Household Alert: Nine Items Should Never Be Cleaned With Baking Soda

Baking soda has long been hailed as a budget-friendly cleaning solution for Indian households, but experts caution that applying it universally can be counterproductive and potentially damaging. The compound's coarse texture combined with its chemical composition creates risks that homeowners should be aware of before reaching for this common pantry staple.

Aluminium cookware and utensils top the list of items vulnerable to baking soda damage. The abrasive nature of the powder can scratch and discolour aluminium surfaces, while chemical reactions may cause permanent staining or deterioration. Similarly, copper and silver items, including decorative pieces and tableware, are at risk of discolouration and surface damage when exposed to baking soda cleaning methods.

Delicate household surfaces require particular caution. Marble slabs and countertops, popular in Indian homes, can be etched or dulled by baking soda's mild acidity and abrasiveness. Glass surfaces may also suffer scratching, while leather furniture and wooden pieces face the risk of permanent damage from both the abrasive texture and potential chemical reactions that can strip finishes and stain materials.

Experts recommend using alternative, gentler cleaning methods for these vulnerable items. For aluminium, copper, and silver, mild soap solutions or specialist cleaners are preferable. Marble and glass benefit from pH-neutral cleaners designed specifically for these materials. Leather and wood furniture should be cleaned with products formulated for their specific composition to preserve appearance and longevity.