Uses for Baking Soda in the Kitchen - Continued

If you have baking soda that is not fresh anymore, use it with your cleaning supplies.  Do not use it for cooking needs.  Drains profit from a good baking soda rinse on a regular basis even without vinegar.

Create your own dishwasher detergent by mixing two tablespoons baking soda with two tablespoons borax.  Sprinkle a handful of baking soda over dirty dishes, loaded but not washed and in the bottom of your dishwasher to absorb odors.  This extra baking soda will take the place of detergent in your first cycle so you only need to add detergent to the second cycle.  Freshen your dishwasher by adding half a box of baking soda and running the dishwasher just through a rinse cycle. 

Keep any coffee maker clean by brewing up one-quart warm water and one-fourth cup baking soda.  Doing this regularly will keep your coffee tasting great. Clean a coffee filter basket by wetting it first and then covering the inside with baking soda.  Let it set for a while before brushing it clean with a vegetable brush or old toothbrush to get in the crevices and then rinse it well.  Remove rust stains and mineral deposits from teapots and coffee pots by filling them with water, two tablespoons baking soda, and the juice of half a lemon.  Boil for fifteen minutes and then rinse.  Clean coffee cups with a paste of baking soda by rubbing it on with your fingertip and a soft damp cloth. 

Every refrigerator and freezer can use an open box of baking soda in it to guard against unwanted and stale odors.  It is recommended to change the box every three months.  You can also wash the walls in the refrigerator with baking soda.  Sprinkle baking soda in the bins to keep them smelling fresh.  Cover the layer with a paper towel and replace every three months.  Remove rust streaks and food residue inside your refrigerator with a paste of baking soda and water.