6 Clever Ways to Use Bicarbonate of Soda Outside the Home

When most people think of bicarbonate of soda, they immediately picture cleaning jobs inside the house. But this humble cupboard staple can be just as useful outdoors too.

Affordable, versatile and easy to use, bicarbonate of soda is one of my favourite natural cleaning allies. Whether you're tackling a grubby barbecue, freshening up wheelie bins or giving your garden furniture a refresh, it's a product worth keeping on hand.

Here are six simple ways to put bicarbonate of soda to work outside your home.

1. Refresh and Deodorise Wheelie Bins

Let's start with one of the least glamorous jobs!

Even after they've been emptied, wheelie bins can hold onto unpleasant odours, especially during warmer weather.

Sprinkle a generous amount of bicarbonate of soda into the bottom of the bin and leave it for a few hours before rinsing. For a deeper clean, make a paste with water, scrub the inside of the bin and rinse thoroughly.

It helps absorb lingering smells and leaves bins feeling much fresher.

2. Clean BBQ Grills

Summer barbecue season often leaves grills covered in burnt-on grease and food residue.

Mix bicarbonate of soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste. Apply it to cooled grill grates and leave for 15–20 minutes before scrubbing with a brush.

The mild abrasive action helps lift stubborn grime without the need for harsh chemicals.

3. Brighten Garden Furniture

Outdoor furniture can quickly become dirty from pollen, bird droppings, dust and general weathering.

Add a few tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda to warm water and use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down plastic and resin furniture.

It's particularly effective at removing light staining and restoring surfaces ready for summer entertaining.

4. Tackle Dirty Plant Pots

Terracotta and plastic plant pots often develop algae, mineral deposits and soil stains over time.

Create a paste using bicarbonate of soda and water, apply it to the pot and scrub with a brush. Rinse well before reusing.

It's a simple way to freshen up pots before planting new flowers, herbs or vegetables.

5. Freshen Outdoor Cushions

Garden cushions can sometimes develop musty smells after being stored away or exposed to damp conditions.

Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda generously over dry cushions and leave for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum away the powder afterwards.

This helps absorb odours and leaves cushions smelling fresher without the need for strong fragrances.

6. Clean Patio Toys and Outdoor Equipment

Children's outdoor toys, scooters, football goals and play equipment can quickly accumulate dirt and grime.

Add bicarbonate of soda to warm water and wipe down surfaces using a cloth or sponge.

It's an easy way to remove sticky marks, mud splashes and everyday dirt while helping outdoor toys look their best.

Final Thoughts

Bicarbonate of soda is one of those products that quietly earns its place in every home. While it's often associated with indoor cleaning, it can be incredibly useful outdoors too.

From freshening wheelie bins and cleaning barbecue grills to reviving garden furniture and outdoor toys, this simple household staple can help tackle a surprising number of jobs without costing a fortune.

The next time you're heading into the garden or sprucing up your outdoor space, don't forget to take a box of bicarbonate of soda with you it might just become your favourite outdoor cleaning companion.