• Preheat oven to 400°F.

  Spread baking soda in an even layer on a baking sheet.

  Bake for 1 hour.

  Let cool completely.

  Transfer to a labeled airtight jar.

  You do not need to stir it while baking. As long as it’s in an even layer, the heat does the work.

What Happens When You Bake Baking Soda?

• Heating baking soda releases carbon dioxide and water vapor.

  What remains is sodium carbonate, also known as washing soda.

  Washing soda is more alkaline and stronger than baking soda, making it better for laundry, grease removal, and homemade cleaning products.

How to Tell It’s Ready

• Texture will be less fluffy and slightly grainy.

  It may clump slightly.

  Color remains white.

How to Use Washing Soda

• Homemade laundry detergent

  Dishwasher detergent

  Grease-heavy cleaning

  Hard water laundry booster

  Stripping towels

Storage

• Store in an airtight container in a dry place.

  Keep away from moisture.

Safety Notes

• Washing soda is more alkaline than baking soda.

  Avoid prolonged skin contact and avoid inhaling the powder.

  Keep out of reach of children and pets.