There are several terms for baking soda used in everyday life – and that is exactly what often causes confusion. Yet, it is quite simple:
Baking soda (Natron) and sodium bicarbonate are just two names for the same thing = NaHCO₃, a fine white powder.
Do not confuse: baking soda is not washing soda!
Another point that really matters: Washing soda is something different than baking soda.
Washing soda is stronger and used differently (mainly for laundry and cleaning, but not "like baking soda").
Baking powder is a mixture
Baking powder is not a single substance, but a mixture, usually consisting of: baking soda, an acidifying agent (e.g., cream of tartar), and starch.
Perfect for baking because it makes the dough rise.
It sometimes works for cleaning too – but if you want to clean effectively, pure baking soda (BIKA) is the better choice because you know exactly what is in it.
And BIKA? That is our product name: Here at HELESHOP, BIKA stands for baking soda (NaHCO₃) in a practical household format. BIKA is an eco-friendly cleaning agent: 100% ecological, ready to use, and packaged in a paper bag. If you use a lot, you can also get BIKA in a 5 kg bag – which is both economically sensible and ecological, as it results in less packaging per kilo.
What you can use baking soda for at home
Baking soda is particularly practical because it works as an all-purpose bathroom & universal cleaner in many situations – you often don't need ten different products.
The classic: Baking soda cleaning paste
A paste is often the quickest starting point because it works well on many surfaces.
You need:
- 2–3 tbsp baking soda
- 1 splash of dish soap
- a few drops of water (only until the consistency is right)
How it works: Mix everything together, apply thinly, let it sit for a short time, then wipe off with a damp cloth and rinse.
Typical areas of use: sink, stove area, range hood (grease film), baking tray, casserole dish. For stubborn spots, it is better to let it sit instead of scrubbing hard. (This is exactly how baking soda as a cleaner is most pleasant to use in everyday life.)
13 simple ideas: baking soda for cleaning
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Refrigerator: Small dish of baking soda to combat odors (replace regularly).
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Trash can: sprinkle some baking soda under the trash bag.
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Shoes: sprinkle lightly in the evening, shake out/vacuum in the morning.
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Sink: baking soda paste, let sit briefly, wipe off.
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Faucets & ceramics: clean gently, then wipe with clear water.
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Grout: apply paste, brush carefully, rinse off.
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Range hood: against grease film (paste), then wipe with a damp cloth.
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Baking tray/casserole dish: let paste sit, then clean.
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Burnt pot: baking soda paste or baking soda solution, let sit.
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Cutting board: dampen, rub in baking soda, rinse (removes odors).
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Trash can lid: clean with paste (odors & buildup).
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Carpet/upholstery: sprinkle lightly, let sit, vacuum (test beforehand).
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Drain (maintenance): 1–2 tbsp baking soda, flush with hot water (regularly).
Important: For textiles/carpets, always test in an inconspicuous area first (material and color).
What baking soda (BIKA) is not ideal for
Baking soda is practical – but: it is mildly abrasive. On very sensitive surfaces, fine particles can cause micro-scratches, especially if you scrub dry.
Better to avoid baking soda on:
- Mirrors and very sensitive high-gloss surfaces
- Aluminum
- Natural stone like marble or granite
- Wood surfaces (varnished/oiled: be especially careful)
Baking soda (BIKA) = mild all-purpose cleaner. Washing soda = stronger specialist.
If you are looking for baking soda as a cleaner, you are making the right choice with BIKA: baking soda (NaHCO₃), clearly labeled, versatile – and as an eco-friendly cleaning agent, it is 100% ecological and packaged in a paper bag. For those who use it often, the 5 kg bulk pack is a particularly practical and ecological option.
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If you want more recipes and cleaning hacks, check our blog regularly or Instagram, where you can find more videos and tips.
