July 17, 2024

Baking soda is a versatile and effective cleaner that can help with various dishwashing tasks. Here are some hacks for cleaning dishes with baking soda:
ALWAYS TEST A SPOT FIRST.
1. Removing Stubborn Stains
Hack: Sprinkle baking soda directly onto stubborn stains on dishes, pots, and pans.
Method: Make a paste by adding a few drops of water to the baking soda. Scrub the stained area with a sponge or cloth until the stains lift.
2. Deodorizing Dishes
Hack: Use baking soda to remove odors from dishes.
Method: Fill your sink with warm water and add 1/2 cup of baking soda. Soak the dishes for 15-20 minutes before washing them as usual.
3. Cleaning Burnt Pots and Pans
Hack: Baking soda can help remove burnt food from pots and pans.
Method: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the burnt area. Add a small amount of water to create a paste and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Scrub with a sponge or brush and rinse clean.
4. Polishing Silverware
Hack: Restore the shine to your silverware using baking soda.
Method: Make a paste with three parts baking soda and one part water. Rub the paste onto the silverware with a cloth, then rinse and buff dry.
5. Unclogging a Slow-Draining Sink
Hack: Use baking soda to help clear minor clogs in your sink.
Method: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for about 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
6. Cleaning Coffee and Tea Stains from Mugs
Hack: Baking soda effectively removes coffee and tea stains from mugs.
Method: Sprinkle baking soda inside the mug, add a little water to form a paste, and scrub with a sponge. Rinse thoroughly.
7. Cutting Grease
Hack: Use baking soda to cut through grease on dishes and surfaces.
Method: Add a tablespoon of baking soda to your dish soap when washing greasy dishes. For surfaces, sprinkle baking soda directly on the greasy area and scrub with a damp sponge.
8. Cleaning Dishwashers
Hack: Maintain your dishwasher with baking soda.
Method: Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a hot water cycle. This helps to freshen and clean the interior.
9. Cleaning Wooden Cutting Boards
Hack: Baking soda helps to clean and deodorize wooden cutting boards.
Method: Sprinkle baking soda on the cutting board, scrub with a damp sponge, and rinse thoroughly. For extra deodorizing, rub half a lemon over the surface after scrubbing.
10. Dealing with Hard Water Spots
Hack: Remove hard water spots from glassware with baking soda.
Method: Make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the spots, and scrub gently. Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth.
Using baking soda for these dish-cleaning hacks can save you money and reduce your reliance on harsh chemicals, making it an eco-friendly choice for maintaining a clean kitchen.