Life Hack: What are soda crystals and what can they be used to clean?
What are soda crystals? Picture: iStock
Soda crystals are an inexpensive and natural cleaning solution that you can find in many shops, supermarkets and hardware stores. Along with other items like white vinegar, soda crystals have been a staple cleaning agent in homes for decades, though with more choice than ever in the cleaning aisle you may have overlooked them, They are eco-friendly and can tackle some of the toughest tasks around the home, from cleaning to laundry and more.
If you notice a pong coming from your washing machine, it might be time for the machine itself to be washed. Although it cycles through detergent regularly, this is not enough to keep the machine clean and soda crystals are an easy way to deep clean your appliance. To tackle lingering bacteria, run a hot wash in an empty machine once a month with between 500g and 750g of soda crystals in the detergent dispenser.
Soda crystals cut through grease easily so if you think your sink’s pipes are clogged in the kitchen or bathroom they can be the solution. Pour a mug of crystals down the drain and follow it with hot water to clear the blockage.
Similarly, soda crystals can be used to clean grease from surfaces, like pans and hobs. You can soak greasy pans in a solution of soda crystals and hot water. Let them soak for a long time if the grease is built up. This works to shift burnt-on food too. You can also sprinkle soda crystals on a roasting tray of fat after cooking while the tray is still hot to soak up the fat. The mixture can easily be scrapped away. To wipe the grease away from kitchen surfaces, mix 200g of soda crystals 500ml of hot water and spray. Leave the mixture on the surface for a minute or two before wiping it away with a clean cloth. However, do not use soda crystals on aluminium as it will discolour it.
For the DIY enthusiast, you can use soda crystals to remove old wallpaper easily. Like the above method, mix soda crystals with water and use it as you would sugar soap to help remove leftover wallpaper paste and clean and prepare the wall for its next wallpapering.
Probably the best-known use of soda crystals, they can make washing clothes much easier. Soda crystals can help to remove stains and they soften hard water, which can be a problem in many parts of Ireland. Add a tablespoon of soda crystals to your detergent and wash as normal to see the difference.
