As someone who splits her time between cruising many feet in the air and cleaning up DIY spills at home (don’t ask), I’m all about finding simple solutions that actually work—whether I’m living out of a suitcase or juggling a dozen things around the house. If it can’t multitask like I do, I’m not interested. Here’s how I make everyday life a little easier, no matter where I am. As someone who lives part-time dragging bags and part-time doing random things around the house, I need simple solutions that work everywhere. Here's how baking soda fits right into my routine—on the ground and in the air.
Freshen Up Travel Essentials
Because no one wants their suitcase to smell like last weeks layover (with the damp bathing suit we forget to airdry):
Deodorize Suitcases: Sprinkle a bit inside after a trip and let it sit. Vacuum or shake it out before repacking.
Clean Reusable Water Bottles: A little baking soda and warm water gets rid of that funky smell. Rinse well.
Neutralize Shoe Odors: Pour some in your travel sneakers overnight, and shake them out the next morning. Works like magic!
Bathroom Bliss (Yes, Even in Tiny Spaces)
From hotel bathrooms to home tub time, baking soda keeps things sparkling:
Shiny Sinks & Tubs: Sprinkle on a damp sponge and scrub away the stress (and soap scum).
Unclog Drains Naturally: Mix 1/2 cup baking soda + 1/2 cup vinegar. Let it fizz, rinse with very hot water.
Brighten Grout: Make a paste with water, scrub with an old toothbrush, rinse. Your tiles will thank you.
Kitchen Cleaning Hacks (For Home or Crash Pad)
Because clean kitchens = peace of mind:
Odor-Free Fridge: Keep an open box in your fridge and swap it out monthly.
Burnt Pots Be Gone: Sprinkle the bottom with baking soda, add hot water, soak, then scrub.
Cutting Board Refresher: Scrub with baking soda and a damp sponge to nix food smells and stains.
Laundry Lifesaver
Airplane clothes and mom life don’t always exist in the most sanitary conditions. Baking soda helps me freshen up fast:
Boost Your Detergent: Add 1/2 cup to laundry for brighter whites and better-smelling clothes. By the way, I make my own laundry soap powder that lasts around a 1 year, using this star ingredient.
Tackle Stains: Make a paste with water, let sit on stains for 15 minutes, then wash as usual.
Deodorize Workout or Uniform Gear: Pre-soak in baking soda + water before washing. Goodbye, airplane funk.
Deodorize Luggage Liners: Sprinkle baking soda inside your carry-on's fabric lining, let it sit overnight, then shake or vacuum it out.
Soften Towels Naturally: Add 1/2 cup baking soda to your wash cycle to revive stiff towels and make them extra fluffy.
Combat Mildew Smells: Got a damp towel left in your bag a little too long? Soak it in warm water with baking soda before washing to neutralize musty smells.
General Home Hacks
Because I like my space—no matter how small or temporary—to feel like a fresh start:
Carpet Refresher: Sprinkle, let sit 20 minutes, vacuum. Feels like a reset.
Polish Silver or Jewelry: Make a paste with water, gently rub, rinse, and shine.
Trash Can Deodorizer: A spoonful at the bottom of the bin makes a huge difference.
Clean Hair Brushes & Combs: Soak them in warm water with 1 tablespoon of baking soda to remove oil and buildup.
Freshen Mattress & Upholstery: Lightly sprinkle baking soda over your mattress or couch, let it sit for 30 minutes, and vacuum it up to absorb odors.
Clean Coffee & Tea Stains from Mugs: Make a paste with a little baking soda and water, scrub gently, and those stubborn stains will disappear.
DIY Air Freshener: Fill a small jar with baking soda and a few drops of essential oil. Poke holes in the lid or cover with breathable fabric—it’s perfect for closets or bathrooms.
Shine Stainless Steel: Make a paste with baking soda and water, rub it gently onto stainless steel surfaces, then rinse and buff with a dry cloth for a fingerprint-free shine
Self-Care with Baking Soda: Because You Deserve It
Sadly, between flights, family, and the constant hustle, we don’t always get time for full-blown self-care routines. But guess what? Baking soda steps in again to help us look and feel refreshed, without needing a fancy spa appointment.
DIY Detox Bath Soak: After a long trip, I mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of Epsom salt and a few drops of lavender essential oil. Soak for 20 minutes to ease muscle tension and detox from airport air. I keep a jar of baking soda handy to exfoliate my skin while in the shower.
Gentle Face Exfoliator: Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a splash of water to create a soft paste. Gently rub it onto your skin in circular motions, rinse off, and moisturize. Instant glow-up!
Soothing Foot Soak: After a long day in heels or crew shoes, I fill a basin with warm water, add 2 tablespoons of baking soda, and let my feet relax. Add peppermint oil if you’re feeling fancy.
Deodorizing Hair Rinse: To clarify my scalp, periodically between washes (post protective styling), I mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon shampoo with slip with warm water and use it as a pre-shampoo treatment. It removes buildup and refreshes my hair.
Brighten Your Smile: I occasionally dip my toothbrush in baking soda (or mix with a little coconut oil) for a natural whitening boost. Just don’t overdo it—1-2x per week is plenty!
Real Talk: Why This Matters
As a flight attendant and mom, I’m all about simple routines that work. Baking soda keeps my home (and travel life) cleaner, calmer, and more manageable. It’s not just about hygiene—it’s about reclaiming time, energy, and mental space. I could go on and on about the uses but here a few that I feel many would appreciate.
You don’t need fancy tools or expensive products to feel in control—you just need a few solid, affordable tricks up your sleeve. And baking soda? She’s the MVP of the crew!!!
Your Turn—Try It and Thank Me Later
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,Got a baking soda tip I haven’t tried yet? Let me know! And if you’re ready to streamline your cleaning routine without breaking the bank, grab a few boxes on your next grocery run. You’ll be amazed at how this little white powder can elevate your space—and your sanity.
Until next time, keep it fresh and fly high.
With love,
Marlisa aka The Flight Attendant Nextdoor
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