Baking soda is a healthy toxic free cleaning product

 Baking soda is also known as sodium bicarbonate, bicarbonate of soda; in its natural form is called Nahcolite (saleratus). A chemical salt that is alkaline, grit to touch and usually white like snow. It neutralizes acids and breaks down protein. Have you ever thought about cleaning some dull looking clothings or really wanted a brighter touch for your favorite bright color cloths without using harmful bleaches; here is what you can do to whiten or brighten clothings.
First, you will need some detergents that is free of highly toxic ingredients such as phosphate, chlorine, petroleum, sodium lauryl sulfate (harsh/drying), Water, Baking soda, and of course a laundry machine or some hands to do the washing.
Start first by pre-soaking clothings in warm water depending on fabric instructions, then add detergent and baking soda. I use either Roma biodegradable, Vermont tea tree soap or Enviro-one laundry detergent and hammer baking soda to do almost all cleaning. Check instruction on how to use any one of these detergent before use.

 Baking soda is excellent for brightening and cleaning. Baking Soda stabilizes PH level and enhances the brightening effect of detergents. You can hang small load cloths on a rail like you see in the picture to conserve energy however, if you are allergic to pollen i recommend you use the drying machine to dry clothings.

Other uses of Baking Soda:

• If you have pets such as dogs, cats, gerbils like myself---you will find baking soda useful, it helps deodorize the litter box, the home and cleans and alkalizes pet dishes and you have squirt clean pet home without the fear of harming your pets. but for health safety, do not let your pet swallow the baking soda because exposure to too much salt can be harmful to pets. 
• You can use baking soda paste to ex-foliate skin, lip and feet however, go gentle because baking soda can tear and irritate sensitive skin especially the facial skin.
• Can be used to brighten teeth and freshen mouth odor, but be gentle or use tooth paste contain baking soda.
• Can be used as a tenderizer or deodorizer
• Can be used in first aid treatment to sooth away pain, sting/itch, clean by soaking the injured area in a warm water with baking soda.
• Drinking baking soda may relieve heartburn and neutralize stomach acid because it acts an antacid.
• Can be used for baking to create a rise effect.
• You can use baking soda as a pest repellent because it is irritating to the chitin (exoskeleton) of insects; sprinkle it around your outdoor corner's to repel (keep out) ants and other insect.
• Baking soda is used  to keep water clear and balance the PH level in swimming pool.
• When baking soda is heated it gives off carbon dioxide making it an ideal for extinguishing small grease or electrical fire.
• To use baking soda in mopping floors/tiles without using soap or detergent, mix vinegar, baking soda in water- that is it.

How to store baking soda.

• Store in a tight container in a dry place unless you are using it for odor control. 
• Avoid dipping wet utensils inside stored baking soda to help keep its freshness. 
• Baking soda can last up to 12 to 18 months till expiration.  
• To check if baking soda is still fresh by mixing 1 teaspoon baking powder with 1/3 cup hot water if it forms rising foams well then it is still fresh and still good for use.

Note: Do not consume baking soda if you have a medical condition that restricts salt usage.

Author:
 Onyinye A is a freelance writer who specializes in nontoxic self improvement, green-friendly living, whole health remedies, holistic pet care, nontoxic lifestyle (preventing cancer, illness and toxicity) and everything related to detox, Natural health and organic living. 
                                                       "Nontoxic Lifestyle"