Baking Soda-Quite Possibly The World's Most Useful Substance

What if I told you that one of the most useful substances in the world costs under a dollar and is probably in your kitchen cabinet right now? No, it's not salt. It's not vinegar, although that has a wide range of uses too. It's not that bottle of hot sauce your husband has had since your wedding ten years ago and won't get rid of. I'll give you a hint-it can be used for cleaning, baking, personal hygiene and even as a beauty aid.

It's baking soda.

That's right, that box of Arm & Hammer is good for much more than baking or keeping your refrigerator smelling good. Here are some uses you might not have thought of:

• Household cleaner. Baking soda can be a very good abrasive powder that doesn't scratch delicate surfaces. Make a slightly-wet paste and use to scrub your bathtub or sink to get rid of stains and soap scum. You can also use it to remove old paint; visit this site for instructions.
• Drain cleaner. Does your kitchen sink have a funny smell to it? Pour some baking soda down it, and the smell will fade. This is a good use for baking soda that was previously used to absorb odors in your refrigerator.
• Facial scrub. A thin paste of baking soda and water makes a good exfoliant. It can help slough off dead skin and clean off old makeup.
• Clarifying shampoo. A mixture of baking soda and water rubbed onto the scalp can help remove oil, dirt and buildup. Follow with a vinegar rinse for clean, shiny hair. For instructions on how to make these mixtures, visit this helpful website.
• Body Wash/deodorant. If you're getting ready to go out and are a bit nervous, a light dusting of baking soda under your arms can help absorb any excess nervous sweat. This is along with your regular deodorant, of course. Also, putting about half a cup of baking soda into your bath can help remove lingering odors from your skin. When you shower, you can use a paste of water and about ¼ cup of baking soda under your arms to remove dead skin, odor and any deodorant residue. IMPORTANT: Do NOT apply baking soda to your underarms right after you have shaved them. It will itch and burn!
• Plaque remover. Your toothpaste may already have baking soda in it, but using about ¼ teaspoon on your toothbrush when you brush your teeth can remove excess plaque and sweeten your mouth. Also, gargling with about ½ a teaspoon mixed with water can help freshen your breath and relieve mouth sores.
• Rashes and skin irritations. In addition to helping your skin smell better, putting baking soda in your bath water can also help soothe minor skin irritations. Also, putting about two tablespoons of baking soda into your baby's bathwater can help relieve diaper rash.
• Cat Litter. Sprinkling baking soda into a litter box can help absorb odors and extend the useful life of the litter. Also, coating the bottom of the litter box before you add litter can help keep clumps from sticking to the box.

I'll bet you had no idea that that simple box of baking soda could be so useful! I know that it's saved me a lot of time and money. For even more uses, check out LifeHackery.com!