Baking Soda Cleaning Tips for Hong Kong Homes

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

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

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, causing it to lose its luster 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 and avoid 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 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 in removing pet odors, mildew smells, and other odors, and will not damage the carpet
• Fabric furniture: For fabric furniture that cannot be washed (such as fabric sofas), you can also sprinkle baking soda, let it sit for a while, then brush off or vacuum clean
• Precautions: It has limited cleaning power for stubborn staining stains (such as red wine, curry juice), it is recommended to use special carpet cleaners

Cleaning tips: Ensure 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 a solution.

The process of cleaning grease:

• Soak a cloth or sponge in the baking soda hot water, and 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 oil cup of the range hood, soak them in the baking soda hot water for about 15 minutes to allow the solution to penetrate and break down the grease
• After soaking, gently wipe with a sponge, most of the grease can be removed, then rinse with clean water and dry

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

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

Safety tips:

• The reaction produces a rather pungent smell, so it is recommended to open windows for ventilation when using it in a confined space.
• The reaction will produce foam, so 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 household cleaning!

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