Technically baking powder or baking soda won’t go “bad”, however they will start to loose their potency for baking. You might find yourself having issues with your baked goods not rising as they should, which can be frustrating. That is why it is important to know if it is time to replace your baking soda or baking powder. This is especially important if you are not an avid baker, because chances are you won’t use all of it before they need to be replaced. Below you can see how long each of them are supposed to last, and how to test if they need to be replaced. I like to keep track of the time by writing the date with a sharpie on the container once you open it. Or use a piece of masking tape on the bottom if you are keeping it in a glass container.

At the end there is a list of ways you can use any leftover baking powder or baking soda. There are many uses for them around the house even if they have lost their potency for baking!

When to Replace Baking Soda:

Baking soda will last for about 3-6 months in a open container (aka the box it came in) before you should replace it. If you transfer it to a closed container it could last over a year. If it is unopened it will last for several years, however not beyond the use by date on the bottom. Storing baking soda in a cool, dry place is best.

How to test if your baking soda needs to be replaced:

– Put a spoonful in a bowl
– Add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar
– If it starts to fizz immediately then it is still ok to use for baking

When to Replace Baking Powder:

Baking powder will last for about 6 months after the container is opened before it is time to be replaced. If it is unopened it will last for a few years, however not beyond the use by date on the bottom. Storing baking powder in a cool, dry place is best

How to test if your baking soda needs to be replaced:

– Put a spoonful in a bowl
– Add a little bit of hot water
– If it starts to bubble right away then it is still ok to use for baking

Don’t let any extra baking soda or baking powder go to waste! After it is time to replace your baking powder or baking soda for baking, use them around the house! Below are lists of alternative uses for baking soda and baking powder.

5 Uses for Baking Soda around the house:

1. Use it as a scratch free scrub: I especially like to use this in my sinks with a scrub sponge. Sprinkle over the surface, wet the sponge, then scrub. For my kitchen sink I will add dish soap.
2. Clean and deodorize your dishwasher: Sprinkle about 1 cup in your empty dishwasher and run it on the rinse cycle.
3. Add to a load of laundry: If you add 1/2 cup to a load of laundry it can help boost the effectiveness of your detergent, brighten your clothes, eliminate odors, and balance out the pH of the water.
4. Natural nausea remedy: Add 1/2 tsp to 4 oz. warm water and drink it. This helps balance out the pH in your stomach and can help with any nausea.
5. Fire Extinguisher: For a small grease fire never use water! You can try to cover with a lid, or use baking soda instead! Just sprinkle on top or throw near the base of the flames and it will put out the fire.

5 Uses for Baking Powder around the house:

1. Use it as a scratch free scrub: Baking powder can also be used as a scratch free scrub around your house, just like baking soda
2. Clean and deodorize your carpets: Baking powder or baking soda can be sprinkled on carpets before vacuuming. This will help take out any lingering odors.
3. Add to a load of laundry: If you add 1/2 cup to a load of laundry it can help boost the effectiveness of your detergent, brighten your clothes, eliminate odors, and balance out the pH of the water.
4. Clean your microwave: Add 2 tbsp of baking powder to 2 cups of water in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave for 2 minutes, then wipe clean.
5. For grease stains: If you have a grease stain on your clothes, sprinkle some baking powder on the spot to help soak it up. After a few minutes add some dish soap and scrub gently with a wet toothbrush.