Baking soda is far more than just a kitchen staple. In a survival scenario, it can be a valuable multipurpose tool, offering solutions for everything from first aid to fire safety. Here are 15 survival uses for baking soda that could make all the difference in a crisis.
1. Neutralize Skin Irritations

Baking soda can relieve itching and discomfort from insect bites, poison ivy, or rashes. Simply mix it with a bit of water to create a paste and apply it to the affected area. As it dries, the paste draws out toxins and soothes the irritation.
2. Extinguish Small Fires

Baking soda can act as an effective fire extinguisher in a pinch. When sprinkled onto a small flame, it releases carbon dioxide, cutting off the oxygen supply to the fire. While it may not be suitable for large blazes, it’s a helpful backup for small cooking or campfire incidents.
3. Clean and Deodorize Camp Gear

From cookware to sleeping bags, baking soda’s gentle abrasiveness can help remove grime from essential gear. It’s also great for deodorizing items that may start to smell after days of use, making it a powerful tool for keeping your camp gear fresh.
4. Treat Heartburn and Indigestion

If antacids aren’t available, a small amount of baking soda mixed with water can relieve heartburn. Its alkaline properties help neutralize stomach acid, though it’s best to take it on an empty stomach for optimal results.
5. Combat Odor in Shoes and Boots

Shoes and boots can start to smell in extended survival situations. Sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside your footwear to absorb moisture and odors. This small trick can help keep your camp or tent more bearable and improve foot hygiene.
6. DIY Toothpaste

If you run out of toothpaste, baking soda makes a great alternative. Its mild abrasive nature helps to scrub away plaque, leaving your teeth feeling clean. A little water and baking soda on a toothbrush can go a long way in keeping your mouth fresh.
7. Relieve Sore Feet

Sore feet are almost guaranteed in a survival situation, but soaking them in a bath of water and baking soda can offer some relief. The combination helps to ease tension and soften calluses, providing much-needed comfort after a long day of walking or working.
8. Clean Battery Terminals

Corrosion on battery terminals can prevent your gear from working. Baking soda mixed with water can dissolve corrosion on battery terminals, making it easier to keep important tools and vehicles functional when you need them most.
9. Freshen Up Personal Hygiene

In situations where soap may be limited, baking soda can act as a basic hand cleaner. Mixed with water, it creates an exfoliating paste that removes dirt and kills odors, keeping you clean and reducing the spread of germs.
10. Dislodge Splinters

If a splinter is stuck under the skin and won’t budge, soak the affected area in a baking soda solution. Over time, this method can help loosen the skin and allow the splinter to come out more easily.
11. Improve Water for Drinking

Baking soda can make questionable water more palatable by reducing bitterness or acidity, though it doesn’t filter out impurities. If you have no other options, it can at least make less-than-ideal water a bit easier to drink.
12. Polish Pots and Pans

Over time, campfire cooking can leave residue on your pots and pans. Baking soda, combined with a bit of scrubbing, can help cut through the grease and grime, extending the life of your cookware in the field.
13. Wash Your Camp Dishes

In a crisis where dish soap is unavailable, baking soda can be an effective alternative for washing dishes. Its abrasiveness helps scrub off food particles, while its deodorizing properties prevent lingering odors.
14. Emergency Deodorant

Baking soda can be used as a makeshift deodorant to keep body odor at bay. Simply rub a small amount under your arms to absorb sweat and neutralize odor, making it a quick fix for maintaining personal hygiene in close quarters.
15. Performance Boost for Endurance

In endurance-based situations, athletes have used baking soda to help reduce muscle acidity and improve performance. Mixing a small amount with water can give a subtle energy boost, potentially helping you push through a physically demanding task.
A Simple Solution with Big Benefits

Baking soda’s versatility and long shelf life make it a valuable addition to any survival kit. From first aid to fire safety, its applications cover a wide range of needs that can be crucial when resources are scarce. And, as a non-toxic, affordable household item, it’s easy to keep on hand for emergencies.
Why Baking Soda is a Survival Essential

With its endless uses, baking soda should be considered a survival essential. Compact, lightweight, and incredibly useful, this humble powder can be a lifesaver. Whether you’re dealing with the discomfort of a splinter, the hassle of food residue on pans, or the need to neutralize odors, baking soda can be a reliable fallback solution.
Stock Up and Experiment

If you haven’t already, consider buying a few extra boxes of baking soda to store with your survival supplies. Test out some of these methods now, so you’ll be prepared to use them confidently if a crisis strikes.

A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.