Mixing bay leaf and baking soda is an old “secret” used to deep-clean the atmosphere of a home and remove hidden odors that sprays can’t reach. While baking soda is famous for absorbing smells, bay leaves contain linalool and eucalyptol, which are natural oils that calm the nervous system and kill airborne bacteria.
When you combine them and let them sit for 15 minutes, the baking soda “draws out” the aromatic oils from the leaf. This creates a natural, slow-release diffuser that doesn’t just hide smells—it actually neutralizes the air molecules and leaves behind a scent that reduces stress and clears the sinuses.
Why You Will Be Shocked by the Results
- Eliminates “Invisible” Odors: It pulls out deep smells from carpets, trash cans, or old cabinets that have been there for years.
- Calms the Mind: Breathing in the scent of bay leaf helps lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and makes the room feel peaceful.
- Deters Insects: Many small pests like silverfish, ants, and moths hate the smell of bay leaves and will avoid any area where this mixture is placed.
- Clears the Lungs: The eucalyptol in the leaf helps open up the airways, making it easier to breathe in a stuffy room.
Recipe: The 15-Minute Home Refresh
This is the fastest way to use this “life hack” to change the energy and scent of your living space.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of Baking Soda
- 3 to 4 Dried Bay Leaves
- A small glass jar or bowl
Instructions:
- The Base: Pour the baking soda into the small bowl or jar.
- The Leaves: Tear the bay leaves into very small pieces using your hands. This is important because it “breaks the veins” of the leaf and releases the oils.
- The Mix: Stir the leaf pieces into the baking soda so they are fully covered.
- The Wait: Let it sit for 15 minutes. This is when the “shocking” change happens—the dry baking soda will start to carry the spicy, herbal scent of the leaves.
- The Placement: Place the bowl in your bathroom, closet, or near the entryway of your home.
- The Routine: Every few days, give the jar a little shake to “reactivate” the scent. Replace the mixture once a month.
Recipe: The Deep Carpet and Mattress Cleaner
If you want to remove the “old” smell from a mattress or a rug, use this version of the recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of Baking Soda
- 5 Bay Leaves (Ground into a powder using a blender or mortar and pestle)
- 5 drops of Lavender Oil (Optional, for extra relaxation)
Instructions:
- The Blend: Mix the powdered bay leaves and baking soda thoroughly in a container.
- The Sprinkle: Lightly dust the mixture over your mattress or carpet.
- The Time: Let it sit for 20 minutes. The baking soda will pull out moisture and smells, while the bay leaf kills dust mites.
- The Vacuum: Vacuum the area thoroughly. You will be amazed at how fresh and “new” the fabric feels and smells.
Three Reasons This is a Must-Try
- Better than Candles: Most candles are made of paraffin wax which can be toxic, but this is 100% natural and safe for your lungs.
- Helps with Sleep: Placing a small jar of this on your nightstand can help you fall asleep faster due to the calming properties of the bay leaf.
- Saves Money: You can buy a huge box of baking soda and a bag of bay leaves for just a few dollars, and it will last you for an entire year of home cleaning.
A Friendly Tip for Success
For an even stronger effect, you can add a pinch of cloves to the mix. This creates a warm, spicy scent that makes your home feel incredibly cozy during the winter months. You’ll know the “Bay Leaf Hack” is working when you walk into your home and the air feels “light,” clean, and completely free of any cooking or pet odors!
