Soda Crystals: 20 Brilliant Ways To Use Them Around The House

Soda Crystals: 20 Brilliant Ways To Use Them Around The House

 

Editor's Note: This post was originally posted in March 2019 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness in October 2019.

Looking for a more environmentally-friendly way to clean? You've come to the right place!

As we become more aware of the harmful ingredients in popular cleaning products, it's time to look for kinder alternatives that are just as powerful.

Today, we'll be showing you how to use Soda Crystals to deep clean your home. 

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What are Soda Crystals? 

soda crystals
Have you seen them in your local supermarket?

If you think they're just for softening water or for cleaning your washing machine, you'd be wrong! Soda Crystals are a multi-purpose cleaner that can be made into a solution for use all-around your home.

Soda Crystals are a traditional cleaning product, used for hundreds of years. They're super affordable, normally retailing for £1 per kg. The most common supplier of Soda Crystals in the UK is a company called Dri-Pak.

Uses for Soda Crystals

1. Unblock sinks 

drain
Watch the water trickle down.

Plug holes can quickly become clogged with food waste, product build-up, debris and grease. Not only does the water take longer to drain, but you might also start to notice some unpleasant smells. Instead of wasting money on expensive, toxic drain unblockers, give Soda Crystals a try. 

Pour approximately 1 cup of the crystals directly down the plughole. Boil a kettle full of water and, after the few minutes that it takes for the water to boil, flush the crystals down with the boiling water. 

This method might not be as effective on bathroom drains, where you might have a hair blockage. It's worth a try but, if it doesn't work, check out our other article on how to get hair out of drains

TOP TIP: Prevention is better than cure. Never dispose of cooking oils and fats down your sink. 

2. Clean your extractor fan filter

Cleaning the filter on your extractor fan is easy with Soda Crystals. Make up a strong solution in a washing up bowl and leave the filter to soak for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly, using a sponge to gently scrub away any leftover residue. 

You can also use liquid Soda Crystals to clean the exterior of your extractor fan. Be sure to keep up with regular cleaning to avoid a build-up of grime. 

3. Clean up garden ornaments 

Weather-damaged or mucky garden ornaments can live another day! Use a regular strength solution of Soda Crystals with a bristle brush to remove caked-on grime, mould, and mud.  

4. How to use Soda Crystals to clean your oven

oven
We hate this job!

Oven cleaning is our least favourite chore, but it's important to keep on top of it before it becomes a colossal task. 

Spray Liquid Soda Crystals onto your oven and leave the solution to sit for an hour. Wipe off with a sponge and rinse with clean water. The slightly abrasive nature of dry Soda Crystals makes them perfect for scrubbing at stubborn burnt-on food.

5. Restore silver jewellery 

Did you know that you can clean silver jewellery with Soda Crystals? To get your silver back to its former glory, begin by lining a bowl with aluminium foil. Pour 1 cup of soda crystals into the bowl and then add boiling water.

Make sure that the Soda Crystals have dissolved into the water, and then add your jewellery so that it's fully submerged. Leave the jewellery in the solution for a maximum of 10 minutes and then carefully dry with a cloth. 

6. Clear algae from patios & decking

Make up a regular solution of Soda Crystals. Pour the solution over the surface and leave to sit for an hour. Use a firm bristle brush to scrub away any remaining moss and then use a hose, watering can, or a bucket of clean water to rinse. 

7. How to clean oven racks with Soda Crystals 

oven racks
Sparkling!

Struggling to get the racks from your oven or BBQ clean? 

Lay them flat in your bath and fill it up with hot water. Pour in a pack of Soda Crystals and leave to soak for a few hours. They'll rinse off nice and clean!

8. How to clean a toilet bowl with Soda Crystals

There might be better toilet cleaners out there, but Soda Crystals will do a great job of keeping your toilet flowing.

Pour some into your toilet, using a damp toilet brush to swish them around the bowl. It'll freshen up the toilet and stop it from getting blocked. 

If your loo is often getting blocked, you might be wondering if you can flush hair down the toilet. Read our other article to find out!

9. How to clean carpet with Soda Crystals 

Carpets and rugs can start to age after time, and it can be difficult to find a good cleaner for the job. Luckily Soda Crystals have enough cleaning power to restore dull and faded colours. 

Begin by dampening the fibres and then sprinkle the crystals in an even layer on top. Leave them to sit for a few minutes and then use a carpet cleaner to finish. 

10. Clean your chopping boards

chopping board
It's the best way to do it.

Use Liquid Soda Crystals or a regular strength solution to remove staining and grime from your chopping boards. 

Unlike other toxic cleaners, the crystals will leave no odour or taste once rinsed off. 

11. Floor cleaner

Say goodbye to harsh chemicals with this easy-to-make floor cleaner. Simply add a couple of tablespoons of soda crystals to your mop bucket. Make sure the water is nice and warm, and give it a swish around to dissolve the crystals into the water. If you want your floors to smell nice too, why not add some essential oils? 

12. Clean stained china 

Is your favourite mug or teapot stained with coffee or tea? You might think that bleach is the way to go, but this will only mask the stains.  

Soak your mugs in a regular solution overnight and then give them a gentle wipe and rinse the next day to remove those unsightly marks. 

13. Soak grimy pans

pans
They'll be good as new.

If you've ever burnt food on the hob, you'll love this tip! Say goodbye to endless scrubbing and cover the burnt food in a layer of Soda Crystals. Add a small amount of boiling water to the pan. You don't want to completely fill the pan, or the solution will be weakened. 

Leave your pan to sit for a few hours - you can even leave it overnight if it's that bad! You'll be amazed by how easily the solution cuts through grease and carbon. 

Looking for more ways to clean burnt pans? We've got your back. Check out our other article! 

TOP TIP: Never use Soda Crystals to clean aluminium pans. 

14. How to clean grout & tiles with Soda Crystals

Is the grout between your tiles looking less than white? Soda Crystals are excellent at cutting through years of grime and muck. Make a strong solution and use a sponge or an old toothbrush to clean. 

15. Clean your hob 

For a hob that'll sparkle, use Liquid Soda Crystals. Spread the liquid over the surface of the hob and leave to work it's magic for a few minutes. Wipe off with a sponge, making sure to rinse off all residue.

Want more hob cleaning hacks? Take a look at our video...

How to use Soda Crystals in your washing machine 

16. Stain removing boost

remove stains
It'll be gone in a flash.

Red wine, fake tan or pasta sauce? No stain is too difficult to remove. 

Add some extra stain-removing power to your wash by adding 1 tbsp of Soda Crystals to your chosen detergent. 

17. Pre-soak treatment 

Tougher stains will require a pre-soak treatment. Fill your sink or a large bowl with warm water and 200-500g of Soda Crystals, depending on the size of the garment. You want the solution to be quite strong. Leave the garment to soak in the solution for one hour and then wash as normal.

18. How to clean your washing machine with Soda Crystals

Follow Dri Pak's step-by-step guide!

Is your washing machine filthy, smelly or just in need of a little TLC? If you're consistently washing your clothes at a low temperature, mould is likely to grow. The growth of mould and bacteria produces an unpleasant smell. Don't worry - Soda Crystals can fix this! 

Every month, put 500g of Soda Crystals into the drum and run your washing machine on a hot cycle. 

19. Soften water

Want to save money? Of course, you do!

Add some Soda Crystals to the detergent drawer and you won't need to use as much washing powder or liquid. This is because the detergent will be able to tackle stains easily in softened water. Just think how much less detergent you'll be using now! 

20. Make your towels fluffy again 

blue bathroom towels

Towels can become stiff due to a build-up of washing product. To get them to their former fluffy state, they just need a good clean to strip all of the product build-up. 

Soak them in a regular solution of Soda Crystals with warm water. Leave them for at least 10 minutes and then rinse off any residue. Place them into your washing machine and put on a standard wash. For really soft towels, you can use vinegar in place of fabric softener! 

More Mrs Hinch favourites

Love Mrs Hinch? So do we! Check out our video on uses for The Pink Stuff:

If you're a fan of Hinching, or just looking for some other new cleaning products to try, check these out next:

 Q&A

Can I make a Soda Crystal cleaning solution? 

The great thing about Soda Crystals is that you can adjust their concentration with water. If you want more guidance on how to make different solution strengths, follow this guide:

  1. Strong - Use 1 cup for every 500ml of hot water
  2. Regular - Use 1/2 a cup for every 500ml of hot water
  3. Mild - Use 1 tbsp for every 500ml of hot water. 

What are caustic Soda Crystals? 

Caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) and Soda Crystals (sodium carbonate decahydrate) are very different products. Caustic soda and Soda Crystals have one common use: they can both be used to clear drains. Caustic soda is much stronger and is corrosive, but Soda Crystals are just an irritant. 

Where can I buy Soda Crystals? 

Most supermarkets will stock Soda Crystals alongside other laundry detergents. The main retailers include Home Bargains, Savers, Tesco and Amazon. 

What are Soda Crystals made of? 

Soda Crystals are made of Sodium Carbonate Decahydrate. 

Are Soda Crystals the same as baking soda?

No. Soda Crystals and baking soda are very different. One can be used in baking, but the other can't be consumed. They both have incredible cleaning powder.  

What happens if you mix Soda Crystals and bleach? 

You should never mix bleach with other cleaning products. You could end up producing poisonous chlorine gas. 

Are Soda Crystals environmentally friendly? 

Soda Crystals are free from bleach and don't contain enzymes or phosphates. They're also biodegradable.  

Are Soda Crystals cruelty-free? 

Soda Crystals are vegan-friendly and aren't tested on animals. 

What are liquid Soda Crystals?

Liquid Soda Crystals can be used for more versatile cleaning. The product is a premixed Soda Crystal solution, eliminating the need to dilute the crystals yourself. It makes it much easier to clean hard to reach places, countertops, tiles and more. 

Can Soda Crystals reduce swelling? 

For a long time, people have thought that the crystals can be used to reduce swelling around a joint. Dri-Pak, the company who supplies the popular product, has advised that an ice pack is just as effective. 

 

Do you use soda crystals for anything else? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!

 

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. At no additional cost to the reader, we earn a commission if you click through to one of our recommended products and make a purchase. 

Joanne A

Editor

Expert in finding beautiful solutions for small and rented spaces. Would happily spend the rest of my life shopping for homewares and watching Disney movies - I only wish I had Cinderella's army of mice to help me clean!

  1. Author Anita Henry on March 8, 2019 at 8:46 am

    It says you can’t consume Soda crystals, but one section says put into water for cooking veg!

    1. Author Joanne A on March 8, 2019 at 2:45 pm

      Hi Anita! It's only a very small amount to stop them from browning. You should then rinse the food thoroughly to make sure to get the Soda Crystals off.

    2. Author Dianne Campbell on July 19, 2019 at 9:29 am

      My grandma always used a tiny amount of Bicarbonate of soda in the water when cooking cabbage. It cooked very quickly and kept its colour. This is what I do now.

    3. Author mrs m on July 20, 2019 at 9:30 am

      I used to do this t keep the green colour of veg but later read it can deprive you of vitamin c so re think doing this.

    4. Author L Jones on August 9, 2022 at 4:20 pm

      Vitamin C is broken down by cooking, or dissolves into the water, I understand - but if the cooking liquid is consumed too, at least some is retained.

    Reply
  2. Author Linda Badham on March 8, 2019 at 10:02 am

    I love soda crystals. I always use them for all cleaning.They are amazing, they are animal friendly and environmental friendly.You can't ask for more .

    1. Author Joanne A on March 8, 2019 at 2:43 pm

      You really can't! We love them.

    Reply
  3. Author Donna Tank on March 8, 2019 at 11:53 am

    Soda crystals are brilliant for washing down dirty paintwork . Dilute two scoops with hot water and wash wall or doors with a sponge .

    1. Author Joanne A on March 8, 2019 at 2:43 pm

      Thanks for sharing, Donna!

    2. Author arfan aslam khan on March 26, 2021 at 10:27 pm

      Hi Anita, i USED CRYSTAL SODA TODAY FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY WASHING MACHINE ON towels,AND NOTICED AT END OF WASH THAT MY towels BECAME DISCOLOURED.CAN YOU PLEASE why IT HAPPENED AND ruined MY TOWELS.

    3. Author Joanne A on April 16, 2021 at 4:15 pm

      I'm sorry to hear that! How much did you use and at what temperature? They're great for stripping build-up from fabrics, but they might have performed a bit too well for you!

    Reply
  4. Author Karen on March 8, 2019 at 7:56 pm

    Are soda crystals suitable for use with a septic tank?

    1. Author Joanne A on March 11, 2019 at 9:25 am

      Hi Karen! Yes, they are.

    Reply
  5. Author Brian Goodspeed on March 8, 2019 at 10:29 pm

    Would Soda Crystals get the burnt on and other hard to remove fat deposits off my Deep Fat Fryer, please?

    1. Author Joanne A on March 11, 2019 at 9:33 am

      Hi Brian! It should be perfect for this.

    2. Author Cristina on April 4, 2019 at 11:06 am

      Use dishwasher powder to clean a yucky deep fat fryer - just leave it to soak for a bit and it wipes off easily.

    3. Author Joanne A on April 4, 2019 at 12:15 pm

      Another great suggestion! Thanks, Cristina.

    Reply
  6. Author Jan on March 9, 2019 at 6:34 am

    Can soda crystals keep the kettle clean - or a water heater..???

    1. Author Joanne A on March 11, 2019 at 9:34 am

      Hi Jan! I have heard of people using soda crystals to clean their kettles, but I haven't tried it myself. I'm not sure how good it would be at removing limescale. You'd probably be better off trying a vinegar treatment.

    2. Author Kerry on May 19, 2019 at 1:23 pm

      Use citric acid about a tablespoon to about 2 cups of water and boil the kettle and leave for 10 mins, if there’s still limescale just reboil the kettle with the solution you’ve just boiled . After rinse well and fill kettle with fresh water and boil and empty. Nice clean kettle!

    Reply
  7. Author karen coates on March 10, 2019 at 8:08 pm

    use for cleaning teapots & kettles

    1. Author Joanne A on March 11, 2019 at 9:25 am

      Great idea, Karen!

    Reply
  8. Author Ruth on June 14, 2019 at 7:18 pm

    I soak the BBQ in hot water with soda crystals and a tiny bit of dishwasher liquid. The fat etc comes of lovely with the rough end of the sponge. No yucky build up.

    1. Author Joanne A on June 17, 2019 at 10:13 am

      Great tip! Thanks Ruth.

    Reply
  9. Author Aileen on June 20, 2019 at 12:05 pm

    I remember being shown to add food colouring and some white musk oil to them in home economics at school, many, many moons ago to make bath chrysalis that we then put in a jar with a ribbon around the top as a present for our parents.

    1. Author Joanne A on June 20, 2019 at 12:37 pm

      I bet that'd make a lovely gift!

    Reply
  10. Author Gill on June 24, 2019 at 9:41 pm

    Hi can soda crystals be used in a dishwasher?

    1. Author Joanne A on July 1, 2019 at 4:29 pm

      Hi Gill! Soda crystals shouldn't be used in the dishwasher, especially not in place of dishwasher salts.

    Reply
  11. Author Vic on July 27, 2019 at 4:51 pm

    Hi can soda crystals be used to stop the smell of dog and cat urine.

    1. Author Joanne A on July 29, 2019 at 10:13 am

      Hi Vic! Where is the smell coming from?

    2. Author Lou on March 3, 2020 at 3:46 pm

      My cat pee'd on the carpet, can I use soda crystals to clean this?

    3. Author Joanne A on March 5, 2020 at 4:03 pm

      Hi Lou! You can use soda crystals to clean carpets. That said, I would opt for an enzyme cleaner when tackling urine. Cat urine can be especially potent!

    4. Author susan simpson on May 24, 2021 at 7:25 pm

      use bicarbonate of soda it neutralizes cat pee

    5. Author Joanne A on February 1, 2023 at 12:25 pm

      Great tip! You can sprinkle baking soda on the affected area, let it sit for a while, and then vacuum it up or clean it with a damp cloth. This can help remove the odour and reduce the acidity of the urine, which can help prevent further staining.

    Reply
  12. Author Mick PORTBURY on July 28, 2019 at 8:03 am

    Another great use for soda crystals is,if you have been bitten by mosquitoes and if they are very itchy,get a small saucer with a tiny amount of water,get a crystal,dip it into the water,and rub the wet crystal over the bite and area. Leave to dry,this cleans the bite and leaves a powdery layer over the area,this will also stop the itching.

    1. Author Joanne A on July 29, 2019 at 10:18 am

      That's interesting, Mick! I hadn't heard of that before.

    Reply
  13. Author krystina on July 30, 2019 at 11:04 am

    Hi. Our new vinyl bedroom wallpaper had a strong odour when new and we thought this would go once up on the walls. 3 months in and this is not the case. Would a solution of soda crystals be worth a try to wash down the walls with to eliminate the odour?

    1. Author Joanne A on July 30, 2019 at 12:26 pm

      Hi Krystina! It could work. The best thing would be to ventilate the room as much as possible for a few weeks.

    Reply
  14. Author Emma on August 25, 2019 at 3:29 pm

    Hi, Will treating plug holes with soda crystals remove bio film?

    1. Author Joanne A on August 27, 2019 at 11:48 am

      Hi Emma! It should do.

    Reply
  15. Author Tracey Bovan on October 3, 2019 at 9:01 am

    Best thing ever for laundry. I put it in all my washing. Gets all my filthy kids clothes clean. Even my partner's building gear. Doesn't aggravate kids eczema

    1. Author Joanne A on October 3, 2019 at 11:20 am

      That's great!

    Reply
  16. Author Joy Skinner on October 7, 2019 at 7:25 pm

    I was brought up to believe that you should NEVER use soda crystals when cooking green vegetables because although the crystals give them an attractive bright green colour when cooked they destroy all their nutritional value. Is this not true?

    1. Author Joanne A on October 8, 2019 at 11:40 am

      Hi Joy! Yes, that is thought to be true. We've updated the article - thanks for pointing that out!

    Reply
  17. Author Pippa Wood on October 8, 2019 at 10:51 am

    Hi .... if soda crystals are not to be consumed why does the pack say they are suitable for vegans?

    1. Author Joanne A on October 8, 2019 at 11:37 am

      Hi there! Being suitable for vegans is a label that can apply to food, clothing, beauty products and more. It means that the item contains no animal products e.g. a duvet could be suitable for vegans, because it does not contain feathers. It does not mean that the item is edible. Hope that helps!

    Reply
  18. Author Val Smith on October 15, 2019 at 12:45 am

    Soda crystals are the best kept secret. I used them in every wash I do. People often comment how white my whites are. The are very reasonable and the best price I’ve seen them is at home bargains. Just make sure you keep them in a airtight container once opened.

    1. Author Joanne A on October 15, 2019 at 9:58 am

      Great tip, Val!

    2. Author M Gibbs on November 15, 2019 at 9:48 am

      I store mine in an old vanish plastic tub along with a scoop. A full packet fills about one and a half large tubs.

    3. Author Joanne A on November 18, 2019 at 11:59 am

      Fantastic idea! I'm going to try this. :-)

    Reply
  19. Author Christine on December 20, 2019 at 12:05 am

    I put soda crystals into a empty shake and vac tub to make it easier to shake onto carpets and upholstery etc they are great and cheap for a lot of cleaning around the house

    1. Author Joanne A on December 20, 2019 at 10:21 am

      That's a fab idea!

    Reply
  20. Author Jason Peterson on December 30, 2019 at 2:49 pm

    It is a decent degreaser. Good for wiping dust mixed with grease off walls. Good for cleaning plastic items that can't be scrubbed or shouldn't be scratched, such as food processors or exterior of a coffee machine, stains from vegetables or fruit. Note that there is usually Aluminum inside a laundry machine (silumin alloy), as a device of planned obsolescence that degrades over time in acid or alkali. Pure aluminuium can be cleaned, it turns bright white. Sodium Carbonate and Bicarbonate both turn into table salt should they be consumed (and both are disgusting). Caustic soda really is okay to use with care, economical and so strong that a wet cloth is enough, and can avoid water dripping into electronics or soaking cardboard. I would not use impure caustic soda with colorants, aromas or soap.

    Reply
  21. Author Dee on January 7, 2020 at 11:07 am

    I use it as my laundry detergent. It's cheap, it cleans the clothes well and it's not only good for the environment, it's good for the washing machine, as you get no normal laundry detergent 'filler' building up in your machine.

    1. Author Joanne A on January 7, 2020 at 11:57 am

      We love an eco-friendly solution!

    Reply
  22. Author Mrs M on January 7, 2020 at 11:57 am

    can you use soda crystals to wash up the things you don't put in the dishwasher? I am looking for a way to use a product that doesn't come in a plastic bottle to do those pans and things that don't go in the dishwasher.

    1. Author Joanne A on January 7, 2020 at 11:58 am

      Hi there! Soda crystals do still come in plastic packaging.

    2. Author Lynda on November 7, 2020 at 12:30 pm

      They come in a strong paper bag in my healthfood store (admittedly in France)

    3. Author Joanne A on November 10, 2020 at 4:44 pm

      Thanks for sharing, Lynda!

    Reply
  23. Author Tina on January 30, 2020 at 11:30 pm

    Can you use soda crystals in with your wash to prevent limescale if so would you add it in with the washing powder .

    1. Author Joanne A on January 31, 2020 at 12:16 pm

      The best thing to do would be to run a cycle with 500g of soda crystals.

    Reply
  24. Author Rachel on February 6, 2020 at 2:21 am

    Weird question, but do you think they would get dried blood out of white fabric? I've tried Vanish to no avail and my next step is maybe Hydrogen Peroxide..

    1. Author Joanne A on February 6, 2020 at 10:04 am

      Hi Rachel! You could try soaking the stain in a soda crystal solution. Hydrogen peroxide would be more likely to work, though.

    2. Author Sam on February 19, 2021 at 12:55 pm

      My Nanna told me to soak blood stained garment overnight in a bowl of cold salt water..it works!

    3. Author Joanne A on March 30, 2021 at 3:03 pm

      Thanks for sharing!

    4. Author Janice D'Oliveira-Parkinson on November 12, 2022 at 2:37 pm

      Cillit Bang degreaser (green bottle top) works great on blood! I spray on the stain and scrub gently with an old toothbrush!

    5. Author Joanne A on January 23, 2023 at 2:28 pm

      Hi Janice! We're glad that worked for you. However, Cillit Bang is not explicitly designed to remove blood stains. Instead, we recommend a pre-treatment laundry stain remover or a mixture of cold water and laundry detergent. Always check an inconspicuous area of the fabric first.

    Reply
  25. Author Karen renalds on February 21, 2020 at 7:47 pm

    Can it be used to get puppy urine out of carpets is it safe to use where pets walk like carpets

    1. Author Joanne A on February 26, 2020 at 5:00 pm

      Hi Karen! I believe soda crystals make dogs throw up. It's best to keep pets away from areas that you're cleaning until they are completely dry again.

    Reply
  26. Author Margaret on March 4, 2020 at 1:29 pm

    Can I use soda crystals to dissolve limescale around kitchen sink taps. If so, what method would you recommend.

    1. Author Joanne A on March 5, 2020 at 3:24 pm

      Hi Margaret! Normally people use soda crystals to get rid of limescale in the washing machine. For this to work, the limescale needs to be soaked in the soda crystal solution. I think it would be quite difficult to soak your kitchen taps. If the limescale is at the end of the tap, you could try filling a sandwich bag with the solution and tying it onto the end. Leave it to soak for a little while and the limescale should clean off easily. Lots of people use this method with white vinegar, so that could be worth a try too. If the limescale is around the base of the fixture, I would try a different cleaning product. Viakal spray is one of my favourites.

    Reply
  27. Author Emma McGowan on March 4, 2020 at 7:07 pm

    Can they put into a shower head to clean

    1. Author Joanne A on March 5, 2020 at 3:19 pm

      Hi Emma! I'm not sure what you mean. I think you could rinse the showerhead in a solution?

    Reply
  28. Author Margaret Watson on March 19, 2020 at 3:42 pm

    Hi Joanne Can you use soda crystals to get rid of persistent fridge smells? I deep cleaned my fridge last night, including using diluted bleach, but this afternoon the smell is back. Could it be the freezing agent CFC's leaking? What would you recommend?

    1. Author Joanne A on March 25, 2020 at 3:21 pm

      Hi Margaret! You could try it, but I'd use something like baking soda instead. You can put a small dish of it in the fridge to neutralise any odours. You can also get specialised fridge cleaning sprays that would be perfect for deep cleaning.

    2. Author Katherine on February 15, 2022 at 5:41 pm

      Hi Margaret, have you tried cleaning the drain hole in the back of your fridge as I was having the same problem. I prepared some bicarbonate of soda in some water and used a small bottle brush and couldn’t believe how much mould came out from it. I repeated it until clear. The smell went and my fridge worked better too. Good luck!

    3. Author Joanne A on September 28, 2022 at 3:44 pm

      That sounds great!

    Reply
  29. Author Diana MacLean on March 28, 2020 at 1:56 pm

    Hi can I use soda crystals to clean my dishwasher? I wondered about putting them in an empty dishwasher on a hot wash? I have a septic tank and don’t want to use chemicals

    Reply
  30. Author Loulou on April 16, 2020 at 9:50 pm

    Hello! Can I use soda crystal to make home made soap out of used cooking oil? Thank you

    1. Author Joanne A on March 1, 2023 at 10:21 am

      Soda crystals can be used in soap-making to increase alkalinity and aid in the process. To make soap from used cooking oil, you must combine the oil with a strong alkaline solution, such as lye (sodium hydroxide), to create a chemical reaction called saponification. However, using a tested recipe and taking proper safety precautions when making soap with lye is recommended.

    Reply
  31. Author Pauline Price on April 30, 2020 at 9:21 pm

    I use soda Crystals every month. I put them down all my plugholes once a month to keep them running free. After reading all the other things they can be used for I will be ot more of them

    1. Author Joanne A on May 1, 2020 at 5:35 pm

      Thanks for sharing, Pauline! We're glad you found them helpful.

    Reply
  32. Author Rita robinson on May 22, 2020 at 8:00 pm

    My mother use to put soda crystals in the bath it softens the water an eliminate scum.

    1. Author Joanne A on February 24, 2023 at 11:41 am

      Soda crystals can soften hard water and eliminate scum when added to the bath. However, they can irritate the skin and eyes, so it's recommended to use a small amount and rinse thoroughly after bathing.

    Reply
  33. Author Caroline on June 1, 2020 at 10:33 pm

    I put a couple of teaspoons in warm water and wash the windows with this, then squidgy off ! Lovely shiney glass. ( Obviously not for aluminum windows) tks

    1. Author Joanne A on June 2, 2020 at 11:11 am

      That's a great tip!

    Reply
  34. Author Carole on June 8, 2020 at 9:40 am

    Dilution used to remove labels and glue from glass jars

    1. Author Joanne A on June 22, 2020 at 2:46 pm

      Great idea!

    Reply
  35. Author Valerie on June 19, 2020 at 10:03 pm

    Hi Joanne, I have just used a solution of soda crystals on the bedroom. carpet, and the headboard on the bed to remove some stains. Should I rinse them with clear water now? Thanks.

    1. Author Joanne A on February 24, 2023 at 11:25 am

      Yes, rinse the areas where you applied soda crystals with clear water to remove any remaining residue. Then, allow the carpet and headboard to dry fully before using them again.

    Reply
  36. Author Ginny on July 15, 2020 at 12:04 pm

    I also find soda crystals the best thing for soaking your oven gloves in before washing as it removes the Nast Greece that tends to get in to them. Also good for those sweat marks you get on your pillows, just remove colour and soak before washing

    1. Author Joanne A on July 20, 2020 at 5:16 pm

      Great idea! I'll have to give this a try.

    Reply
  37. Author David D on July 16, 2020 at 10:23 am

    Hi Joanne We have a pet dog who's a bit of a stinker. Can I sprinkle the crystal's on our carpets overnight and vacuum them the next day? Would that get rid of the smell? Also would I apply them dry or use a small amount of water when I put then down? Many thanks

    1. Author Joanne A on April 14, 2023 at 12:21 pm

      I would recommend using baking soda instead. Soda crystals are a more potent cleaning agent than baking soda and are generally used for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. They can be used on carpets, but caution should be taken as they can be harsh on some carpet fibres. For example, using soda crystals on wool or silk carpets is not recommended. If you decide to use soda crystals on your carpets, it's best to mix them with water first to make a solution rather than apply them dry. Mix around 1 cup of soda crystals with 1 gallon of warm water to make the solution. Apply the solution to the carpet with a clean cloth or spray bottle, then let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it up with a clean, dry cloth.

    Reply
  38. Author Mary Anne Doran on July 24, 2020 at 8:20 am

    My daughter had really bad eczema as a child and the cleaning product's where making her eczema worse,but when she developed a red ring of eczema on her bum (using a normal household cleaner) it was time for change, after some research I started using soda crystals and had no further problems.

    1. Author Joanne A on July 28, 2020 at 12:07 pm

      That's great to hear!

    Reply
  39. Author Hadyn on August 17, 2020 at 9:53 am

    used on very swollen ankle overnight ,didnt notice too much improvement first thing in morning but by lunch time pain and swelling had reduced dramatically.

    1. Author Joanne A on November 3, 2020 at 12:12 pm

      That's amazing!

    Reply
  40. Author Jack on September 20, 2020 at 11:06 am

    Can it be used on vinyl floor tiles

    1. Author Joanne A on January 23, 2023 at 12:21 pm

      Yes, you can use soda crystals to clean vinyl floor tiles. But be sure to test a small area first to ensure that it doesn't cause any damage, and rinse the tiles thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue.

    Reply
  41. Author Paul Whitsendogs on September 26, 2020 at 6:17 am

    I use the as an emergency method of making a dog vomit if it has eaten harmful food such as grapes, or chocolate. It was recommended by my vet Yeats ago, and has saved many dogs to date.

    1. Author Joanne A on February 16, 2023 at 5:36 pm

      While your vet may have recommended it in the past, more effective and safe methods are available for inducing vomiting in dogs. In addition, inducing vomiting may not always be the appropriate course of action, depending on what the dog has ingested, as it can sometimes cause further harm or complications. Therefore, it's always best to consult your veterinarian or a pet poison control centre before attempting to induce vomiting. They can advise you on the best action and recommend appropriate treatment options for your dog's specific situation.

    Reply
  42. Author Anna on October 8, 2020 at 12:49 am

    I use soda crystals to de-grease riding equipment such as bridles - about once a year, 10 minute dunk in a mild solution and then a fresh application of leather care product such as leather oil or glycerine soap. Gets rid of the old and nasty dirt and grime especially around hard to get at areas like buckles and looks amazing afterwards.

    1. Author Joanne A on November 3, 2020 at 12:07 pm

      Sounds great!

    Reply
  43. Author Jill on November 7, 2020 at 9:30 am

    I have a recipe for home made dishwasher powder. It contains, soda crystals. Citric acid and salt. Is it ok to use in a dishwasher. Tried it once and dishes and glasses were very clean.

    1. Author Joanne A on February 15, 2023 at 4:44 pm

      A homemade dishwasher powder containing soda crystals, citric acid, and salt is generally safe for a dishwasher. Still, it may not be as effective as commercial dishwasher detergents, and it's important to check your dishwasher's user manual before using any homemade detergent.

    Reply
  44. Author Russell Symons on November 10, 2020 at 12:24 pm

    Hello Joanne , can you keep a solution of soda crystals in a trigger spray? Will it's effectiveness lessen over time like a bleach solution? R Symons....

    1. Author Joanne A on February 15, 2023 at 3:47 pm

      It is not recommended to store this solution in a trigger spray bottle for a prolonged period. Over time, the solution's effectiveness may diminish as the sodium carbonate can react with carbon dioxide in the air to form sodium bicarbonate, which is less effective as a cleaning agent. Additionally, the solution may become contaminated with bacteria or other microorganisms, which can also decrease the effectiveness and potentially create a health hazard. If you need to use a soda crystal solution for cleaning, it is best to mix up only as much as you need for immediate use and dispose of any remaining solution after use.

    Reply
  45. Author heather on February 3, 2021 at 12:40 pm

    Re no 13 - grimy pots & pans. With cleaning pots & pans with burnt or sticky residue, also if you heat up the pan on the hob with the soda water solution it removes it much quicker.

    1. Author Joanne A on February 8, 2023 at 5:24 pm

      Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  46. Author Jess on December 19, 2021 at 12:11 pm

    Hi can I use soda crystals to clean my sofa fabric arms as they are so grubby?

    1. Author Joanne A on March 17, 2023 at 5:02 pm

      Check the care label on your sofa to ensure it can be safely cleaned with soda crystals. If it's safe to clean, mix soda crystals with warm water to form a paste and apply it to the grubby areas before rinsing thoroughly with water.

    Reply
  47. Author Jasmine on January 31, 2022 at 9:04 am

    Hi Joanne, Just wonder if Soda Crystal solution is fine for pans and pots with non sticky coating. Thanks very much for advice

    1. Author Joanne A on January 25, 2023 at 12:28 pm

      Soda crystals can be used to clean pots and pans with non-stick coatings, but it's essential to use them with caution and not to use them excessively or leave them for too long. Instead, use a small amount of soda crystals; scrub gently, then rinse thoroughly with water.

    Reply
  48. Author christine fitzgibbon. on March 7, 2022 at 9:30 pm

    Hi can this product be used in the washing machine to keep white white please as the washing liquid I have to use because of my allergy asthma has no brightener in it :( If so how much for a 4.5 KG load?

    1. Author Joanne A on March 8, 2023 at 5:38 pm

      Soda crystals can be used in the washing machine to keep whites white. For a 4.5 kg load, add 1 cup (250 ml) of soda crystals to your wash.

    Reply
  49. Author MK on March 21, 2022 at 8:22 pm

    Why do I need to use aluminum foil to line the bowl for cleaning silver? Does the aluminum react with the soda crystals? Or is there another purpose?

    1. Author Joanne A on November 15, 2022 at 12:16 pm

      Aluminium foil is more reactive than silver and creates an electrochemical process.

    Reply
  50. Author Polly on April 22, 2022 at 3:53 pm

    Can I use soda crystals to clean a stained white sink?

    1. Author Joanne A on November 3, 2022 at 5:18 pm

      You certainly can!

    Reply
  51. Author Lynds on May 8, 2022 at 3:57 pm

    Do I need to wer rubber gloves when using Soda Crystals?

    1. Author Joanne A on May 16, 2022 at 5:41 pm

      Hi Lynds! Yes, we would suggest wearing rubber gloves.

    Reply
  52. Author Anna on May 27, 2022 at 10:09 am

    Can you use soda crystals if you have run out of washing up liquid.

    1. Author Joanne A on November 3, 2022 at 5:20 pm

      It might work, though it's probably not the best substitute.

    Reply
  53. Author Margaret M on August 15, 2022 at 12:00 pm

    Sprinkle it on slippery, mossy paths and slabs. It kills the moss which can then be brushed off.

    1. Author Joanne A on September 5, 2022 at 5:26 pm

      Interesting idea!

    Reply
  54. Author Harper on October 2, 2022 at 6:18 pm

    I sprinkle soda crystals on my drive where there is moss growing,brush in with a soft brush and leave, great moss killer and eco friendly.ps cheaper than garden weedkillers.

    1. Author Joanne A on October 28, 2022 at 10:13 am

      Lovely idea!

    Reply
  55. Author Mark on February 5, 2023 at 11:02 am

    Soda crystals work great for cleaning dirty greasy chainsaw chains just mix with hot water and let the chain soak for about 5-10 minutes be sure to rinse good. Wala your chain is clean!

    1. Author Joanne A on February 6, 2023 at 5:06 pm

      Thanks for sharing! That's true. It's essential to rinse the chain thoroughly after soaking to remove any residue and to avoid any potential damage to the chain or the saw. It's always a good idea to check the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning the chain, as using specific cleaning agents could void the warranty.

    Reply
  56. Author Brian on June 1, 2023 at 12:24 pm

    Hello Can I use your Soda Crystals to soften our very hard water here in the South for washing our cars, or can it affect the paintwork. Cheers Brian

    1. Author Joanne A on June 19, 2023 at 10:11 am

      While soda crystals can help soften hard water, it's important to note that they are alkaline. Using soda crystals to soften water for washing cars may have some cleaning benefits, but prolonged or concentrated exposure to alkaline substances can potentially affect the paintwork or finish of the vehicle. It's generally recommended to use dedicated car wash products or consult with automotive experts to ensure the safety and preservation of the paintwork.

    Reply
  57. Author Mrs Rosemary Manthorpe on June 17, 2023 at 10:18 pm

    Is it safe to use a teaspoon of soda crystals when hand washing dishes along with my regular washing up liquid? I live in a hard water area and it makes the water lather up better as well as removing grease. I don't have a dish washer and wash up at the kitchen sink. I'm not sure if I need to rinse everything in plain water afterwards.

    1. Author Joanne A on June 19, 2023 at 10:01 am

      A teaspoon of soda crystals and regular washing-up liquid can improve lathering and grease removal, particularly in hard water areas. However, it's important to rinse your dishes thoroughly with plain water afterwards to prevent any potential residue or taste issues.

    Reply
  58. Author Mary on September 13, 2023 at 11:22 am

    If you have a gnat bite, damp the area & rub soda crystals on it & this will help ease any itching.

    1. Author Joanne A on September 19, 2023 at 9:24 am

      Thanks for sharing! We would suggest baking soda for this rather than soda crystals. The effectiveness of this method can vary from person to person. Always consult a healthcare professional if you experience severe or allergic reactions or have open sores or sensitive skin.

    Reply

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