Of all the unanswered questions in the world, it seems that one of the biggest mysteries has always remained, is bicarbonate of soda the same as baking soda? They sound the same, but are they made from the same elements? And what can you use them for?
Here we’ll unravel the mystery and explain everything you need to know! Including what practical uses they may have other than baking.
Bicarbonate of soda vs baking soda
What’s the difference?
There are some very contentious opinions about these two ingredients but in fact, bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are the same thing! The difference is purely in the name. The former is the term used throughout the UK and the latter is used in the US.
What is bicarbonate of soda?
Sodium Bicarbonate, to use its scientific term, is a fine white powder used as a leavening agent, primarily in baking. You’ll often see bicarbonate of soda or baking soda listed in recipes alongside acidic ingredients such as lemon juice, as it becomes activated when combined with an acid. Once active, it releases gases which cause foods like bread, doughs or batters to rise and expand.
Is bicarbonate of soda the same as baking powder?
Baking powder, on the other hand, is not the same as bicarbonate of soda. It is made from sodium bicarbonate, but also contains the acid that is used to activate it. To stop the chemical reaction taking place in storage, cornstarch is often added.
Baking powder, as is mentioned in its name, is also mainly used when baking. The difference is that baking powder features in recipes that don’t contain other acidic ingredients. This is because the acid needed is already contained within the powder.
What is bicarbonate of soda used for?
Now that we’ve established if bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are the same, let’s look at their uses. You may be surprised to know that it’s not just used to make cakes and bread, but there are many practical ‘life hacks’ that contain baking soda. There are so many uses, it’d be almost silly not to keep a jar in the cupboard!
Baking
Its most common use is, of course, in baking recipes as an alkaline raising agent. Any budding bakers will know that it must be used exactly as the recipe states. If used too much, it can leave a very unpleasant, bitter taste. If you don’t add enough then your dough won’t rise! Always read your recipe carefully if you don’t want to be left with a soggy, flat cake!
Household cleaning
It also has many uses around the house as a natural cleaning agent. We have listed some of its most useful purposes below:
- Removes carpet stains – When mixed with vinegar baking soda creates an extremely effective stain remover. Simply cover the affected area with a layer of baking soda and spray with a water and vinegar mixture. Leave for up to 1 hour, remove the excess baking soda from the carpet and the stain will have magically disappeared!
- Kitchen appliance cleaner – Ovens, stoves, countertops, microwaves, stained crockery. It can pretty much clean anything throughout the kitchen! As we mentioned before, bicarb of soda is activated when combined with an acid. Therefore, to create an effective kitchen cleaner, simply mix bicarb of soda with lemon juice and water. Apply the paste to the stained areas and give them a good old scrub!
- Bathroom cleaning – Much like the kitchen, baking soda can be equally as effective in the bathroom. Create the same paste as before and apply it to any stained showers, baths, tiles, toilets or sinks. Its whitening benefits will also leave your bathroom looking brand new and shiny!
- Shoe freshener – There’s nothing worse than having a house full of smelly shoes! Luckily, baking soda can also help eliminate foul odours and keep your shoe rack smelling fresh. Pour 2-3 spoons of baking soda into a cloth or serviette and place into each shoe. Take it out when you need to wear them and replace it when you don’t!
- Killing weeds – If your driveway or garden has become overgrown with weeds then baking soda may be your ultimate solution! Due to its high sodium content, it effectively stops weeds in their tracks. Just pour a little in between the cracks in concrete or wherever the weeds are concentrated. Be careful not to use it in the home plant pots or flower beds, however, as it may affect the plants you want to keep!
Teeth whitening
Most surprisingly, due to its natural cleaning elements, it can be used as a teeth whitener. Many kinds of toothpaste contain certain amounts of baking soda to effectively break down plaque and remove unwanted stains. As well as whitening, it can promote good dental hygiene overall, as it helps to fight off harmful bacteria on teeth and in the mouth.
Whatever you decide to call it, bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are the same, and they always will be! Whether cooking, cleaning or even brushing your teeth, its versatility, and cheap price tag have made it a staple in kitchen cupboards all across the country!
