Baking soda has many uses, from cleaning to cooking to beauty. It seems that baking soda is making its way into every homemade recipe out there. But what is baking soda better for? In this article we will be exploring baking soda for cooking vs cleaning.
Table of Contents
- Using Baking Soda For Cooking Vs Cleaning
- Can You Use Cleaning Baking Soda For Cooking
- Can You Use Pure Baking Soda For Cooking
- Arm And Hammer Baking Soda Cooking Vs Cleaning
- Baking Soda Vs Washing Soda
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
Using Baking Soda For Cooking Vs Cleaning
Baking soda is an ingredient that is versatile in many ways. From the name you would think it’s mainly used for cooking. So, is cooking soda the same as baking soda? The answer is yes, but be careful when purchasing baking soda as there are different types.
Baking soda is known as a leavening agent used in recipes that need rising, such as cakes and muffins. A natural alkaline food, baking soda becomes activated when it is combined with an acidic ingredient and a liquid, like water or lemon juice.
Baking soda also has very high PH levels which means it can be a great cleanser and break down grease, dirt and stains. The best baking soda to buy for cleaning would be washing baking soda.
Baking soda is effective when cleaning stainless steel, stovetops, ovens, microwaves, floors – and when washing fruit and veg. It can also act as a deodorizer for bad smells in the kitchen, as it absorbs odors.
Baking soda can work great for prepping more savory ingredients, as well as cakes and bakery items.
One particular vegetable baking soda pairs well with potatoes. A popular technique to get your potatoes to be crispy is to boil them in water that is mixed with baking soda. As baking soda’s PH level is high it raises the pH level of the water. This reacts with the outside of the potato and increases its starch content, which will result in the crispness of the potato after being cooked.
Can You Use Cleaning Baking Soda For Cooking
Washing baking soda can not be used for cooking or baking. Washing baking soda should not be ingested as it can make you very sick.
When baking soda mixes with any acid it will trigger a chemical reaction. Due to this reaction a release of gas will follow. If you consume too much baking soda or any washing baking soda it may follow with large amounts of gas accumulating in the body, particularly in the stomach which could go on to cause the stomach to rupture. This is due to washing soda being a baking soda with high concentration.
It is advised that you always check the packet of baking soda to see if it instructs it to be used for cleaning or for cooking. Always follow the packet’s instructions carefully.
Can You Use Pure Baking Soda For Cooking
Yes!
Using pure baking soda for cooking and eating is safe. Baking soda for cooking is milder and therefore it can be consumed, though it is best to consume in large quantities.
You must never inhale or place baking soda near delicate areas like your eyes. Baking soda also holds the risk of irritating the skin, so using it mildly will be best.
Arm And Hammer Baking Soda Cooking Vs Cleaning
Arm and Hammer is a very popular brand. It is the brand most people reach for when they want to buy both cooking baking soda and cleaning baking soda.
Can Arm and Hammer be used for both cooking and cleaning?
Yes, Arm and Hammer is safe to consume and is also effective when used in homemade natural cleaning solutions.
Even though cooking baking soda is milder than cleaning baking soda, it is still strong enough to work as a cleanser on utensils and surfaces. It may not get the worst stains out as it is not as strong as cleaning baking soda, but it can still give it a run for its money!
Baking Soda Vs Washing Soda
Baking soda and washing baking soda sound similar, apart from their strength difference. But they do have some other differences that make them separate products.
It’s true that both can work effectively when cleaning utensils, laundry and surfaces. But cleaning baking soda can damage skin and your insides as it’s so strong. When cleaning it’s best to use rubber gloves to protect your hands from drying out and even appearing in rashes.
The complicated explanation for what makes baking soda and washing baking soda different is what chemicals they are made from. Baking soda is made up from 1 part sodium, 1 part hydrogen, 1 part carbon and 3 parts oxygen molecules. Washing baking soda is made up from 2 parts sodium, 1 part carbon, and 3 parts oxygen molecules. This is what makes washing baking soda harsher.
Here is a helpful article with some cleaning tips.
Final Thoughts
The key points to remember is that there are two types of baking soda. One type is milder and uses for cooking and the other type is double the strength, can not be consumed but is fantastic at scrubbing away impurities in your home. It very important to make sure your using the right baking soda for each job.
Do you use baking soda more for cooking or cleaning?
If you would like to read more about baking soda, check these related posts on the blog:
- What Happens If You Use Baking Soda Instead of Baking Powder in a Cake
- Ammonia and Baking Soda Reaction
- The Difference Between Baking Soda and Meetha Soda
FAQs
Can We Use Cleaning Baking Soda For Cooking?
Never use cleaning baking soda for cooking. If it says cleaning on the packet – avoid using it for cooking! Only choose baking sodas that say cooking on the packet if you want to consume it.
When Should You Not Use Baking Soda To Clean?
Baking soda is very abrasive. You should be careful when using baking soda to clean surfaces that can be scratched or worn away. When you’re cleaning with baking soda, imagine that you’re using a very harsh scrubbing sponge. It may look like a white, soft powder but it’s powerful stuff. Be careful when cleaning silver, gold or marble surfaces. Also avoid cleaning aluminum cookware with this.
