Most people keep a small box of baking soda tucked away in the pantry without giving it much thought. It often comes out only when it’s time to bake cookies, muffins, or a favorite family recipe. Yet this simple household staple has earned its reputation for much more than helping baked goods rise.

For generations, families have found practical ways to use baking soda throughout the home. From freshening everyday spaces to assisting with routine cleaning tasks and even playing a role in certain personal care routines, this inexpensive powder has become one of the most versatile products found in kitchens around the world.

While baking soda isn’t a cure-all and shouldn’t replace medical or professional advice when needed, it can be a helpful addition to many everyday household routines. Here are 13 popular ways people use it safely and effectively.

1. Freshen Your Refrigerator

One of the best-known uses for baking soda is reducing food odors inside the refrigerator. An open box placed on a shelf can help absorb certain odors over time, making the refrigerator smell fresher between cleanings.

For best results, replace the box periodically according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

2. Help Neutralize Trash Bin Odors

Kitchen trash cans can develop unpleasant smells even when emptied regularly.

Sprinkling a small amount of baking soda into the bottom of the bin before inserting a fresh bag may help reduce lingering odors.

3. Deodorize Carpets

Many homeowners lightly sprinkle baking soda over carpets or rugs before vacuuming.

After allowing it to sit for a short period, vacuuming removes the powder along with many trapped odors, helping the room feel fresher.

Always test a small, hidden area first and follow the flooring manufacturer’s recommendations.

4. Freshen Shoes

Athletic shoes, work boots, and slippers can develop odors after repeated use.

A small amount of baking soda placed inside dry shoes overnight may help absorb moisture and reduce unpleasant smells.

Shake or vacuum out the powder before wearing the shoes again.

5. Support Gentle Household Cleaning

When mixed with a small amount of water, baking soda forms a mild paste that many people use for cleaning certain household surfaces.

Because it is mildly abrasive, it may help remove some stains without the harshness of stronger cleaning products.

Always test delicate materials first to ensure compatibility.

6. Remove Odors From Food Containers

Plastic food storage containers sometimes retain strong food odors.

Washing them with a baking soda solution may help reduce lingering smells before their next use.

7. Freshen Kitchen Sinks

A sprinkle of baking soda followed by gentle scrubbing can help clean stainless steel or porcelain sinks while reducing everyday odors.

Rinse thoroughly with water afterward.

8. Help Keep Sponges Fresher

Kitchen sponges can develop unpleasant odors after repeated use.

Some people soak them in a mixture containing baking soda and water before rinsing thoroughly.

Replace worn or heavily used sponges regularly for proper kitchen hygiene.