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Some materials may be affected by baking soda due to its abrasiveness
Baking soda is a real star among household cleaning products. However, some materials can be affected by baking soda due to its abrasiveness and pH levels. Martha Stewart, a publication of Martha Stewart, reports where using baking soda can cause scratches, loss of lustre or even permanent damage.
Stains on delicate fabrics
Baking soda may seem like a great way to get stains out of fabrics, but not in the case of delicate materials. Its abrasive structure damages the fibres, causing the fabric to weaken or even tear.
In addition, soda leaves behind a white residue that is difficult to wash. It is especially dangerous for silk, satin, lace, velvet, chiffon and cashmere. For these items, it is better to use delicate washing or dry cleaning.
Leather goods
Leather needs special care, and baking soda is not suitable for this. It can strip the material of the natural oils that give it its softness and elasticity.
Over time, the skin can become dry, stiff and begin to crack. It is much safer to clean leather with warm water and a drop of liquid soap or a special leather care product.
Wooden furniture and flooring
Want to freshen up your wooden surface quickly? Don’t go for baking soda. It can damage the lacquer coating, make the surface dull or leave scratches. Wood is a sensitive material, so it’s better to choose mild products and gentle cleaning.
Electronic devices
Smartphones, laptops, TVs and other gadgets have extremely delicate screens. Even minor rubbing with baking soda can leave micro scratches. To safely remove fingerprints or dust, it’s best to use a special screen liquid and a soft microfibre.
Woollen products
Wool is a natural material that can be severely damaged by the alkaline environment of soda. It destroys the structure of the fibres, causing things to lose their shape, softness and insulating properties. For washing wool it is better to choose special products with neutral pH and follow the recommendations on the label.
Jewellery and gemstones
Soda is not suitable for cleaning jewellery, especially if it is gemstones, pearls or delicate metals. It can damage the surface, scratch the shiny coating and reduce the attractiveness of the piece. It is better to wash your jewellery in a solution of water with a drop of liquid soap and wipe it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Aluminium surfaces
Soda should not be used to wash aluminium cookware, appliances or grill grates. Its abrasiveness can leave scratches and its alkaline environment can cause dullness or even discolouration. Instead, use mild detergents with a neutral pH and a soft sponge or cloth.
Brightly coloured clothes brightly coloured clothes
Baking soda has a weak bleaching effect, which has a negative effect on coloured fabrics. Frequent use can gradually discolour things, making colours dull. To preserve brightness, choose laundry products for coloured clothes and avoid experimenting with baking soda.
