Australians have been using bicarbonate soda around the house for generations, for everything from keeping the fridge free of dodgy smells to adding a teaspoon to their Anzac biscuit recipe.
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There are literally hundreds of uses for this humble leavening agent around the house, and McKenzie's Foods has shared just 10 ways you can utilise it this spring.
Clean make-up brushes. To clean makeup brushes, soak in Bi-Carb solution overnight. Rinse well and dry.
Clean baby bottles. Safely clean baby bottles by placing two tablespoons of Bi-Carb into the bottle, pour in hot water, leave to soak then rinse well.
Fruit and vegetable scrub. For a safe way to effectively clean dirt and residue off fresh fruit and vegetables, sprinkle a little Bi-Carb on a clean cloth or vegetable brush. Scrub and rinse.
Shoe whitener and deodoriser. Make your white sneakers like new again. Combine one tablespoon of hot water, one tablespoon of white vinegar and one tablespoon of Bi-Carb. Mix and then use an old toothbrush to lather the mixture onto the canvas areas of your shoes. Sprinkle a small amount of dry Bi-Carb into your shoes to remove smells. Shake out well before wearing.
Beautifying hair mask. Remove unwanted styling product build-up from your hair by washing weekly with one tablespoon of Bi-Carb mixed with your regular shampoo. Rinse thoroughly, then condition and style as usual.
Cleaning silver jewellery. Soak in a solution of half a cup of vinegar and two tablespoons of Bi-Carb for two hours. Buff with a soft cloth.
Freshen new towels. Wash new towels with half a cup of Bi-Carb to increase fluffiness.
Deodorising smelly pet bedding. Sprinkle Bi-Carb onto dry bed. Leave for at least 15 minutes, then vacuum.
Remove stubborn stains on carpets and rugs. Sprinkle Bi-Carb over the stain, then moisten it with a little soda water and rub gently. Do not over-wet carpet/rug. Allow to dry, then vacuum clean.
Deodorise the fridge. Place a small open container of Bi-Carb in your fridge to eliminate unwanted food odours. Replace it monthly.