Yes, I'm still in a baking frenzy but no, this item is not just for baking. It is also very useful for other housekeeping purposes.

Also known as sodium bicarbonate or bicarbonate of soda (NaHCO3), it is an alkali that reacts strongly with acid. It is a proven cleaning agent and a deodoriser. Here are a few of its uses:

• Tiles and ceramics - either sprinkle on a moist surface and rub till the stains are removed or apply as a paste.


• Scorched pans - dissolve a teaspoon in a cup of water, boil for a minute then let stand overnight.


• Oven or stovetop flares - sprinkle baking soda directly on the fire. If something got burnt in the oven and the smell persists, wipe the sides of the oven with a mixture of 3 tablespoons baking soda with 1 cup of water. Place the remaining mixture in a tub and add a half cup of water and let it stand in the oven overnight.


• Clogged sink - place two tablespoons of baking soda on the sinkhole, pour half a cup of vinegar and let stand for five minutes. Afterwards, pour a pot of boiling water. Repeat the whole process if necessary - twice or thrice for badly clogged sinks.


• Refrigerator deodoriser - for those lingering smells, leave a small open container or place five tablespoons in a disposable plastic cup at the back of the refrigerator.

Aside from all that and many more, a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in a cup of water works effectively as an antacid. For whiter teeth, brush with baking soda now and then.

[Photo credit: NaturalHealthSupply.com]