A Clean Break with soda

Great-grandmother did not clean compact disks with baking soda, but you can. She did use it to scrub the house top to bottom, and today, even with plenty of manufactured speciality cleaners touting improved formulas, baking soda still shines. Cleaning compact disks is just one new job for the little box of sodium bicarbonate. Soda is popular today because its tiny crystals dissolve easily and leave no residue. Just follow these easy directions.

Polishing paste: In a jar, mix equal parts of baking soda and warm water. Use the paste to clean tarnished silverware, bathtubs, stainless-steel sinks, and toilets. (Do not use soda on aluminum surface because the metal will react and turn black.) To store, cover with plastic wrap.

Liquid cleaner: In a squirt bottle or plastic container with a tight lid, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 pint of warm water. Use this solution to mop vinyl floors, clean compact disks, or wash windows.

Sponging: Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp sponge. Wipe scuffs, stains, or crayon marks from painted walls, laminated countertops, tile surfaces, and appliances such as the microwave oven, stove top, and refrigerator. Dry with a clean cloth.

Carpet deodorizer: Put baking soda into a sprinkle-top container. To test colourfastness, sprinkle a small amount directly onto carpet or upholstery in and out-of-sight spot. Let and stand for 15 minutes before vacuuming or brushing off. Once you know the fabric is colourfast, shake soda onto the affected areas.

A freshener: After you have cleaned, use baking soda as a natural deodorize. Leave an open box in your refrigerator, clothes hamper, or closet. Change it every few months for maximum benefit.

A final note: Do not mix baking soda in cleaning solutions with acids, such as vinegar or lemon juice, because they will neutralize the soda and diminish its cleaning ability.

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