Baking soda might seem like an ordinary pantry item, but don’t underestimate its power. This inexpensive white powder is incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of uses for cleaning, personal care, and more. Here are 13 smart and surprising ways to use baking soda that could save you time, money, and effort around the house.

1. Say Goodbye to Sticky Labels

Trying to reuse old jars but can’t get rid of that stubborn label glue? Fill a pot with hot water and a spoonful of baking soda, then let the jar soak for about 30 minutes. The residue will peel off with ease. Wash, dry, and your jar is ready to go!

2. A Natural Produce Cleaner

Worried about dirt or pesticide residue on your fruits and veggies? Sprinkle baking soda on them and scrub under running water. For convenience, mix it with water in a spray bottle and give your produce a good spritz before rinsing.

3. DIY Lip Exfoliator

Chapped lips? No problem. Mix a small amount of baking soda with honey to create a gentle lip scrub. Rub it in softly, then rinse. Your lips will feel smooth and refreshed in minutes.

4. Restore Jewelry Shine

Your rings and necklaces looking a little dull? Use a soft toothbrush dipped in baking soda to gently polish silver or diamond jewelry. Rinse and let dry. It’s safe, simple, and brings back the sparkle without harsh chemicals.

5. Multi-Surface Cleaner

Skip the store-bought cleaners and try this eco-friendly alternative: Mix baking soda with lemon juice to create a paste. Use it to clean greasy pans, kitchen counters, or cabinet surfaces. It’s effective and leaves a fresh citrus scent.

6. Eliminate Drawer Odors

Freshen up drawers or closets by placing a small container filled with baking soda and a few drops of essential oil inside. Cover with a lid, punch in a few holes, and let it work its magic absorbing odors and releasing pleasant scents.

7. Brighten Discolored Nails

Nails turned yellow from polish or stress? Blend baking soda with hydrogen peroxide and apply to your nails. Wait ten minutes before rinsing. It gently lifts stains and leaves your nails looking clean and refreshed.

8. Streak-Free Glass Spray

For shiny, streak-free windows and mirrors, mix baking soda, lemon juice, and water in a spray bottle. Spritz onto glass and wipe clean with a soft cloth for a clear, spotless finish—no toxic chemicals needed.

9. Revive Plush Toys

Stuffed animals can collect dust and odors over time. Toss them in a large bag, sprinkle with baking soda, shake well, and let sit. Then vacuum off the excess powder to leave them fresh and clean—perfect for delicate toys you can’t toss in the wash.

10. Refresh Your Dishwasher

Got a funky smell coming from your dishwasher? Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom before bed. In the morning, run an empty cycle. The smell will vanish, and your machine will smell clean and fresh.

11. Natural Teeth Whitener

Mix a pinch of baking soda with your toothpaste and brush gently for one minute. It’s a natural way to help remove surface stains and brighten your smile—especially helpful if you have sensitive teeth.

12. Speedy Toilet Cleaner

Short on time? Sprinkle baking soda into your toilet bowl and scrub with a brush. It cuts through stains and odors quickly, leaving the bowl clean and fresh without any harsh chemicals.

13. Gentle Face & Body Scrub

Baking soda works great as a mild exfoliator. Mix with a little water or your favorite cleanser to buff away dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smoother and looking more radiant.