Cleaning with bicarb soda

Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) is a mild alkaline powder — gentle enough not to scratch most surfaces, but abrasive enough to lift grime, absorb odours and cut through soap scum.

What bicarb is good for

• Scrubbing sinks, showers and grout without scratching
• Deodorising carpets — sprinkle, leave for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum
• Lifting baked-on grime from ovens and stovetops (as a paste with water)
• Freshening fridges and bins
• Softening stubborn stains before spot-cleaning

What to avoid

• Aluminium cookware — it can cause discolouration over repeated use
• Antique or delicate finishes — test in an inconspicuous spot first
• Mixing with vinegar expecting a stronger clean — the reaction neutralises both, leaving mostly water

How we use it

We reach for bicarb where we need gentle abrasion without scratching — bathroom fixtures, stainless steel benches, and carpet deodorising in childcare centres and family homes. It's unscented and safe if a small amount is accidentally touched, which matters in childcare settings and NDIS homes.