Baking Soda: The Ultimate Odor Absorber for a Fresh Home
Baking soda is a powerhouse in the world of natural cleaning. This simple ingredient not only freshens your home but also neutralises unwanted smells effectively.
Many households rely on baking soda to absorb odors, whether from carpets, fridges, or trash bins. Understanding how this remarkable product works is key to harnessing its full potential in your cleaning arsenal.
How Baking Soda Works to Absorb Odors
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is renowned for its ability to tackle odours. The secret lies in its chemical composition. Baking soda is alkaline, which means it can neutralise acidic compounds that often cause bad smells.
According to Audrey Pariés of Aspen Clean, “Many unwanted smells are the result of acidic compounds.” When baking soda comes into contact with these acids, a chemical reaction occurs. This reaction neutralises the odour, resulting in a more pleasant environment.
The effectiveness of baking soda in odour absorption can be attributed to its ability to interact with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in various household items.
By binding to these molecules, baking soda effectively reduces their scent, making it a powerful ally in maintaining a fresh-smelling home.

How Long Does It Take for Baking Soda to Absorb Odours?
The time required for baking soda to absorb odours varies depending on the intensity of the smell. Generally, it takes at least 24 hours for baking soda to effectively neutralise typical odours.
For more stubborn smells, such as those from pets or strong food items, it may take several days.
Kathy Cohoon, director of franchise operations at Two Maids, emphasises the importance of patience: “For stubborn smells, it can take several days to soak up the odour.”
Therefore, if you’re using baking soda for odour elimination, it’s crucial to give it ample time to work its magic.
How to Effectively Use Baking Soda to Absorb Odours
Using baking soda to absorb odours is simple, but the method can differ based on the type of odour you are dealing with. Here are some effective strategies:
1. For Carpet and Upholstery Odours
If you’re dealing with smells embedded in carpets, rugs, or upholstery, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area.
Let it sit for up to an hour to allow the baking soda to absorb the odour. After that, simply vacuum it up. This technique is particularly effective for pet odours and spills.
2. For Enclosed Spaces
In smaller, enclosed spaces like closets, cars, or refrigerators, keep baking soda in a vented jar. This allows the baking soda to absorb odours continuously. Remember to refresh the baking soda every month for optimal effectiveness.
3. For Food-Related Odours
When using baking soda to absorb odours in the refrigerator, it’s essential to avoid using the same box for cooking.
As Trisha Lake, owner and CEO of TLC Cleaning, points out, “If we were to take that same box and use it in our food, we would run the risk of having our foods’ tastes altered.” Always have a separate box dedicated to odour absorption.
4. Combining with Other Cleaners
For particularly stubborn smells, consider combining baking soda with an enzyme cleaner. Cohoon suggests, “You can leave baking soda to absorb the smell and then bring in an enzyme cleaner to fully break it up.” This dual approach can effectively eliminate even the most persistent odours.

Types of Odours Baking Soda Neutralises
Baking soda is exceptionally versatile. While it excels at tackling acidic odours, it can neutralise various other scents. Here are some common types of odours that baking soda effectively combats:
- Pet Odours: Baking soda absorbs the organic compounds in pet urine, leaving behind a fresh scent.
- Food Smells: Whether it’s lingering fish or burnt toast, baking soda can help eliminate strong food-related odours.
- Musty Smells: In damp environments, baking soda can absorb the musty scents that often accompany humidity.
- Smoke Odours: If your home has experienced smoke exposure, baking soda can help to freshen the air.
Due to its alkaline properties, there are very few odours that baking soda cannot combat. This makes it an invaluable tool in any cleaning routine.
Is Baking Soda the Best Natural Odour Eliminator?
When it comes to natural odour eliminators, baking soda is often regarded as the gold standard. Its effectiveness, safety, and ease of use make it a preferred choice. Cohoon notes, “It is a great cleaning aid especially when you want to avoid fragrances or added chemicals.”
Additionally, baking soda’s versatility allows users to customise it further. By adding a few drops of your favourite essential oil, you can enhance the scent without compromising its odour-neutralising capabilities.
This makes baking soda not only a functional cleaner but also a great option for those looking to maintain a pleasant atmosphere in their homes.

Conclusion
Baking soda remains a tried-and-true solution for eliminating unwanted odours in various settings. Its alkaline nature enables it to neutralise acidic smells, making it a versatile and effective cleaning agent.
Whether dealing with pet odours, food-related scents, or musty environments, baking soda’s odour absorption properties are unparalleled.
For best results, utilise baking soda appropriately and give it time to work. Combining it with other cleaning methods can further enhance its effectiveness. In the quest for a fresh-smelling home, baking soda proves to be an essential ingredient.
FAQs
What is the best way to use baking soda for pet odours?
Sprinkle baking soda on carpets or upholstery and let it sit for an hour before vacuuming.
How often should I refresh baking soda in my refrigerator?
It’s recommended to refresh the baking soda every month for optimal odour absorption.
Can baking soda eliminate smoke odours?
Yes, baking soda can absorb and neutralise smoke odours effectively.
Is baking soda safe to use around children and pets?
Yes, baking soda is a natural product and is safe for use in homes with children and pets.
How can I enhance the scent of baking soda?
Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to the baking soda for a pleasant fragrance.
References