9 things you didn't know you could do with bicarb

1. Keep a small amount of bicarb in a bowl in the fridge, freezer and cupboards to absorb odours.

2. To clean bathrooms and kitchens, sprinkle bicarb on a damp sponge and use to clean tiles, sanitaryware, kitchen surfaces and appliances. Rinse with clean water.

3. Make a paste of three parts bicarb to one part water and rub on silver. Rinse with warm water and dry and shine with a soft cloth.

4. To clean carpets and mats, sprinkle lightly with bicarb and allow to stand for 15 minutes before vacuuming.

5. Return burnt pots to their former glory by sprinkling with a generous amount of bicarb, add hot water, a squirt of dishwashing liquid and allow to stand overnight. Drain and wash well.

6. To clean drains, dissolve one cup of bicarb in hot water and pour down the drain followed by a cup of warmed white vinegar.

7. To boost the cleaning power of washing powder add 2 tablespoons of bicarb to a load.

8. Apply a paste of bicarb and water to remove grease stains before washing.

9. Clean braai grids and griddle pans by sprinkling with bicarb before soaking in warm water.