Because it is a softer crystal (Mohs hardness 2.5), baking soda cleans without scratching. Make a paste with water to clean silverware, coffee mugs, ceramic hobs, and baby toys.
The primary difference lies in their , measured by pH. Each whole point on the pH scale is 10 times more powerful than the next, making soda crystals significantly more caustic than baking soda. Soda Crystals (Washing Soda) Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda) Chemical Name Sodium Carbonate ( Sodium Bicarbonate ( NaHCO3cap N a cap H cap C cap O sub 3 pH Level ~11.0 (Strongly Alkaline) ~8.1–8.3 (Mildly Alkaline) Edibility Never ingest ; can be toxic Edible; used in food and medicine Safety Requires gloves; can irritate skin Generally safe; non-irritating When to Use Soda Crystals soda crystals baking soda
Pouring soda crystals down a sink followed by boiling water can dissolve grease and soap scum, keeping pipes clear and fresh. Comparison at a Glance Baking Soda Soda Crystals Chemical Name Sodium Bicarbonate Sodium Carbonate pH Level ~8.5 (Mild) ~11 (Strong) Best For Odors & Polishing Grease & Limescale Safety Food-grade safe Irritant (wear gloves) Texture Fine powder Gritty crystals Safety and Surface Care Because it is a softer crystal (Mohs hardness 2
| Feature | Baking Soda | Soda Crystals | |---------|-------------|----------------| | | Sodium bicarbonate | Sodium carbonate | | pH (1% solution) | ~8.3 | ~11 | | Alkalinity | Mild | Strong | | Edible? | Yes, in food | No – toxic if ingested | | Common use | Baking, deodorizing | Cleaning, laundry booster | Each whole point on the pH scale is
If you have ever stood in the cleaning aisle of a supermarket, utterly confused by the row of white boxes and cardboard tubs, you are not alone. Two of the most common—yet most misunderstood—products are (Sodium Carbonate Decahydrate, often sold as "washing soda") and Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate).