Using baking soda for cleaning
Baking soda is an inorganic salt often found in powdered form. It is used as a leavening agent in baking because it releases carbon dioxide when reacted with acids or heat. It is also used in a wide range of non-food products such as laundry detergents and personal care products.
Chemical formula and synonyms of baking soda
- The molecular formula for baking soda is CHNaO3. Baking soda may have names such as:
- It can be as indicated on the product label: acidosan; monosodium salt of carbonic acid; sodium bicarbonate; meillon; neutral; sodium hydrogen carbonate; sodium carbonate; sodium bicarbonate; sodium bicarbonate.
Baking soda, very alkaline with a high pH, is one of the best cleaning ingredients that is harmless to the environment and is used in some cleaning products, especially eco-friendly ones. It can be found in laundry detergents, detergents, mold removers, laundry detergents, carpet cleaners and detergents, laundry soaps, automatic dishwasher cleaners, air fresheners, toilet bowl cleaners, floor cleaners, all-purpose cleaners and stain removers.
It is known for its fantastic deodorizing, bleaching, brightening, cleansing and softening properties. Its powdery form makes it excellent at absorbing grease and stains. It also has bactericidal and stain-removing properties. You can also instantly mix your own products for eco-friendly cleaning.
Other Uses of Baking Soda
In addition to its use in cleaning products, baking soda can also be found in personal care products (such as bath products, toothpaste, deodorants, detergents, soaps), medicines (such as skin care), baked goods and many other products. Baking soda is also used for heartburn, acid stomach upset and stomach problems caused by such problems. It can also be used to regulate the pH in swimming pools.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA – United States Environmental Protection Agency; EPA), baking soda is also considered a biopesticide, a pesticide derived from certain types of natural substances.
Brands of products containing baking soda
In addition to baking soda from the familiar Arm & Hammer box, baking soda is used as an ingredient in several other products. To determine if a particular product contains baking soda, use the “household products” database
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Environmental Working Group (EWG) Health Guide
the Good Guide or the EWG Skin Deep Cosmetic database.
If using the generic term “baking soda” does not produce results, try entering one of its synonyms.
Health and Safety, Environmental Impact
Unlike other chemicals used to clean food, baking soda is a very safe chemical. It can also be taken orally as an antacid, as indicated on the packaging of Arm & Hammer baking soda. However, I caution that baking soda must be completely dissolved in water, not soaked when you pour it in.
The only real safety issue with baking soda is that it can cause eye irritation. It is recommended that you rinse your eyes with water for a few minutes and then seek medical attention. Otherwise, baking soda is very safe.
There is no data showing whether baking soda has a negative impact on the environment. But it is actually derived from a substance called trona, which is found in Wyoming, and then processed into baking soda.
The environment is affected by mining and processing.
