Some of the best discoveries are the ones that save you money while making your life simpler. You probably already have both ingredients in your kitchen. Alone, they are useful. Together, they become something surprisingly versatile and effective.
This is the magic of baking soda and cloves.
A simple mixture that can replace expensive products in your bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. Natural, gentle, and incredibly affordable.
Why this combination works so well
Each ingredient brings its own unique strengths.
- Baking soda is a gentle powerhouse. It neutralizes odors, gently cleans and polishes, and softens water. It is safe, non-toxic, and costs pennies per use.
- Cloves are more than just a spice. They have a warm, pleasant aroma that lingers naturally. Cloves also contain eugenol, a compound with gentle antimicrobial properties that help keep surfaces fresh and clean.
Together, they create a natural, effective alternative to chemical-laden commercial products.
Five ways to use baking soda and cloves (and save money)
1. Natural tooth powder (replaces toothpaste)
- Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 teaspoon of ground cloves.
- Store in a small jar.
- Dip a damp toothbrush into the powder and brush as usual.
- Baking soda gently cleans and whitens. Cloves freshen breath and soothe gums.
2. Carpet and upholstery deodorizer (replaces commercial powders)
- Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 10 drops of clove essential oil (or 1 tablespoon of ground cloves).
- Sprinkle generously over carpets or upholstery.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes (or overnight for stronger odors).
- Vacuum thoroughly. Your room will smell warm and fresh.
3. Shoe deodorizer (replaces sprays and inserts)
- Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1 teaspoon of ground cloves.
- Place the mixture in a small cloth pouch or an old sock tied at the end.
- Insert into shoes overnight.
- The mixture absorbs moisture and odors, leaving shoes fresh.
4. Gentle kitchen scrub (replaces harsh cleaners)
- Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves.
- Add just enough water to form a thick paste.
- Use a sponge to scrub sinks, countertops, and stovetops.
- Rinse thoroughly. The cloves add a pleasant scent and gentle antimicrobial action.
5. Drawer and closet sachet (replaces expensive sachets)
- Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of whole cloves.
- Place the mixture in a small cloth bag or a jar with holes punched in the lid.
- Tuck it into drawers, closets, or linen cabinets.
- It absorbs musty odors and releases a gentle, spicy fragrance.
How to make the basic mixture
You will need:
- 1 cup of baking soda
- 2 tablespoons of ground cloves (or 15 drops of clove essential oil)
- A clean jar with a lid
Instructions:
- Combine the baking soda and ground cloves in the jar.
- Shake well to mix thoroughly.
- If using essential oil, add the drops and shake again.
- Store in a cool, dry place. Use as needed for any of the purposes above.
What you can expect
- A significant reduction in household expenses as you replace multiple commercial products with one simple mixture.
- A clean, fresh, natural scent in your home—without artificial fragrances.
- Gentle, effective cleaning and deodorizing without harsh chemicals.
- The satisfaction of knowing exactly what is in the products you use.
A gentle word of caution
Both ingredients are safe and natural, but a few notes are worth keeping in mind.
- Baking soda is mildly abrasive. For very delicate surfaces (like gold jewelry or polished marble), test a small area first or use a gentler method.
- Cloves are strong. If you have sensitive skin, test the mixture on a small patch before using it as a scrub or deodorizer.
- The tooth powder is safe for occasional use, but do not use it more than once a day. Baking soda can be abrasive with overuse. If you have sensitive teeth or gum issues, consult your dentist.
- Keep the mixture away from pets. Cloves can be toxic to dogs and cats in large amounts.
- If you have a known allergy to cloves or baking soda, obviously avoid this mixture.
Why this simple mixture will save you money
Commercial cleaning and personal care products are expensive. Many of them contain ingredients you do not need and cannot pronounce.
Baking soda and cloves cost almost nothing. They are safe, natural, and incredibly versatile. A single jar of this mixture can replace toothpaste, carpet deodorizer, shoe freshener, kitchen scrub, and drawer sachet.
The next time you reach for an expensive bottle at the store, remember this humble combination. Mix it yourself. Save your money. Enjoy the natural freshness.
Your wallet—and your home—will thank you.
For more surprising everyday ideas, take a look at mixing Vaseline with lemon and applying Vaseline to a carrot. You can also explore this lemon, honey, garlic, onion, and ginger recipe.
