does baking soda remove stains - #14050
I am really confused about a couple of stains on my kitchen counters. Like, a week ago, I spilled some red wine and no matter how hard I tried to clean it, there’s still this purple mark lingering. Ugh! I’ve tried plain soap and water, those fancy chemical cleaners, everything. I heard somewhere that baking soda can help, but does baking soda remove stains or is that just a myth? I mean, I was skeptical at first, but my friend swears by it for her white tablecloths after she spilled spaghetti sauce all over it. Honestly, I’ve also noticed some coffee stains on my mugs that I can’t get rid of. It’s like they have a mind of their own. I even tried scrubbing it with a sponge but it just won’t budge. If does baking soda remove stains, what’s the best way to use it? Should I mix it with water, or just apply it directly? Also, does baking soda remove stains from other surfaces too, like carpets or other fabrics? Feeling a bit lost here and I really want my counters and dishes to look decent again!
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Doctors’ responses
Baking soda can indeed help with removing stains, you’re on the right track. It’s mildly abrasive and alkaline, which can be pretty effective for certain types of stains, particularly those caused by acidic substances like wine or coffee. For your kitchen counter, you can make a simple paste using baking soda and a little water. Just place a few tablespoons of baking soda in a small bowl and gradually add water until you have a thick paste. Apply this paste to the stain on your counter, gently rub it using a soft cloth or sponge in circular motions, and let it sit for about 15-30 minutes. Then, wipe it away with clean water to see if that helps lift the stain.
For the coffee stains on your mugs, you can use a similar method. Dampen the inside of the mug slightly, apply some baking soda directly to the stains, and scrub gently. The abrasiveness of the baking soda should help clear away those stubborn marks that your sponge couldn’t.
As for other surfaces, like carpets or fabrics, baking soda can also be used. For carpets, sprinkle baking soda over the stain, let it sit for at least 15 minutes—or overnight if it’s severe—then vacuum it up. Sometimes, mixing baking soda with water or even a bit of vinegar can be more effective for tougher spots on fabrics. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the material adversely. Just remember that while baking soda is versatile, it might not work for every type of stain or material, especially if they are dye-based stains that have set over time. If some stains persist, considering professional cleaning might be worthwhile.
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