20 Surprising Ways Baking Soda Has Been Used For Generations. My Grandpa Still Does #5 Daily!

11. Clean/Deodorize Carpets

Sprinkle some baking soda onto a rug and let it sit at least 15 minutes (although the longer you let it sit, the better) before vacuuming. This will help clean and deodorize both your rugs and your vacuum.

12. Extinguish Grease Fires

If you’re cooking and a small grease fire erupts, first things first do NOT put water on it. Instead, turn of heat, try to remove the oxygen from the flame, and dump baking soda on the fire. Remember, this only works for small fires, and it takes a lot of baking soda. Always keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case.

13. Deodorize/Unclog Drain

Pour 1/2 cup to 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup to 1 cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for about ten minutes, and then pour a gallon of boiling water down the drain. This will help clear any clogs, and deodorize your drain at the same time.

14. Closet Freshener

Just like you would with your fridge, place an opened box of baking soda in your closet to keep your garments smelling fresh and clean.

15. Clean/Freshen Sponges

Got some sponges that smell a bit funky? Don’t throw them away! Instead, soak them in a solution that’s 4 tbsp of baking soda and 1 quart of warm water and they’ll be good as new!