Bicarbonate of Soda
Also known as: Baking soda, Sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO3
Natural abrasive cleaner and deodoriser. One of the few cleaning ingredients you actually need.
How it works
Sodium bicarbonate is a mild alkali (pH ~8.4) that reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas and water. This reaction is what makes it effective for cleaning:
As an abrasive: The fine crystalline structure provides gentle scrubbing power without scratching most surfaces.
As a deodoriser: Most odours are acidic compounds. Bicarb neutralises these rather than masking them. It doesn't just cover smells — it chemically converts them to neutral salts.
With vinegar: The classic combo produces CO2 bubbles that help lift grime. The reaction is: NaHCO3 + CH3COOH → CO2 + H2O + NaCH3COO. The fizzing action provides mechanical cleaning power.
Uses
- -Surface scrubbing — paste with water
- -Deodorising fridges, bins, carpets
- -Laundry booster — softens water, lifts stains
- -Drain cleaning — with vinegar for fizzing action
- -Oven cleaning — paste, leave overnight
Why we recommend it
Non-toxic, cheap, effective. Replaces most commercial scrubbing products that contain synthetic fragrances and harsh surfactants.
Replaces / avoids
Where to get it
Any supermarket, baking aisle. Buy the big boxes from cleaning aisle for better value.
Budget-friendly