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Baking soda, or bicarbonate of soda, is a strong leavening agent used in recipes that contain acids like vinegar or lemon juice. Baking soda reacts with liquid ingredients to produce carbon dioxide gas, which will make a baked good rise. Dry ingredients have a limited shelf life. You may find that when you try to use baking soda after it has expired, it is caked together and has reduced leavening power. Baking soda usually comes in a box, and you may need to use other containers to store it properly. This article will tell you how to properly store baking soda.
Steps
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Keep separate boxes of baking soda for deodorizing, household cleaning and baking. Open boxes of baking soda are often kept inside the refrigerator and replaced every few months to draw odors from the environment. This soda will lose its efficacy quickly and should not be saved for baking. -
Buy baking soda in a box. You can store it in this box until it is used up or expires.Advertisement
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Place the box in a resealable plastic bag after you open the cardboard baking soda box.
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Push all of the air out of the plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly.
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Keep the bagged baking soda box in a dry place. Cupboards are often the preferred place.
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Choose a storage place that will stay cool. You want the temperature to remain constant in order to keep it fresh, so choose a cupboard away from the stove range, microwave, refrigerator or coffee pot.
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Keep baking soda away from strong spices and odors. They can absorb some odors through the plastic bag.
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Remove the baking soda from its storage place before using. Smell it to see if it has absorbed odors. Remove some soda with a spoon to see if it has absorbed moisture and lost efficacy.
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Store baking soda in this way for 2 to 3 years. Always test by smelling and feeling the texture of the bicarbonate of soda before using to see if it is still fresh.
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Use dry measuring spoons whenever you remove baking soda for a recipe. Using wet or contaminated utensils will activate the baking soda and reduce its shelf life.
Video
Community Q&A
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QuestionCan I store it in a glass jar?Community AnswerYes, you can. You can also store your baking powder in glass jars.
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QuestionWhat is baking soda used for besides baking?Community AnswerIt has cleaning and deodorizing properties. People often keep an open box in the fridge to limit odors, or you can sprinkle it on your carpet and then vacuum it up.
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QuestionDo I have to put baking soda that’s in plastic containers in the fridge?Community AnswerBaking soda will keep in airtight plastic containers in your pantry, no need for refrigeration.
Tips
- Baking powder has different storage requirements than baking soda. It should also be sealed well and placed in a cool dry place. After the package is opened, it will last for approximately 6 months.Thanks
Things You'll Need
- Plastic/mylar bag
- Cool, dry cupboard
- Dry measuring spoons
References
About This Article
The best way to store baking soda after you’ve opened the box is to pour it into a resealable plastic bag. Push all of the air out, seal it, and place the bag in a cupboard away from sources of heat or cold, like the stove or refrigerator, and strong spices or odors. Store your baking soda here for 2-3 years. When you’re ready to use it, smell it to make sure it hasn’t absorbed odors. Remove some with a spoon to make sure it hasn’t absorbed any moisture and lost its freshness. If you want to learn how to maintain baking soda's shelf life, keep reading the article!
