Are you looking for a natural, effective, and affordable way to keep your home sparkling clean? Look no further than your kitchen pantry! Baking soda and vinegar are two versatile ingredients that, when combined, create a powerful cleaning solution. In addition, they are also budget-conscious and safe for households with children and pets. In this article, we’ll explore 30 ways to use Baking soda and vinegar for cleaning.
The Science Behind Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile ingredient that acts as a mild abrasive and deodorizer. It effectively cuts through grease, grime, and stains, making it a popular choice for various cleaning tasks.
Vinegar, on the other hand, is a natural acid that has antibacterial properties and is excellent for removing odors. When combined, baking soda and vinegar create a powerful cleaning solution that can tackle even the toughest cleaning challenges.
When baking soda and vinegar mix, they create a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and acetate ions. This reaction causes the mixture to foam up. This can help dislodge dirt and grime, making it easier to clean surfaces and unclog drains.
30 Ways to Use Baking Soda and Vinegar for Cleaning
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore the various ways you can use baking soda and vinegar to clean your home.
Kitchen Cleaning Hacks
1. Freshen Smelly Drains
We’ve all experienced that moment of dread when a funky odor wafts up from the kitchen sink. Fear not! The solution is simple and effective.
Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. The resulting fizzy reaction is not just fun to watch; it’s actively breaking down odor-causing bacteria and food particles.
Let the mixture work its magic for about 5 minutes, then flush with hot water. For stubborn odors, repeat the process or leave the mixture overnight before rinsing.
2. Deodorize the Refrigerator
A smelly fridge can turn anyone’s stomach. Keep your refrigerator smelling fresh by placing an open box of baking soda inside. The baking soda acts as a natural odor absorber, neutralizing strong food smells. For best results, replace the box every three months.
For a deep clean and to tackle stubborn odors, remove all items from your fridge and wipe down the interior with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar.
This not only eliminates odors but also disinfects surfaces. Don’t forget to clean the rubber seals around the door, where mold and bacteria often lurk.
3. Clean the Microwave
Splattered sauce and exploded leftovers can leave your microwave looking like a crime scene. Here’s an effortless way to clean it: Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, allowing the steam to loosen stuck-on food particles. Carefully remove the hot bowl and wipe the interior clean with a damp cloth.
For stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply this to problem areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean. The mild abrasiveness of baking soda helps to scrub away tough grime without scratching surfaces.
4. Shine Stainless Steel Appliances
Fingerprints and water spots can quickly dull the shine of stainless steel appliances. Restore their gleam with this simple method: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.
Gently rub this onto appliances using a soft cloth, moving in the direction of the grain. Rinse the surface with a cloth dampened with vinegar for a streak-free shine. The acidity of the vinegar helps to remove any residue and leaves a brilliant finish.
5. Descale the Coffee Maker
If your morning brew doesn’t taste quite right, mineral buildup in your coffee maker could be the culprit. Describe your machine naturally by running a cycle with equal water and white vinegar. The vinegar’s acidity effectively dissolves mineral deposits. This can improve your coffee’s taste and extend your machine’s life.
After the vinegar cycle, run two cycles of plain water to rinse thoroughly. Your coffee maker will be clean, your coffee will taste better, and you’ll have done it all without harsh chemicals.
6. Clean the Dishwasher
It might seem counterintuitive that a machine designed for cleaning needs cleaning itself, but dishwashers can accumulate food particles, soap scum, and mineral deposits over time.
Keep yours in top shape with this simple process: Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the empty dishwasher, then place a cup of vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack. Run an empty cycle using the hottest water setting.
The baking soda scrubs and deodorizes while the vinegar disinfects and removes hard water deposits. This combo will leave your dishwasher fresh, clean, and ready to tackle your dirtiest dishes.
Bathroom Brilliance
7. Scrub the Toilet Bowl
Nobody enjoys cleaning the toilet, but with baking soda and vinegar, the task becomes much easier and more effective. Start by flushing the toilet to wet the sides of the bowl. Sprinkle baking soda liberally around the inside of the bowl, making sure to cover the rim and under it as well. Then, spray white vinegar over the baking soda.
As the mixture fizzes, it’s actively breaking down stains and killing bacteria. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before scrubbing it with a toilet brush.
For tough stains, you may need to repeat the process or let the mixture sit longer. Flush to rinse, and you’ll be left with a sparkling clean, fresh-smelling toilet.
8. Clean Shower Heads
Over time, mineral deposits can clog shower head nozzles, reducing water flow and pressure.
Restore your shower’s performance with this simple overnight treatment. Fill a plastic bag with white vinegar and secure it over the shower head with a rubber band, making sure the nozzles are submerged. Leave it overnight, then remove the bag and rinse the shower head thoroughly.
For extra cleaning power, you can use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away any loosened deposits. Your shower will feel like new, and you’ll save water by improving its efficiency.
9. Shine Bathroom Fixtures
Hard water stains and soap scum can quickly dull the shine of your bathroom fixtures. Bring back their luster with the power of vinegar.
Simply wipe down faucets, handles, and other metal fixtures with a cloth dampened with white vinegar. The acidity of the vinegar cuts through mineral deposits and soap residue.
For extra shine, buff dry with a soft, clean cloth. This method is particularly effective on chrome fixtures, leaving them streak-free and sparkling. For fixtures with stubborn buildup, wrap them in a vinegar-soaked cloth for an hour before wiping them clean.
10. Unclog Drains
Slow-moving drains are a common bathroom nuisance. However, Harsh chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and are harmful to the environment. So you can try baking soda and vinegar.
Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda directly into the drain, followed immediately by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Quickly cover the drain with a wet cloth to contain the reaction.
The fizzing action helps to break down hair, soap scum, and other organic matter causing the clog. Wait about 5 minutes, then flush with hot water. For stubborn clogs, you may need to repeat the process or leave the mixture in the drain overnight before flushing.
Living Area Refresh
11. Deodorize Carpets and Upholstery
Carpets and upholstered furniture can trap odors, making your living space smell less than fresh. Baking soda is a powerful natural deodorizer that can help.
Sprinkle baking soda liberally over carpets or upholstery, working it into the fibers with a soft brush if possible. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes – or overnight for strong odors – then vacuum thoroughly.
The baking soda absorbs odors and moisture, leaving your soft surfaces smelling clean and fresh. This method is particularly effective for pet odors and can be used regularly as part of your cleaning routine.
12. Clean Windows and Mirrors
Streaky windows and mirrors can be a real eyesore, but achieving streak-free clarity is simple with vinegar. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
Spray the solution onto windows or mirrors and wipe clean with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. For best results, use a microfiber cloth, which leaves no lint behind.
The acidity of the vinegar cuts through dirt and grime, while also evaporating quickly to prevent streaks. For outdoor windows with heavy grime, add a few drops of liquid dish soap to your vinegar solution for extra cleaning power.
13. Refresh Mattresses
We spend a third of our lives in bed, so keeping our mattresses clean and fresh is essential. Between deep cleans, use baking soda to deodorize and freshen your mattress.
Strip the bed and sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress. For added freshness, you can mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil into the baking soda before sprinkling.
Let the baking soda sit for several hours – or even better, all day while you’re at work. The longer it sits, the more odors and moisture it will absorb. Vacuum thoroughly using the upholstery attachment, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Your mattress will smell fresher, and you might even sleep better!
14. Polish Wood Furniture
Commercial furniture polishes often contain silicone oil. This can build up over time and attract dust for a natural alternative that nourishes wood and leaves a beautiful shine.
Mix 1/4 cup white vinegar with 3/4 cup olive oil. Apply a small amount of the mixture to a soft cloth and rub it into the wood, following the direction of the grain.
The vinegar helps to clean the surface while the olive oil conditions the wood. Buff with a clean, dry cloth for extra shine. This method works well on both finished and unfinished wood, leaving your furniture looking refreshed and well cared for.
Laundry and Fabric Care
15. Boost Laundry Detergent
Make your laundry routine more effective by harnessing the power of baking soda. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your wash cycle along with your regular detergent.
The baking soda helps to balance the pH of the water, making your detergent work more efficiently. It also helps to soften hard water, reduce odors, and brighten colors.
For extra-smelly loads (think gym clothes or work uniforms), you can increase the amount of baking soda to 1 cup. Your clothes will come out cleaner, brighter, and fresher-smelling.
16. Remove Tough Stains
Stubborn stains on clothing can be frustrating, but baking soda can come to the rescue. Make a paste with baking soda and a small amount of water. Apply this directly to the stain and gently work it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft brush. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before washing as usual.
The mild abrasiveness of baking soda helps to lift the stain from the fabric fibers. Its absorbent nature draws out oil and grease. This method is particularly effective on grease stains, sweat stains, and even red wine spills.
17. Freshen Smelly Shoes
No one likes stinky shoes, but harsh chemical deodorizers can be overwhelming. For a natural solution, reach for the baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight.
The baking soda will absorb moisture and neutralize odors. In the morning, simply shake out the excess.
For extra-smelly shoes, you can place them in a plastic bag with baking soda to contain the powder and increase its effectiveness. Your shoes will smell fresh and be ready to wear.
18. Soften Fabrics Naturally
Commercial fabric softeners can leave a waxy buildup on clothes and may irritate sensitive skin. For a natural alternative, add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to your washing machine’s rinse cycle. The vinegar helps to remove soap residue from clothes, leaving them softer and reducing static cling.
Don’t worry about the smell – the vinegar odor dissipates as the clothes dry, leaving no scent behind. This method is particularly beneficial for towels, as it helps to restore their absorbency which can be diminished by waxy softeners.
Outdoor and Miscellaneous Cleaning
19. Clean Patio Furniture
Outdoor furniture can quickly accumulate dirt, pollen, and grime. Prepare your patio for entertaining with this simple cleaning solution: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution liberally on your patio furniture and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
For stubborn dirt, let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping. The acidity of the vinegar helps to break down grime and kill mold and mildew. For wooden furniture, follow up with a light coating of mineral oil to protect the wood from moisture.
20. Remove Mildew from Siding
Mildew on your home’s exterior not only looks unsightly but can also damage the siding over time. Create a cleaning solution by mixing 1/4 cup baking soda with 1 quart of warm water. Apply this to the affected areas with a soft brush, working in a circular motion to lift the mildew.
Rinse thoroughly with a hose, starting from the top and working your way down. For stubborn areas, you may need to let the solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. This method is gentle enough for most siding materials and won’t harm nearby plants.
21. Clean Garden Tools
Well-maintained garden tools not only last longer but also perform better. To remove rust and caked-on dirt from metal tools, soak them in undiluted white vinegar for a few hours.
The acidity of the vinegar will dissolve rust and loosen dirt. After soaking, scrub the tools with a wire brush if needed, then rinse thoroughly and dry completely to prevent new rust from forming.
For wooden handles, rub them with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and linseed oil to clean and condition the wood, protecting it from drying and cracking.
22. Freshen Trash Cans
Even with regular bag changes, trash cans can develop unpleasant odors. Keep them fresh by sprinkling baking soda in the bottom of the can before inserting a new bag. The baking soda will absorb odors and liquids that might leak from the bag.
For a deeper clean, wash the can with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar, then sprinkle with baking soda before use. You can also place a vinegar-soaked paper towel in the bottom of the can to continually absorb odors between cleanings.
23. Clean Grout Lines
Dirty grout can make even the cleanest tiles look grimy. Restore your grout to its original color with this simple method: Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply this paste to the grout lines using an old toothbrush or grout brush. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently.
For extra cleaning power, spray the baking soda paste with vinegar before scrubbing – the fizzing action will help lift dirt and stains. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. For particularly stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process or let the paste sit longer before scrubbing.
24. Deodorize Pet Bedding
Pet beds can quickly become smelly, but harsh detergents might irritate your furry friend’s skin. For a natural refresh, sprinkle baking soda liberally over pet beds and let it sit for at least 15 minutes before vacuuming thoroughly. The baking soda will absorb odors and moisture.
For machine-washable pet items, add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle. This helps to remove soap residue, soften fabrics, and eliminate odors. The vinegar smell will dissipate as the items dry, leaving bedding fresh and clean without any overwhelming fragrances that might bother your pet.
More Cleaning Magic
25. Revive Stainless Steel Cookware
Over time, stainless steel pots and pans can develop stubborn stains and discoloration. Bring back their shine with this simple method: Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply this paste to the stained areas and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
Next, pour a small amount of white vinegar over the baking soda paste. The mixture will fizz, helping to lift the stains. Scrub gently with a soft sponge or cloth, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
For particularly stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process. This method not only cleans but also helps to remove any lingering food odors from your cookware.
26. Clean and Deodorize the Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal works hard, and over time it can develop unpleasant odors and buildup. Here’s how to freshen it naturally: Start by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda down the disposal, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The mixture will foam up – let it sit for about 10 minutes.
During this time, boil a kettle of water. After the 10 minutes are up, pour the boiling water down the disposal to rinse. For extra freshness and cleaning power, grind up a few lemon or lime peels in the disposal afterward. This process deodorizes, disinfects, and helps to remove any stubborn gunk clinging to the disposal blades.
27. Restore Shower Curtains
Shower curtains and liners can quickly accumulate soap scum, mildew, and stains. Instead of replacing them, try this cleaning method: Remove the curtain or liner and place it in your washing machine. Add your regular detergent along with 1 cup of white vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda.
Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water. The baking soda and vinegar work together to remove stains and odors, while also preventing mildew growth. Hang the curtain to dry immediately after washing. This method not only cleans but also helps to extend the life of your shower curtains.
28. Clean Outdoor Grill Grates
A dirty grill can affect the taste of your food and pose health risks. Clean your grill grates effectively with this natural method: Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of water to create a paste. Apply this paste to the grill grates and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
For extra cleaning power, spray the paste with white vinegar, causing it to foam. The foaming action helps to lift stubborn, baked-on food particles.
You can scrub the grates with a grill brush or crumpled aluminum foil, then rinse thoroughly with water. This method is safe for all types of grill grates and leaves them clean without harsh chemical residues.
29. Refresh Tupperware and Plastic Containers
Plastic food containers often retain odors and stains from strong-smelling or colorful foods. Restore them with this simple process: Fill the container with warm water and add 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Let this solution sit overnight. In the morning, add a splash of white vinegar – it will fizz, helping to lift stains and odors.
Wash the container as usual and dry thoroughly. For stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stained areas, and let it sit for a few hours before washing. This method not only cleans but also helps to remove lingering food odors.
30. Clean and Shine Leather Furniture
Leather furniture can accumulate dirt and grime over time, dulling its appearance. Here’s a gentle way to clean and restore its luster: Mix equal parts white vinegar and boiled linseed oil in a spray bottle. Shake well to combine. Spray a small amount onto a soft cloth (not directly on the leather) and gently wipe down the furniture.
The vinegar helps to clean and remove dirt, while the linseed oil conditions the leather, preventing it from drying out and cracking. Buff with a clean, dry cloth for extra shine. Always test this method on an inconspicuous area first, as some leather finishes may react differently to this treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to use baking soda and vinegar on all surfaces?
No, there are some surfaces that can be damaged by baking soda and vinegar, such as natural stone, waxed wood, and aluminum. Always test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first, and refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations for specific materials.
2. How often should I use baking soda and vinegar to clean my drains?
For preventative maintenance, you can use the baking soda and vinegar method once a month to keep your drains flowing freely and smelling fresh. If you have a stubborn clog, you may need to repeat the process several times or use a plumber’s snake to remove the blockage.
3. How do I store my baking soda and vinegar cleaning solutions?
For pre-mixed solutions, store them in a labeled spray bottle or container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Baking soda and vinegar can be stored separately in their original packaging in your pantry or cleaning supply closet.
