by Liz Sinclair

Created on: July 22, 2009   Last Updated: August 04, 2009

Baking soda has far more uses than just helping cakes and breads to rise. It can be used in general cooking to reduce acid or tenderize meat. Baking soda has disinfectant, antiseptic, deodorizing and anti-fungal properties that make it ideal for cleaning produce or food containers in the kitchen. Baking soda is also safe to use on skin, face, hair and even to take internally and works well as a low-cost health and beauty product for everyone, from babies to pets. It can be used to sooth irritation and itching from insect bites, sun burn or diaper rash. You may find that one small box of baking soda will become your household standard for treating a range of simple ailments and skin conditions. It can also be used as a safe, non-toxic cleaning agent around the house, or to enhance other cleaners. Baking soda is also good for the environment, with no harmful ingredients, so it can be simply flushed down the drain after using.

Here are some ideas for using baking soda for food, cooking and cleaning, and to replace more costly health, beauty or wellness products for your family and pets:

For Cooking:

Putting a small pinch of baking soda into brewing coffee or tomato sauce while cooking will reduce acidity. Adding baking soda to soaking water for dry beans will ensure the beans cook faster and produce less flatulence. Baking soda is also a good meat tenderizer: just rub some directly on the meat, then rinse off or add to stews while cooking.

For a Healthy Kitchen:

1) Use baking soda to wash pesticide residue or dirt from fruit and vegetables before cooking or eating. Soak produce in water sprinkled with some baking soda, then rinse.
2) Wash out water bottles, lunch boxes or other plastic food or drink containers with a solution of baking soda and water.
3) Soak baby bottles and nipples overnight in a solution of 4 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 quart of water.
4) Clean highchairs, play pens, changing tables, cribs, strollers or car seats. Just sprinkle some baking soda onto a wet sponge or cloth, clean baby equipment thoroughly, rinse and allow to dry.
5) Use baking soda to clean coffee and tea stains from cups, mugs, coffee makers or teapots. Soak in a mixture of cup of baking soda and 1 quart of warm water, then scrub, if necessary, with some baking soda on a wet sponge or cloth.
6) Place an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator to absorb odors. You can also sprinkle baking soda into the bottom of dishwashers or garbage cans to keep

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