A cleaning expert has revealed the secret to banishing stubborn household smells and it’s likely sitting in your kitchen cupboard right now.
For those who find their homes frequently filled with the strong scents of ingredients like garlic or fish, or for those sharing their space with pets or someone who hits the gym regularly, battling persistent smells is all too familiar.
Even with regular emptying, laundry baskets and kitchen bins can be a constant source of unpleasant aromas. But there’s good news: a budget-friendly pantry favourite, endorsed by cleaning aficionados, promises to swiftly eliminate these unwelcome stenches.
Baking powder, a common item found in many kitchen cupboards, is readily available at major supermarkets such as Asda and Aldi for 65p, or even less at Tesco for 57p, reports the Express.
Colby Short, CEO and co-founder of GetAgent, has divulged the optimal method for employing baking powder to freshen up your home. “Baking powder is a great, natural deodoriser,” he said.
He suggests sprinkling it on any soft surface that needs refreshing, leaving it to work its magic (preferably overnight) and then simply vacuuming it away the following day.
Short also revealed an alternative use for this adaptable ingredient, adding: “Top tip – you can also use baking powder instead of buying scented litter if you have cats. It’s less off-putting to them so will keep your furry friend happy, while diminishing the smell inside your home.”
The composition of baking powder includes bicarbonate of soda, commonly known as baking soda, combined with cream of tartar. Bicarbonate of soda is a favourite among cleaning gurus and enthusiasts, with numerous baking powder cleaning tips circulating on social media.
One common method involves combining it with water to form a paste that can tackle stubborn kitchen stains.
It’s also useful in the bathroom, where you can clean your loo by sprinkling a cup of baking soda into it, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Shut the lid and let it sit for half an hour before scrubbing the bowl with a toilet brush and flushing.
Adding a spoonful of baking soda to liquid laundry soap can also help remove stains and brighten clothes.