Baking soda is one of those simple household staples that can do much more than help cakes rise.
Also known as sodium bicarbonate, this inexpensive powder has mild abrasive and odor-neutralizing properties that make it useful for a variety of household tasks. Some people also use it as part of their personal-care routines.
But there’s an important distinction between a useful household hack and a scientifically proven health treatment. Baking soda isn’t a cure-all, and using it incorrectly—especially on the skin or teeth—can cause irritation.
Here are 15 practical ways you can use baking soda around your home and in everyday personal care.
1. Freshen Smelly Shoes
Shoes can develop unpleasant odors when sweat and moisture accumulate.
Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside dry shoes and leave it for several hours or overnight. Shake or vacuum it out before wearing them.
2. Deodorize the Refrigerator
Baking soda is commonly used to help control unpleasant refrigerator odors.
Place some baking soda in an open container inside the refrigerator and replace it periodically.
Remember that baking soda helps with odors—it doesn’t replace cleaning spoiled food or spills.
3. Freshen Carpets
For everyday household freshness, a light sprinkling of baking soda can help absorb odors from carpets.
Allow it to sit for a while before vacuuming thoroughly.
If you have pets or young children, make sure they don’t inhale or ingest loose powder.
4. Clean Kitchen Surfaces
Baking soda can act as a gentle abrasive for some hard surfaces.
Mix it with a little water to make a paste and use it on suitable surfaces to help remove grime.
Always test an inconspicuous area first, particularly on delicate or easily scratched materials.
5. Remove Odors From Food Containers
Plastic containers can sometimes hold onto strong food smells.
A baking soda paste or solution can help freshen them. Wash the container thoroughly afterward and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
6. Freshen Cutting Boards
Cutting boards can develop lingering food odors.
A small amount of baking soda can be used as part of the cleaning process for appropriate cutting-board materials. Proper washing and sanitation remain essential, particularly after preparing raw meat.
7. Clean a Smelly Sink
Sprinkling baking soda into a damp sink and gently scrubbing can help remove residue and odors.
For persistent drain odors, however, baking soda alone may not solve an underlying plumbing problem.
8. Add It to a Bath for Soothing Comfort
Some people add a small amount of baking soda to bathwater because it can feel soothing on the skin.
However, baking soda isn’t a treatment for skin diseases, infections, or serious irritation. Stop using it if it causes burning, dryness, or worsening irritation.
People with sensitive skin should be particularly cautious.
9. Use It as a Gentle Body Scrub—With Caution
Baking soda has a fine texture, so some people use it as a physical exfoliant.
But facial and body skin have a natural protective barrier, and baking soda is relatively alkaline. Frequent or vigorous use can cause dryness and irritation.
For facial skin, a properly formulated exfoliating product is generally a better choice.
10. Freshen Smelly Towels
If towels have developed a musty smell, washing them properly and allowing them to dry completely is the most important step.
Baking soda can sometimes be added to the wash as part of a household laundry routine, following the care instructions for the fabric and washing machine.
11. Deodorize Garbage Bins
Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into the bottom of a clean, dry garbage bin to help absorb odors.
It works best alongside regular emptying and cleaning rather than as a substitute for either.
12. Freshen Upholstery
For fabric upholstery that can safely be treated with dry powders, a light application of baking soda may help reduce odors.
Vacuum thoroughly afterward.
Always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions first.
13. Clean Some Bathroom Surfaces
Baking soda can help scrub soap residue and grime from certain bathroom surfaces.
Make a paste with water, gently scrub the appropriate surface, and rinse thoroughly.
Avoid using abrasive products on surfaces that can scratch easily.
14. Freshen Pet Areas
Baking soda can help control odors in some household areas used by pets.
However, don’t allow pets to ingest loose baking soda, and avoid putting large amounts directly on animals. For pet bedding and surfaces, follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions.
15. Help Remove Lingering Household Odors
From gym bags to closets and storage areas, baking soda can be useful for absorbing unpleasant smells.
Place some in an open container or breathable pouch where appropriate.
It’s a simple way to freshen an area without relying entirely on heavily scented products.
A Word About Baking Soda for Teeth
You may have heard that baking soda can whiten teeth.
Baking soda can help remove some surface stains because it is mildly abrasive. However, brushing aggressively or using abrasive powders too frequently can contribute to enamel wear or gum irritation.
If you’re concerned about tooth discoloration, talk with a dentist about safer whitening options.
What You Shouldn’t Do With Baking Soda
Despite its versatility, baking soda isn’t suitable for everything.
Avoid using it as a replacement for medical treatment, disinfectants, prescribed medications, or professional dental care.
Also be cautious about applying concentrated baking soda to sensitive or broken skin, using it frequently on the face, or consuming large amounts for supposed health benefits.
The Bottom Line
Baking soda is a remarkably versatile household ingredient. From freshening refrigerators and shoes to helping scrub certain surfaces, there are plenty of practical ways to put it to work.
The key is knowing its limits.
Use baking soda as a household helper—not as a miracle cure—and always consider the material or skin you’re applying it to before trying a new DIY hack.
Sometimes the simplest household ingredients can be useful, but simple doesn’t always mean suitable for every purpose.