This simple, cost-effective, and safe method is definitely worth trying. Carbonated soft drinks are a familiar beverage to many, especially during hot summer days, and are often readily available in households. However, once the bottle is opened and not finished, the flavor changes, and discarding it seems wasteful.
Instead of pouring it out, you can utilize leftover soda by adding a pinch of salt to address various household issues. Mix one teaspoon of salt with half a can of soda and stir well. So, what benefits does this solution offer?
1. Mosquito and Cockroach Control
Humid and rainy weather provides ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes and cockroaches. The use of mosquito coils or insect sprays not only leaves an unpleasant odor but also contains harmful chemicals. In this case, a solution of salt and soda can be a handy remedy.
Cut an empty plastic bottle into two parts. Pour the prepared salt and soda solution into the lower part of the bottle, then invert the upper part to create a trap. The sweetness of the soda will attract mosquitoes and cockroaches, but once they enter, they won’t be able to escape due to the stickiness of the solution. This method is simple, safe, and can help you significantly save on mosquito repellents annually, making it worth considering.
2. Cleaning Faucets and Showerheads
To clean faucets and showerheads, pour the soda and salt solution into a small spray bottle. If you don’t have a spray bottle, you can directly apply the solution onto the faucets and showerhead. Then, cover the surface with toilet paper and spray a little more of the solution on top. After letting it sit for about 5 minutes, gently wipe it off with a cloth, and the dirt and water stains will disappear, leaving a shiny, new look.
3. Fabric Softener
In addition to removing stains and yellowing, the soda and salt solution can also soften stiff, old clothes. However, for this method, it is recommended to use clear soda instead of colored ones.
Soak the clothes in this solution for about an hour, then discard the dirty water and rinse the clothes with clean water to finish.
4. Removing Grease
In the kitchen, range hoods and pot lids often accumulate greasy smoke, resulting in a thick layer of grime that is challenging to clean. The soda and salt solution can be a game-changer here.
Simply spray the solution onto the pot lids, stove, and range hood, and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Then, use a cloth to wipe it clean. Even stubborn grease stains can be eliminated with a few wipes, saving you time and effort.
5. Cleaning Wooden Furniture
Wooden furniture tends to fade and accumulate stubborn stains over time. To remove these stains, dip a thin cloth into the soda and salt solution and wipe down the dirty surface.
After cleaning, let the surface sit for about 10 minutes, and then wipe it again with clean water.
6. Toilet Cleaning
You can also use the soda and salt solution to clean your toilet. Pour the solution into the toilet bowl and let it sit for about an hour, or even overnight if the stains are old and stubborn.
Then, use the toilet spray to rinse the bowl and scrub it with a brush as usual. The stains and unpleasant odors will be gone in no time.