Use baking soda for cleaning these kitchen items:

• Drains
• Refrigerator
• Trash can, diaper pail, hamper
• Dishwasher
• Garbage disposal
• Tea stain on mug
• Burnt-on food
• Non-abrasive stovetop cleaner

Quick tips: Sprinkle a little baking soda in a gym bag to keep it smelling fresh. Add 1/2 cup baking soda to liquid laundry detergent for fresh-smelling and cleaner clothes.

• Bath: Add 1/2 cup to a warm bath to soothe and condition skin.
• Facial: Add 3 parts baking soda to 1 part olive oil, then apply in a circular motion after washing face with regular soap. It works on dry skin on the body as well.
• Teeth: Brush your teeth with it -- and it’s also used to clean dentures, retainers and mouth guards. Add 2 teaspoons to a bowl of water.
• Foot soak: Soak feet in 3 tablespoons to a basin of warm water.
• Bee stings: Make a paste of water and baking soda to soothe irritation and remove stinger.

• Washing produce
• Leavening
• Extinguishing fires

Since it has so many uses, separate boxes of baking soda may be bought for cooking, cleaning and bathing.