Baking Soda Bath: Benefits, How to, and More
We all know baking soda works wonders, but this eco–friendly solution serves major perks outside the kitchen. Rather than cooking or flushing odors from sinks, stoves, and fridges, let’s dive into the benefits of a baking soda bath.
Beyond the Kitchen
Did you know that a baking soda bath nurtures real health benefits? Time to indulge in some TLC. Create spa–mazing experiences with items already at home. Your ability to unwind and relax will boost endorphins and overall mood.
What is a Baking Soda Bath?
Instead of cleaning, think self–care. Baking soda is a versatile, all-natural antiseptic made of bicarbonate and sodium ions that dissolve in water. Odorless and colorless, its alkaline nature promotes healing and detoxification when added to the tub.
Everything You Need for a Baking Soda Bath
Clear your calendar! Here’s all you need to draw a relaxing baking soda bath:
- Measuring Spoon
- Baking Soda
- Body Wash
- Washcloth
- Lavender Candle
How To Enjoy a Baking Soda Bath
- Consume plenty of water beforehand.
Keep your water bottle full throughout the day! Hydration is everything.
- Run a baking soda bath with warm to lukewarm water.
Hot temperatures dry out the skin. Pour 1-2 cups of baking soda into warm running water. Set the mood with candles, music, and books or magazines. Don’t forget to grab a spa headband!
- Soak in your baking soda bath for 10–45 minutes.
Time flies when you’re self–caring. Take deep breaths or try meditating. Prepare for warm weather ahead by exfoliating the body. Pro tip: let a clay face mask work its magic!
- Move to the shower and rinse under warm water.
Clear toxins, oils, and perspiration with a gentle body wash. Lightheadedness is common, so take it slow! - Secure all the good vibes.
One benefit to a baking soda bath is opening pores. Steer clear of harmful ingredients or toxins in future skincare steps. Finish by drying off and lathering with vegan–friendly lotion.
- Keep hydrating!
For best results, continue drinking water long after a baking soda bath.
Baking Soda Bath Enhancements
Baking soda brilliantly treats dry skin. To exfoliate, add a few drops of essential oils to 2 tablespoons of baking soda and water. Mix into a paste, then apply and briefly massage on lips. Wipe clean and finish with a healthy lip balm. Alternatively, add baking soda to face wash for gentle exfoliation of acne-prone skin.
Get gorgeous summer skin by dry brushing your body, then drawing a baking soda bath with warm water, 1–2 cups of baking soda, and ½ cup of apple cider vinegar.
Epsom salt is a kitchen staple linked to circulatory and blood pressure benefits. Drop ½ cup of Epsom salt into your baking soda bath and let nature do its work.
Another eco–friendly ingredient, add 1 cup of sea salt to your baking soda bath with a few drops of essential oil, like lavender or peppermint. Fresh and invigorating, eucalyptus helps to clear respiratory issues.
Detox hack: create a brightening face mask with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 teaspoons of coconut oil. Apply to clean skin and leave for 5 minutes, then remove with cold water.
5 Baking Soda Bath Benefits
What can you gain from a baking soda bath? Read on for six simple benefits.
1. Soothe Irritated Skin
Summer means more time outside. Too much sun can be painful, but a cool baking soda bath eases the burn. Leave skin feeling soft and smooth. Exposed to poison ivy or oak? Spare the painful rashes. Run a baking soda bath sooner rather than later to prevent plant oils from sinking in. Hydrate and renew the most sensitive skin with an ultra-moisturizing body lotion.
Safe for babies and kids, a baking soda bath is known to treat common issues like diaper rash, hives, and chickenpox. Use no more than 2 tablespoons and limit the bath to 10 minutes. Finish with a gentle lotion.
If a baking soda bath isn’t in the cards, mix cold water and ½ cup of baking soda into a paste. This approach is perfect for easy application in targeted areas, from bug bites to rashes. Alternatively, treat foot and nail fungi by filling enough water to soak for 10 minutes. Other skin conditions that reap baking soda bath benefits include eczema and psoriasis.
2. Soothe Sore Muscles
Your body deserves a break. Indulge in a baking soda bath to ease pain and tension. A baking soda bath relieves leg cramps, allowing muscles to open up. Kick back and watch streaming shows or read a book. Yes, please!
3. Promote Detoxification
You are what you eat. Turns out, many diets are filled with acidic foods like red meats, refined sugars, cheeses, and pre-packaged items. A baking soda bath helps to cleanse the body by neutralizing skin acidity. If you cook a lot, baking soda can easily remove stubborn food stains from your hands with gentle castile soap.
4. Reduce Body Odor
Summer temperatures lead to more sweat. A baking soda bath further triggers the release of toxins from pores through sweat. No time to soak? Offset body odor by patting baking soda and deodorant under the arms. You’ll feel fresh in no time!
Don’t forget about foot care. With sandal season ahead, pamper your toes in warm water and 1-3 tablespoons of baking soda. Dip feet in a large bowl for 15-20 minutes and use additional baking soda to exfoliate dead skin.
Heading out for the night? Instead of dry shampoo, sprinkle a small bit of baking soda onto your scalp and rub it in with your fingertips to absorb unwanted shine.
Baking soda is also effective in removing natural oil build-up from brushes and combs. Take a small bowl of water and add 1 tablespoon of baking soda, then soak the tools for 10 minutes. Rinse with cool water and leave to dry.
Similarly, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with your favorite shampoo to remove chemical buildup from sprays, conditioners, and other hair products. You’ll thank us later!
5. Boost Immune System
Inflammation relief is among the many perks of a baking soda bath. Who knew relaxation could lead to amazing health benefits?
A baking soda bath works wonders for women, easing the painful symptoms of urinary tract infections. An all-natural antiseptic, baking soda also fights germs that come with yeast infections. Find relief and jumpstart your journey to feeling better.
Any Safety Concerns?
Maybe a baking soda bath isn’t for you, and that’s okay! Skip this soak if you relate to any of the following conditions:
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Open Wounds
- Pregnant or Nursing
- Intoxication
- Faint Easily
Remember to test skin patches before use and discontinue if any irritation occurs. Other questions? Ask your primary care doctor about baking soda bath benefits.
Conclusion
Now that you know about the many perks of a baking soda bath, it’s time to spa! You deserve some “me” time. The Public Goods blog has everything you need to achieve ultimate relaxation. Go for it!
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