Baking soda and cola are two common household items that you might not think to use together, but when combined, they create a powerful solution to tackle various household problems. Whether it’s cleaning tough stains, unclogging drains, or refreshing surfaces, this dynamic duo can be surprisingly effective. Here’s how mixing baking soda and cola can become your go-to remedy for many household issues.
1. Unclogging Drains
One of the most popular uses for the combination of baking soda and cola is unclogging drains. Cola contains phosphoric acid, which can help break down tough clogs, while baking soda’s natural abrasiveness aids in dislodging debris.
How to Use:
- Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the clogged drain.
- Follow with a bottle of cola, pouring it slowly down the drain.
- Let the mixture sit for an hour or overnight for tougher clogs.
- Flush the drain with hot water to clear any remaining residue.
This method is a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to harsh chemical drain cleaners.
2. Cleaning Toilets
Toilets can accumulate stubborn stains and mineral deposits that are tough to remove. The acidity in cola combined with the scrubbing power of baking soda can help dissolve these stains, leaving your toilet sparkling clean.
How to Use:
- Pour a can of cola around the rim of the toilet, making sure it covers the stains.
- Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the cola to break down the stains.
- Sprinkle baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Scrub with a toilet brush and then flush.
This combination can effectively remove rings and other hard water stains without the need for harsh chemicals.
3. Removing Rust
Rust can be a persistent problem on metal surfaces, but the combination of cola and baking soda can help. The acid in the cola reacts with the rust, while baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive to scrub it away.
How to Use:
- Soak the rusty object in cola for a few hours or overnight.
- Remove the object and sprinkle baking soda on the rusted areas.
- Scrub the rust with a brush or sponge.
- Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
This method works well for small tools, bolts, or other metal items that have accumulated rust.
4. Cleaning Stubborn Cookware
Baking soda and cola are also great for cleaning stubborn, burnt-on food from cookware. The cola’s acidity helps to loosen the grime, while baking soda scrubs it away.
How to Use:
- Pour cola into the cookware, enough to cover the burnt areas.
- Let it sit for a few hours or bring the cola to a boil if you want faster results.
- Once the cola has worked its magic, pour it out and sprinkle baking soda onto the burnt areas.
- Scrub with a sponge or brush until the cookware is clean.
- Rinse and dry the cookware thoroughly.
This method is particularly useful for stainless steel pots and pans.
5. Cleaning Grout
Grout can become discolored over time due to dirt, mildew, and soap scum. Baking soda’s abrasiveness combined with cola’s acidity can help restore grout to its original color.
How to Use:
- Pour a small amount of cola onto the grout lines.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the grime.
- Sprinkle baking soda onto the grout and scrub with a stiff brush.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth and rinse with water.
This method can help brighten and clean grout without damaging the tiles.
