baking soda.
- Help with laundry odors by following the garment-care label and using a small amount of baking soda if permitted.
Notes
Always check the care instructions for the item you are cleaning, test an inconspicuous spot first, and avoid using baking soda on delicate or easily scratched surfaces.
