Why is baking soda the universal cleaning powder?

Question

Basically the title. Why do we use baking soda for so many cleaning tasks? What about it makes it the best for cleaning?

In: 18

Answer 1

Multiple reasons:

– Extremely cheap. We are talking about less than a $ per kilogram here.
– Relatively neutral pH, so not attacking permanent things.
– Can still act basic and somewhat acidic to attack simple residues.
– Produces CO2 gas with acids (vinegar/acetic acid in particular, another common cleaning agent), thus creating foam, stimulation and other effects that help with cleaning.
– Acts as an abrasive powder.

However, I tend to use it only rarely for cleaning, more often for neutralizing stuff. Modern household cleaners from supermarkets are cheap enough and often easier to use.

Edit: forgot the abrasive properties.