The Why and How of Storing Baking Soda Long-Term

I’ve been into prepping lately, and I’m always looking for long-term ways to store things. I was at the grocery store the other day and saw that they had a big sealed plastic bucket or storage container of baking soda on sale, so I grabbed it. But then I started to wonder how to store baking soda long term. Can you even do that? And if so, how? Well, today I’m going to answer those questions for you. So let get started.

Why Should You Store Baking Soda for Emergencies?

Baking soda is one of those items that you should always have on hand, especially if you’re into prepping. That’s because baking soda has a lot of uses, both in cooking and in emergency situations. For example, baking soda can put out fires, clean up spills, and even treat medical conditions like diarrhea. So it’s definitely a good idea to have some on hand, just in case.

Different Uses You Can Give to Baking Soda in an Emergency

Baking soda is one of those items that you always want to have on hand. It has so many uses, from cleaning to cooking to personal hygiene. But what about in an emergency? Can baking soda really help you out when the power goes out, or water isn’t available?

Absolutely! Baking soda can be a life-saver in an emergency. 

Here are a few ways you can use it:

Check our guide about storing flour long-term by clicking here.

Improve Digestion And Reduce Gas:

Baking soda can help to relieve indigestion and reduce gas. Simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water and drink it down.

Rashes:

If you develop a rash, baking soda can help to soothe the itch and inflammation. Apply a paste with baking soda and water to the affected area.

Bug Bites:

Baking soda can also help to relieve the itch and swelling of bug bites. Again, just make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the bite.

Nausea:

Mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water can help settle your stomach if you’re nauseous.

Canker Sores:

Baking soda can help to heal canker sores. Simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda with water and swish it around in your mouth for a minute or two before spitting it out.

Clean Battery Terminals:

If your car battery is acting up, baking soda can help. Simply sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth and wipe down the terminals.

As you can see, baking soda is a versatile product that can be used for many different things, even in an emergency. So, how do you make sure you always have some on hand?

How Much Baking Soda Should You Store?

The amount of baking soda you should store long-term depends on how you plan to use it.

• You will need about one pound per person per year for food preparation and cooking. If you don’t have baking powder, then you should store three pounds.

• For personal hygiene, two pounds will be sufficient.

• For medicine and first aid, you will need one pound.

• For cleaning and deodorizing, you should store five pounds per household.

• And for miscellaneous needs, one pound will be enough.

So how much baking soda should you store? It really depends on your specific needs.

You might also want to learn the proper way of storing pancake mix for emergencies.

What is the Shelf Life of Baking Soda?

The shelf life of baking soda is three years, but it can last indefinitely if stored correctly. Baking soda should be stored in a cool, dry place. You can store it in the fridge or freezer to extend its shelf life.

Long Term Storage Methods for Baking Soda

Because of its many uses, you may want to consider how to store baking soda long term so that you always have some on hand.

There are several ways to do this, each with its own advantages.

1. Vacuum Sealing

Vacuum sealing is an effective way to store baking soda properly long term. By removing the air from the bag, you prevent moisture and oxygen from coming into contact with the baking soda, which can cause it to degrade. This method also keeps out pests and other contaminants.

To vacuum airtight seal baking soda, you will need a vacuum sealer and bags. Place the baking soda in the bag and seal it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it.

2. Mylar Bags

Mylar bags are another option for how to store baking soda long term. These bags are made of a material impervious to oxygen and moisture, making them ideal for storing baking powder.

To use Mylar bags, simply place the baking soda in the plastic bag and seal it. You can then store the plastic bag in a cool, dry place.

Mylar bags are a good option if you do not have a vacuum sealer, or if you want to be able to store the baking soda in a smaller space.

3. Mason Jars

Another viable option you can consider when it comes to how to store baking soda long term is to use mason jar. They are airtight and can be sealed tightly, preventing moisture and oxygen from getting in. It’s oxygen absorber packets and oxygen absorbers.

To use Mason jars, simply place the baking soda in the jar and seal it. You can then store the jar in a cool, dry place.

4. Airtight Plastic Containers

Keeping in an airtight plastic container works too. This will help prevent the baking soda from absorbing moisture and becoming clumpy.

Once you’ve locked it in a storage container, store it in a dark and dry place because baking soda is sensitive to light and humidity. Hence, doing so extends its shelf life.

Can You Store Baking Soda in the Freezer or Refrigerator?

Yes, you can store in the freezer or refrigerator. Just be sure to put it in an airtight container, so it doesn’t absorb any odors from your food. It will last indefinitely if stored this way.

What Can Ruin Your Stored Baking Soda and How to Prevent It?

It is an essential ingredient in many recipes but doesn’t last forever. Once opened, baking soda will slowly lose its potency and eventually go bad. However, a few things can speed up this process and ruin your stored baking soda.

One of the biggest enemies of baking soda is moisture. Baking soda is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. Therefore, if It is stored in a humid environment, it will absorb moisture and become clumped together. This will make it less effective as a leavening agent and cause it to spoil. 

Another thing that can ruin your stored baking soda is heat. It is sensitive to high temperatures and can decompose if exposed to too much heat. This will cause it to lose its potency and may even cause it to catch fire. 

To prevent this, store your baking soda in an airtight container and put it in a dark and cool place.

We also recommend checking out our article about the different options for storing oats for emergencies.

How to Test Your Baking Soda to Know if It’s Still Good to Use?

• Vinegar and boiling water test: Take some boiling water, add vinegar, and put baking soda in it. If it is still good, it will fizz and bubble. If it doesn’t do either of those things, it’s time to toss it and get a new box.

• Lemon juice test: Mix a little bit of lemon juice with your baking soda reacts. If it fizzes, it’s still good to use.

How to Prevent Your Baking Soda from Clumping?

One of the best ways to store baking soda long term is to prevent it from clumping. Clumped baking soda can’t be used for much, so it’s essential to keep it as fresh as possible. Here are a few tips on how to do that:

• Store in an airtight container: This will keep it from absorbing moisture from the air and clumping.

• If you live in a humid climate, consider storing baking powder in the fridge. Just make sure to put it in an airtight container first!

• If your old baking soda does start to clump, you can break it up with a fork or chop it into smaller pieces.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your baking soda stays fresh and usable for a long time. So next time you’re stocking up on baking supplies, don’t forget the baking soda! It’s an essential ingredient for many recipes… and it has a long shelf life too!

You can store baking soda in empty spice jar, if you don’t want to store it in the cardboard box.

The Final Word

If you’re looking to store baking soda longer time, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, keep it in an airtight container and a cool, dry place. You’ll also want to check on it periodically to make sure it hasn’t expired baking soda. 

With these tips in mind, you can be sure your baking soda will stay fresh and last a long time.

I hope this article helped answer any questions you may have about how of storing baking powder long-term.