Sprinkling baking soda around the toilet: Why it is recommended
By Trizer Lijondo, August 19, 2026Keeping the bathroom fresh does not always require expensive cleaning products. One simple household trick that continues to attract attention is sprinkling baking soda around the toilet. The inexpensive kitchen staple is often recommended for dealing with odours, light dirt and moisture around one of the most frequently used areas in the home.
Neutralizing Unpleasant Odors
Bathrooms can develop lingering smells from urine residue, dampness and limited ventilation. Baking soda is commonly used as an odour neutraliser because it can help absorb and reduce certain unpleasant smells. Sprinkling a small amount around the toilet base can therefore be a simple addition to a bathroom-cleaning routine.
Baking soda can also work as a mild abrasive. When mixed with a little water, it forms a paste that can help loosen grime and residue from suitable bathroom surfaces. This makes it useful for cleaning areas around the toilet where dirt can accumulate over time.
However, it should not replace proper disinfecting. The toilet and surrounding surfaces still require regular cleaning with appropriate bathroom products to remove germs and buildup effectively.
An affordable household trick
Another reason the trick is recommended is baking soda’s ability to absorb small amounts of moisture. A thin layer around the toilet area may help with minor dampness, particularly in bathrooms that remain humid.
It is important, however, not to mistake this for a solution to a plumbing problem. If water keeps collecting around the toilet base, there could be a leak or damaged seal that needs attention.
Part of baking soda’s appeal is its affordability and availability. Many households already have it in the kitchen, meaning it can be used without buying another specialised bathroom product.
For people trying to simplify their cleaning routines or reduce spending on household supplies, small uses like this can make baking soda a useful addition to their cleaning cupboard.
Use it the right way
To try the method, sprinkle a small amount around the toilet base and leave it briefly before sweeping or wiping the area clean. For stubborn residue, a baking soda paste can be gently scrubbed onto appropriate surfaces.
Avoid mixing baking soda with unknown cleaning chemicals, especially products containing bleach or other strong ingredients. The best results come from using it as an extra cleaning aid rather than treating it as a replacement for proper bathroom hygiene.
Ultimately, sprinkling baking soda around the toilet is a simple household habit that may help control odours and light grime. Combined with regular cleaning and good bathroom ventilation, it can contribute to a fresher bathroom without adding much to household expenses.