As a professional carer, maintaining a clean and healthy environment for your clients is essential. However, traditional cleaning products can often contain harsh chemicals that may not be suitable for everyone. That's where baking soda comes in handy! This versatile household staple is not only safe and eco-friendly but also incredibly effective at tackling a variety of cleaning tasks. In this article, we'll explore five baking soda cleaning hacks that will help you keep your client's home fresh and pristine.
Whether you’re doing maintenance or deep cleaning, you’ll find a trusted helper in baking soda.
Cleaning the sink drain
To keep drains fresh, regularly sprinkle a little baking soda in them while running hot water. For a deeper clean, a slow-moving drain or mild clog, reach for the baking soda and white vinegar.
Here’s how:
Pour a (tea)pot of boiling hot water down your drain.
Dump in about 1/2 cup baking soda. Let that sit for 3-5 minutes.
Then, pour a mixture of 1 cup vinegar and 1 cup very hot water down the drain, on top of the baking soda.
If you have a drain plug, cover the drain and let sit for 5-10 minutes. If you don’t have a drain plug, it’ll be fine; the plug just keeps more of the reaction below the surface.
Flush again with a pot of boiling water.
Freshen up refrigerators and freezers:
Refrigerators and freezers can develop lingering odours over time, particularly from spoiled food or spills. Placing an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator and freezer can help absorb and neutralise odours, keeping the interior smelling fresh for longer. Remember to replace the box of baking soda every few months for maximum effectiveness.
Deodorise carpets:
Over time, carpets and upholstery can absorb unwanted odours from pets, food spills, and everyday use. Sprinkling baking soda liberally over these surfaces and allowing them to sit for a few hours before vacuuming can help neutralise odours and freshen up the space. For stubborn smells, you can even mix baking soda with a few drops of essential oil for a customised fragrance.
Clean and deodorise bathroom fixtures:
Bathrooms are another area where baking soda can work wonders. Use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. Not only will this remove soap scum and grime, but it will also neutralise any lingering odours, leaving the bathroom smelling clean and fresh.
Remove stubborn stains from furniture and walls:
Stubborn stains on furniture or walls can be challenging, but baking soda can help. Apply a paste with baking soda and water to the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing it with a soft cloth or sponge. The baking soda will help lift the stain without damaging the surface, leaving it looking as good as new.
Baking soda into your cleaning routine can offer a safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly solution for maintaining a clean and healthy home environment for your clients. From deodorising carpets to unclogging drains, these baking soda cleaning hacks are sure to make your caregiving duties a little easier and more enjoyable. So why not give them a try and see the difference baking soda can make in your client's home?