How to Store Baking Soda

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

1
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.
2
Buy baking soda in a box. You can store it in this box until it is used up or expires.

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3
Place the box in a resealable plastic bag after you open the cardboard baking soda box.
4
Push all of the air out of the plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly.
5
Keep the bagged baking soda box in a dry place. Cupboards are often the preferred place.
6
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.
7
Keep baking soda away from strong spices and odors. They can absorb some odors through the plastic bag.
8
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.
9
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.
10
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.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I store it in a glass jar?

Community Answer

Yes, you can. You can also store your baking powder in glass jars.
Question

What is baking soda used for besides baking?

Community Answer

It 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.
Question

Do I have to put baking soda that’s in plastic containers in the fridge?

Community Answer

Baking soda will keep in airtight plastic containers in your pantry, no need for refrigeration.