Baking soda is one of the hardest-working ingredients around, with plenty of uses besides baking and getting rid of odors. Here are two of our favorite baking soda hacks.

Clean Your Fruits and Veggies

Fresh fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed to remove wax, dirt, chemicals, and contaminants. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends against using soap, household detergents, and commercial produce sprays when cleaning food.

A baking soda wash is a natural way to get rid of bacteria and residue. In fact, one study found that a baking soda solution is better at removing surface pesticide residue than plain old tap water.

Before peeling or prepping produce, give them a soak. Add 2 teaspoons of baking soda to every quart of cold water. Submerge the produce completely for 10 to 15 minutes. You can use a soft vegetable brush on sturdy produce such as carrots and melons, or run your fingers along the surface of thin-skinned fruit to loosen contaminants. Rinse well in cool water and dry thoroughly before using.

Treat Itchy Bug Bites

Mosquito bites are usually harmless, but can cause discomfort and itchiness for a few days while they heal. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends relieving the itch with a homemade baking soda remedy.

Place a tablespoon of baking soda in a small bowl and add just enough water to make a paste. After cleaning the bite with soap and water, pat the area dry. Apply the paste and let it sit for 10 minutes before washing off.