10 Ingenious Unexpected Uses for Baking Soda
By Jade Copple
Put Out a Fire
Water or a fire extinguisher should be your first go-to in case of fire, but if you're in a bind reach for a box of baking soda.
Try it (if you have to): If you don't have a fire extinguisher and can't get access to water (or if you have a small grease fire, which you should never throw water on) dump as much baking soda as you can on the flames.
Why it works: "When baking soda is heated, it decomposes and releases carbon dioxide gas. That is the same gas in CO2 fire extinguishers," says Vinokur.
Keep in mind: "While throwing baking soda on a fire can put it out, you will need a whole box to put out a tiny stovetop fire," Vinokur says. "This should really be your last-ditch effort, not your first."
Try it (if you have to): If you don't have a fire extinguisher and can't get access to water (or if you have a small grease fire, which you should never throw water on) dump as much baking soda as you can on the flames.
Why it works: "When baking soda is heated, it decomposes and releases carbon dioxide gas. That is the same gas in CO2 fire extinguishers," says Vinokur.
Keep in mind: "While throwing baking soda on a fire can put it out, you will need a whole box to put out a tiny stovetop fire," Vinokur says. "This should really be your last-ditch effort, not your first."
Published 12/15/2014