8 Reasons Why Baking Soda Should Not Be Used Excessively

Using baking soda excessively can have several negative effects on your health and surroundings.

Here are eight reasons why it should not be used excessively, to avoid these issues, it's best to use baking soda sparingly and in accordance with recommended guidelines for specific applications.

1. Skin Irritation

Baking soda is alkaline and can disrupt the natural pH balance of the skin, leading to irritation, dryness, and potentially causing eczema flare-ups.

2. Damage to Tooth Enamel

When used in toothpaste or as a teeth whitener, baking soda's abrasive nature can wear down tooth enamel over time, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and susceptibility to cavities.

3. Respiratory Irritation

Inhaling excessive amounts of baking soda dust, especially during cleaning activities, can irritate the respiratory tract and exacerbate conditions like asthma.

4. Digestive Issues

Ingesting large amounts of baking soda can disrupt the acid-base balance in the stomach, potentially leading to gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, gas, and nausea.

5. Adverse Reactions with Medications

Baking soda can interact with certain medications, such as antacids and medications for hypertension, altering their effectiveness or causing harmful side effects.

6. Environmental Impact

Excessive use of baking soda in cleaning products can contribute to water pollution when rinsed down drains, impacting aquatic life and ecosystems.

7. Damage to Household Surfaces

Baking soda's abrasiveness can scratch and damage delicate household surfaces like stainless steel appliances, causing them to lose their shine over time.

8. Limited Effectiveness in Certain Uses

Despite its versatility, baking soda may not be the most effective solution for certain cleaning tasks or health remedies, leading to unnecessary use and potential ineffectiveness.

To avoid these issues, it's best to use baking soda sparingly and in accordance with recommended guidelines for specific applications.