Baking soda can do so much more than simply help your baked goods rise. When applied to messes around the house, this powdery substance acts as an odor-absorber and a mild abrasive that can quickly loosen stuck-on gunk without damaging the surface. Pair baking soda with other household cleaners, such as dishwashing liquid, and it becomes an even more powerful cleaning agent, allowing you to break through greasy residue, polish metal, unclog drains, and more.