Baking soda isn’t just for deodorizing your fridge. Check out these clever uses.
Removing Onion and Garlic Odors From Your Hands
No, it’s not too good to be true. Baking soda can remove the pungent onion and garlic odors that typically linger on your hands after meal prep. It’s simple. Make a thick paste of baking soda and water and vigorously rub it all over your hands for at least 30 to 45 seconds. Wash with hand soap, dry, and try not to be amazed.
Freshening Sponges
Over time sponges collect odors, but they’re easily remedied. Mix 2 quarts of warm water with ½ cup of baking soda in your sink. Let your sponges sit in the solution for about 15 to 20 minutes, and they’ll be ready to go.
Cleaning Stainless Steel and Copper Surfaces
Using baking soda is a great way to shine-up your stainless steel and copper appliances and items without running the risk of scratching their surfaces. Make a thick baking soda and water paste, rub it on the surface you want to clean using a soft scrub sponge, and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Scrub the surface again using the sponge, then rinse your sponge and wipe clean. Let the baking soda scrub sit overnight on surfaces with tough stains.
Cleaning Your Fruits and Veggies
You don’t have to buy fruit and vegetable washes to clean your produce when baking soda can work just as well. Add a tablespoon of baking soda to a cup of warm water. Use the solution and a soft-bristle vegetable brush to gently scrub the surfaces of your veggies and fruits. Rinse your produce clean with fresh water.
Tenderizing Meats
You read that right. Baking soda is actually a natural meat tenderizer. To soften meats coat them completely with baking soda by patting the powder onto all surfaces. Place your meats into the fridge for about 3 to 5 hours. Rinse away all of the baking soda, and prepare as usual.