Bicarbonate of Soda: Loving it

The uses for bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) seem to be endless. There are countless links to articles available for this magical white powder, but I'm merely sharing a few of my favourites:

As an antacid

Let's face it: Most of us like to indulge in something sweet now and then. But sometimes the inability to control ourselves leads to heartburn or indigestion. Bicarbonate of soda works great to get instant relief from that horrendous feeling inside your body. Granted, it's not tasty and should not be used for long periods of time, but it helps.

To get rid of smells

Probably one of the first things I used bicarbonate of soda for was getting rid of smells. Sprinkle some in a pair of shoes, in your car, on carpets - even on the dog to get rid of the smell. Vacuuming it up may not be as fun as sprinkling it everywhere but it's worth it.

For unblocking drains

I have never spilled drain cleaner on myself but I'm sure it's painful. I also don't believe it's environmentally friendly. That's why a few spoons of bicarb in the drain pipe followed by half a cup of vinegar does the trick. Not all drains can be unblocked this way though and it should only be used for smaller blockages. Professional plumbers are there for a reason.

Making laundry detergent last longer

Two kilograms of washing powder with 500 grams of bicarbonate of soda and the optional 1 kilogram salt makes your detergent last longer. It also has the benefit of not leaving deposits in your washing machine. A third benefit is that the colours stay whiter and brighter.

To stop that itch

Summer. Mosquitoes (in many parts of the world). Other bugs. Make a paste from bicarbonate of soda and water and apply to those itchy bites. It will stop the itching almost instantly.

FUN

I don't care what anyone says - my primary school science volcano project was still the most awesome thing ever done with bicarbonate of soda. The foaming mess that came from a poorly constructed volcano brought pride and happiness for days after it started.

What else do you do with bicarb of soda?