Baking soda is known for being an inexpensive, readily available, and highly effective household cleaner. Not to mention, baking soda is a naturally occurring material, making it a more sustainable choice than chemical-ridden commercial cleaners. That doesn’t mean that everything benefits from a good scrub with baking soda, though. Read on to discover 5 things you should never clean with baking soda.
Glass
Glass is not well-suited for baking soda, due to its abrasive nature. In fact, you might accidentally scratch your mirrors or windows if you attempt to clean them with baking soda. If you’re looking for an all-natural cleaner for these surfaces, vinegar is a better bet.
Aluminum
Technically you can use baking soda to clean aluminum pots and pans. However, it’s important that you not let the baking soda sit for too long. Do so, and you’ll run the risk of oxidizing the aluminum, which will turn the surface brown. Rinse immediately after using baking soda on aluminum items.
Marble or Quartz
Marble and quartz are beautiful, upscale finishes that do well with gentle cleaners, not baking soda. Accidentally use the household item on your marble or quartz countertops, and you may damage the upper protective layer of the surface, which will eventually leave lasting scratches.
Antique Silver
Want to restore shine to your antique silver? Baking soda can effectively remove tarnish, but it’s almost too effective at its job, as the substance will also cause the silver to lose its patina and tarnish quickly afterward. When it comes to cleaning antique goods, it’s always best to take it to a professional.
Your Skin
Yes, it’s true that baking soda is a natural exfoliant great for cleaning skin...but only occasionally. Baking soda has a basic pH, while your skin is a little acidic. Use baking soda on your skin too frequently, and you’ll experience dry, cracked skin. Stick to using baking soda on your skin once a week at the most.
Optimize every aspect of your life with these interesting tips and ideas, courtesy of the professional team at Oxford at Lake View Apartments in Corinth, Texas.