When it comes to natural home cleaning miracles, baking soda seems like the holy grail—cheap, versatile, and eco-friendly. We use it to freshen carpets, remove stains, whiten curtains, and even clean our teeth (although dentists might be a little reluctant to agree). But hey, just because something is natural doesn't mean it's safe for everyone. Baking soda also has its dark, slightly gross side.
Yes, it's true – bicarbonate of soda It has a rather abrasive nature. And that's why, instead of making your home shine, it can leave tiny scratches, permanent stains and other micro-drama on surfaces that should be eternally elegant. Below, we reveal which surfaces simply don't get along with the most popular household powder, and offer alternatives that will clean without consequences.
Baking soda has long been a household cleaning staple. We use it in the kitchen, the bathroom, to remove odors, and even to whiten our smiles (although dentists may be a little wary). Its power? An abrasive texture that removes stains with minimal scrubbing, and it's also an eco-conscious savior.
But be careful – every superpower has its dark side. And baking soda is no exception.
Surfaces treated with baking soda doesn't like
If you're one of those people who obsessively cleans everything that shines with baking soda – STOP. Take a deep breath. Below is a list of surfaces that deserve a moment of silence when using baking soda:
- Glass, mirrors and windows: It's true that we all want a sparkling look in the mirror, but soda, with its rough texture, can easily leave tiny scratches. These are barely noticeable at first, but soon you'll have a mirror that resembles more of an impressionist artwork than a useful piece of equipment.
- Wooden surfaces: Natural wood is delicate and valuable. Baking soda can break down the protective coating or even damage the wood structure itself. And no, a rustic, worn-out coffee table it is not always in fashion.
- Marble and other natural stones: If marble could talk, it would scream at the sight of baking soda. Because it is alkaline, baking soda can damage the surface's shine or cause stains that are not easily removed.
- Ceramics (at least those with glaze): Coarse grains of baking soda can cause microscopic scratches that turn into noticeable cracks over the years. And then? Hello, dripping sink.
So what to use instead of baking soda?
If you're feeling a little scared (or just sighing in despair), don't worry—there are other paths to a sparkling home. And no, they don't involve a science degree in chemistry.
For mirrors and glass Use a magic mixture that you can make right at home:
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup of water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (yes, you read that right – the kind for the kitchen!)
Mix in a spray bottle, spray, wipe with a clean cloth or paper towel – and voilà! Your mirror will shine brighter than your skin after a Korean facial.
Conclusion: Baking soda is great – but not everywhere
Baking soda is definitely miracle cleaner, but it's not for everyone. Use it wisely - keep your secret cleaning weapon where it shines, not where it causes damage. Your home deserves a little tenderness, and you deserve as little cleaning as possible with long-term consequences.
And if you've ever "cleaned" a mirror with baking soda and now see the world through a foggy scratch - take comfort in this: you're not alone.
