Baking soda is often hailed as a miracle cleaner due to its versatility, affordability, and natural properties. From scrubbing stubborn stains to deodorizing, it’s a go-to solution for many household chores. However, despite its many benefits, baking soda isn’t suitable for everything. In fact, using it on certain materials can cause more harm than good. Here’s a detailed look at what you should never clean with baking soda and why.
1. Aluminum Cookware
- Why It’s Harmful: Baking soda can cause aluminum to oxidize, leading to discoloration and a dull finish. Over time, it can weaken the metal, causing pits or even holes in your cookware.
- What to Use Instead: For aluminum, mild dish soap and water or a specialized aluminum cleaner are safer alternatives. If you need to remove stains, use a paste made from cream of tartar and water.
2. Antique Silverware
- Why It’s Harmful: While baking soda is often recommended for cleaning silver, it can be too abrasive for antique or delicate pieces. The abrasive texture can scratch and wear down the fine details, diminishing the value of your silverware.
- What to Use Instead: Use a silver polish specifically designed for antique items or a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner.
3. Marble and Granite Countertops
- Why It’s Harmful: Baking soda is mildly abrasive, and regular use on marble or granite can wear down the protective sealant. This makes the surface more susceptible to stains, scratches, and damage from acidic substances.
- What to Use Instead: Use a cleaner specifically formulated for stone surfaces. A mixture of mild dish soap and warm water can also be used for everyday cleaning.
4. Ceramic Cooktop
- Why It’s Harmful: The abrasive nature of baking soda can scratch the smooth surface of a ceramic cooktop. Over time, these scratches can become more pronounced, affecting the cooktop’s performance and appearance.
- What to Use Instead: Opt for a ceramic cooktop cleaner that’s designed to remove stains without scratching the surface.
5. Wood Furniture
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