Baking soda is probably one of the most common things sitting in your kitchen. Most homes have it within easy reach, and it is usually kept around for making cakes, biscuits and other baked goods. Plenty of people also reach for it to clean the house, lift stubborn stains and chase away bad smells. Lately, though, a completely different use for it has been doing the rounds on social media.
The claim is simple, place a little baking soda under your bed and the air in the room starts to feel fresher, which in turn may help you sleep better at night. The reasoning behind it is straightforward. Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, has the ability to absorb odours. That same quality is why it is used to cut down smells in fridges, shoes and rooms. It does not spread any fragrance of its own, instead it soaks up the unpleasant smells nearby and leaves the surroundings feeling fresher.
What Keeping It Under the Bed Could Do
Some people believe that when a bedroom feels stuffy because of dust, dampness or trapped air, a bowl of baking soda under the bed can help keep the room feeling fresh. Those who deal with a slightly blocked nose or mild trouble breathing at night may also feel a little relief from it.
The Easy Way to Use It
Trying it out is very simple. Start with a clean, dry bowl made of glass, ceramic or sturdy plastic. Fill it with about half a cup of baking soda. Now gently spread the powder so its surface is level.
Next, slide the bowl under the bed in a spot where it will not easily tip over. Many people prefer to place it under the middle section of the bed. There is no firm scientific basis for this, yet it is believed that keeping it there lets it work on the surrounding air more effectively.
Things to Keep in Mind
One important point is that the baking soda should be replaced every 3 to 4 weeks. And if you have allergies, asthma or any serious breathing-related problem, it is best to check with a doctor rather than relying on this home remedy alone.
