10 Simple and Unique Uses for Baking Soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a white crystalline powder composed of sodium and bicarbonate ions. While it’s most commonly known as a leavening agent in baking, this humble kitchen ingredient has a surprising number of health, beauty, and household uses.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 easy and unique ways to use baking soda for personal care and minor health concerns. These tips are natural, affordable, and can easily become part of your regular self-care routine.
1. Teeth Whitening
If you want a brighter smile without using expensive whitening products, baking soda might be the solution. Its mild abrasive properties help remove surface stains from teeth.
How to use:
Mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or water.
Stir to form a paste.
Gently brush your teeth with the mixture using a toothbrush.
Rinse thoroughly with water.
✅ Use this method 2–3 times per week, but avoid overuse to prevent damage to your enamel.
2. Natural Mouthwash for Fresh Breath
Commercial mouthwashes often contain alcohol and artificial ingredients. Baking soda offers a natural and gentle alternative that neutralizes bad odors and helps balance pH in the mouth.
How to use:
Mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda with 1 cup of warm water.
Swish in your mouth for 30–60 seconds, then spit it out.
You can use this daily to freshen breath and promote oral hygiene.
3. Homemade Toothpaste
If you’re looking for a DIY toothpaste that’s free from artificial chemicals, baking soda can be your base.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
1 drop peppermint or clove essential oil
2–3 drops water
How to use:
Mix all ingredients into a smooth paste. Store in a small container and use it like regular toothpaste. This paste is refreshing and mildly abrasive—perfect for occasional deep-clean brushing.
4. Facial Exfoliator to Remove Dead Skin
Baking soda makes a great natural exfoliant that helps slough off dead skin cells, unclog pores, and leave your skin smoother.
How to use:
Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda, a few drops of water, and a bit of vitamin E oil (or any gentle essential oil).
Wash your face with soap and water.
Apply the paste to your damp skin and massage in circular motions.
Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
Apply a toner or moisturizer to finish.
Use once a week for glowing, refreshed skin.
5. Natural Deodorant
Baking soda can neutralize odor by combating the bacteria that cause body odor, making it a chemical-free alternative to store-bought deodorants.
How to use:
Mix 1 teaspoon baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste.
Apply to clean underarms.
Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing off.
For a more lasting deodorant, you can mix baking soda with coconut oil and arrowroot powder to form a natural cream deodorant.
6. Treating Mouth Ulcers
Mouth sores or ulcers can be painful and annoying. Baking soda has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help speed up healing.
How to use:
Dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in ½ cup of warm water.
Rinse your mouth 2–3 times per day.
This helps reduce inflammation and pain while promoting faster healing.
7. Removing Dark Spots on Elbows and Knees
Baking soda acts as a natural bleach and exfoliator, especially when combined with potato juice, which contains natural enzymes that help lighten the skin.
How to use:
Grate a small raw potato and extract the juice.
Mix with 1 teaspoon of baking soda until you get a medium-thick paste.
Apply to dark areas such as elbows and knees.
Leave it on for 10–15 minutes and rinse.
Apply a moisturizer afterward.
Repeat this 2–3 times a week for best results.
8. Reducing Eye Puffiness
Woke up with puffy eyes? Baking soda can help reduce swelling thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects.
How to use:
Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with warm tea or water.
Soak two cotton pads in the solution and place them over your closed eyelids.
Leave on for 15–20 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
Finish with a gentle moisturizer.
This can be done daily or as needed.
9. Relief from Insect Bites and Itchy Skin
Thanks to its soothing and anti-itch properties, baking soda is excellent for bug bites, rashes, and skin irritations.
How to use:
Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with just enough water to form a smooth paste.
Apply directly to the affected area.
Leave on for about 20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
You can also add baking soda to a warm bath for full-body relief from itching or irritation.
10. Removing Ingrown Hair Naturally
Ingrown hairs can be painful and unsightly. Baking soda helps soften the skin and loosen the hair trapped under the surface.
How to use:
First, rub a few drops of olive or castor oil on the affected area.
Then mix baking soda with a few drops of water to make a paste.
Apply over the area and gently massage.
Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse.
Gently remove the hair with sterilized tweezers if it’s visible.
Apply aloe vera or a calming cream afterward.
Repeat as needed to help prevent and treat ingrown hairs.
✨ Final Thoughts
Baking soda is truly one of the most versatile, affordable, and effective natural remedies available. Whether you’re looking for a chemical-free personal care solution or a quick fix for minor irritations, a box of baking soda in your kitchen can be a surprisingly powerful ally.
Important Reminder: Although baking soda is safe for most people, always do a patch test before applying to sensitive areas. If you have chronic skin conditions or allergies, consult a healthcare provider before using new remedies.
Let baking soda be more than just a baking ingredient—turn it into your go-to beauty and wellness helper!
