How to Freshen Smelly Sponges and Cloths with Bicarbonate of Soda
A bicarb soak freshens sour-smelling sponges and cloths.
Takes 30–60 minutes
What you’ll need
- 4 tbsp Bicarbonate of Soda
- Container or bowl
- 250 ml Hot water
Method
- Combine 4 tablespoons of Bicarbonate of Soda in 250 ml of hot water in a container until fully dissolved.
- Soak your sponges in the solution for 30 minutes to one hour.
- Rinse, wring out and allow them to dry naturally and they will smell fresh and new.
Use regularly to freshen up stale-smelling sponges and cloths.
Bicarb neutralises the acidic smells bacteria leave behind.
The science: Sodium bicarbonate (PubChem, NIH) →
Glass:
Despite being a mild abrasive cleaner, Bicarbonate of Soda has the potential to scratch glass and mirrors, so it‘s best to avoid using it on these surfaces.
Aluminium:
When using Bicarbonate of Soda to clean aluminium surfaces like pans, it can cause oxidisation over time, which turns the surface brown. If you must use Bicarbonate of Soda on aluminium pots and pans, make sure to rinse them immediately after.
Natural Stone:
Avoid using Bicarbonate of Soda on natural stone surfaces like quartz, marble, and granite. Repeated use can damage the sealant and leave scratches on the stone.
Sealed Wood::
Bicarbonate of Soda can damage or wear away the finish or sealant on wood furniture, leaving a dull appearance, so it‘s best to avoid using it on wooden surfaces.
Antique Silver:
While Bicarbonate of Soda can quickly remove tarnish from silverware, it‘s too abrasive and can cause it to lose its patina and tarnish more quickly over time.
Gold-Plated Items::
Gold is a soft metal, so using Bicarbonate of Soda to clean gold-plated utensils or dishes can scratch and ruin the finish. Prolonged use can cause the plating to wear off, so it‘s best to avoid using Bicarbonate of Soda on these items.
Store Bicarbonate of Soda sealed tightly, in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children and pets.
While Bicarbonate of Soda is generally considered a very safe cleaning agent, it is always a good idea to wear rubber gloves if you have highly sensitive skin to prevent dryness. Alternatively, rinse your hands thoroughly after use and avoid contact with your eyes as it can cause redness.
B&M Pro-Tip 1:
Don’t waste the leftover water in the kettle; hot water helps here too. Hot or cold water? →
B&M Pro-Tip 2:
Tea Tree Essential Oil helps with musty smells in sponges and cloths. Which oil for which job →
Quick questions
Does it kill germs?
It freshens. Wash cloths hot regularly too.
Microfibre cloths too?
Yes. Avoid fabric softener on microfibre.
Try this next: All-Purpose Cleaner →
