How to Properly Use Baking Soda to Deodorize Your Fridge (and Avoid Common Mistakes)
Baking soda is a kitchen staple known for its ability to neutralize odors, and it’s often used to keep fridges smelling fresh. However, many people unknowingly use it incorrectly, leading to less effective results. By understanding how to properly use baking soda, you can maximize its deodorizing power and maintain a pleasant-smelling fridge.
Why Baking Soda Works as a Deodorizer
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a natural, non-toxic compound that acts as a mild alkali. It neutralizes odors by reacting with acidic odor molecules, turning them into neutral-smelling compounds. This makes it a powerful tool for absorbing and eliminating smells in confined spaces like your fridge.
Common Mistakes People Make with Baking Soda
- Limited Exposure Area:
- Most people place a closed box of baking soda in their fridge. While this is convenient, it restricts the surface area of the baking soda that’s exposed to the air. The small opening on the box limits its deodorizing potential.
- Overloading the Fridge:
- If you place too many items around the box, it can block the airflow and reduce the baking soda’s ability to absorb odors.
- Infrequent Replacement:
- Leaving the same box of baking soda in the fridge for months can make it ineffective. Over time, it becomes saturated with odors and can no longer neutralize smells effectively.
