Baking Soda Cleaning Tips for Hong Kong Homes

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a natural, chemical-free, and inexpensive cleaner that effectively removes stains and odors. However, it's important to be aware of its applicable scope and limitations when using it. This article will address common baking soda cleaning questions in Hong Kong households, helping tenants and homeowners to use this cleaner correctly and avoid common pitfalls.

Can baking soda be used to clean wooden floors? Will it damage the wooden floor surface?

It is not recommended to use baking soda directly to clean wooden floors or wooden furniture. Since baking soda is weakly alkaline and has a slight abrasive effect, it may damage the protective layer of the wooden floor, leading to loss of gloss and making the floor more susceptible to dirt and moisture. It is recommended to use a neutral cleaner or a slightly damp mop to clean wooden floors, avoiding the use of baking soda.

Can baking soda clean carpets? How to operate, can it remove stains and odors?

Yes.

Steps to clean carpets with baking soda:

• Sprinkle baking soda: Sprinkle an appropriate amount of dry baking soda on the carpet surface, especially on areas with odors or stains.
• Let it sit for 1-2 hours: Allow the baking soda to absorb odor molecules and some stains from the carpet.
• Vacuum clean: Use a vacuum cleaner to thoroughly remove the baking soda.
• Scope of application: This method is very effective for removing odors such as pet smells and mildew, and does not damage the carpet.
• Fabric furniture: For fabric furniture that cannot be washed with water (such as fabric sofas), you can also sprinkle baking soda, let it sit for a while, then brush or vacuum clean.
• Precautions: For stubborn staining stains (such as red wine, curry juice), the cleaning power is limited, it is recommended to use with a special carpet cleaner.

Cleaning tips: Make sure to use dry powder and thoroughly clean the powder to avoid residue affecting the appearance.

Can baking soda be used to clean the kitchen range hood and stubborn grease? How to do it specifically?

Applicable scope: Especially suitable for cleaning greasy surfaces such as range hoods and stovetops

Making the solution: Mix baking soda with hot water at about 60~70℃ in a 1:1 ratio to make the solution.

The process of cleaning grease:

• Soak a cloth or sponge in the baking soda hot water, then wipe the body of the range hood and the stovetop. The grease will dissolve more easily.
• For removable parts, such as the grease filter or grease cup of the range hood, soak them in the baking soda hot water for about 15 minutes to let the solution penetrate and break down the grease.
• After soaking, gently wipe with a sponge, and most of the grease can be removed. Then rinse with clean water and dry.

Can baking soda be used to clean surfaces of tiles or other materials? Will it scratch the surface?

Most hard surfaces (such as tiles, tiled walls, stone countertops, stainless steel sinks) can be cleaned with baking soda with good results. Baking soda is a mild abrasive cleaner, with fine powder that usually does not scratch the glaze of tiles.

Can baking soda and white vinegar be mixed together for cleaning? Is it safe to use this way?

Yes, mixing baking soda and white vinegar is a safe and effective natural cleaning method. Specific usage examples are as follows:

• Cleaning drains: Pour half a cup of baking soda into a clogged drain, then pour in a cup of white vinegar. The two will react vigorously, bubbling and loosening the dirt inside the pipe. After about 30 minutes, flush with hot water to wash away the residue, achieving a drain-clearing effect.
• Cleaning stubborn stains: Mix baking soda and white vinegar into a foamy paste, apply it to stubborn stains (such as grease on a stove), let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it off. This can effectively soften and remove stains.

Safety tips:

• The produced smell can be quite pungent; it is recommended to open windows for ventilation when using in enclosed spaces.
• Foam will be produced during the reaction; avoid shaking the mixture in a sealed container to prevent excessive pressure from causing it to spray out.

Baking soda is indeed a great helper for home cleaning! If you are looking for a place to live in Hong Kong, why not try our LetsGetHome Golden Key House rental platform!

Rent a house｜Study in Hong Kong https://www.letsgethome.com/zh-HK/blog Free self-listing https://www.letsgethome.com/zh-HK/listings/new