1. Avoid Using Baking Soda for These 4 Cleaning Tasks
Baking soda, a kitchen staple more commonly known for its role in baking, is also an unsung hero in home cleaning solutions. Its natural abrasive, antibacterial, and deodorizing properties make it an effective tool. But, like any multi-purpose tool, baking soda isn't perfect for every job. To help you dial down the mess and amp up the shine in your home, we've compiled a list of surfaces you should steer clear of when cleaning with baking soda.
Warning! Baking Soda Off-Limits Zones
1. Aluminum Surfaces
Cleaning expert Lucy Rhead of Gtech advises against using baking soda on aluminum items and surfaces such as tables, picture frames, and lamps. The reason? Baking soda can cause aluminum to oxidize, resulting in a change of color or even turning brown over time.
2. Wooden Furniture or Floors
While its abrasive quality makes baking soda great for kitchen surfaces and carpets, that same quality proves detrimental to wooden surfaces. Baking soda can harm wood finishes or sealants and potentially cause discoloration.
3. Marble Surfaces
Although baking soda can effectively remove stains from marble, continuous use might lead to damage. It can strip the protective layer off marble and eventually create scratches and grooves on the surface.
4. Type of Glass
Baking soda should stay far away from all glass surfaces – whether delicate glassware or windows – due to its abrasive nature. Opt for glass-specific cleaning products to avoid causing unwanted damage to these delicate surfaces.
Pro Tip:- Always check the manufacturer's guidelines for specific materials and appliances before cleaning.- Never use baking soda inside electrical appliances.
Now that you know the ins and outs of using baking soda for household cleaning, you can transform your home without incurring damage! Need more cleaning hacks and inspiration? Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter and watch your space transform.
Contributor: Amy HuntAmy Hunt is a digital journalist and editor, specializing in homes, interiors, wellness, travel, and careers. She was previously the Lifestyle Editor at our platform, overseeing the home, books, and features sections. Her eight years in the industry have led to contributions to various publications, including this platform, Livingetc, T3, Goodto, Woman, Woman's Own, and Red magazine.
- "In the realm of home-and-garden lifestyle, one might want to be mindful of not using baking soda for cleaning kitchen islands as it may lead to unfavorable outcomes on aluminum surfaces, potentially discoloring or even damaging them."
- "For those aiming to keep their lifestyle fresh and clean, it's essential to avoid using baking soda for cleaning delicate glass surfaces, such as windows and glassware, to prevent unwanted scratches or damage."
