Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a common household compound primarily used in cooking and cleaning. This white, powdery substance is frequently added to bathwater to create a soothing soak for various wellness and skin purposes. When dissolved, baking soda introduces mild alkaline properties, offering a temporary change to the water’s environment. Understanding the correct usage, preparation, and safety considerations is important.
Determining the Ideal Amount
The quantity of sodium bicarbonate needed depends on the size of the bathtub and the desired concentration. For an average-sized adult bathtub, a common starting point is one-half cup of baking soda. This amount is often increased to one full cup, depending on the condition being addressed. Some users opt for a stronger concentration, adding up to two cups for a more intense soak.
The amount should be reduced when preparing a bath for children or infants due to their smaller body size. For older children, a quarter cup is suggested. For babies and toddlers, the concentration must be kept low; one to two tablespoons are recommended for a baby bathtub or a partially-filled standard tub. Using excessive amounts for young children is discouraged because their skin can absorb the dissolved baking soda, which may pose a risk of metabolic changes.
Preparing and Taking the Soak
Preparation requires attention to water temperature and dissolution technique. The water temperature should be comfortably warm or lukewarm, rather than hot. Hot water can dry out or irritate the skin, which defeats the purpose of a soothing soak.
To ensure the sodium bicarbonate is evenly dispersed, add the powder while the bath is filling or stir it thoroughly once the tub is full. Complete dissolution is necessary for the substance to interact properly with the water and the skin. The recommended time for soaking is between 10 and 20 minutes for adults.
Soaking for too long may increase the risk of skin dryness. Once the soak is complete, rinse the skin briefly with fresh, clean water to remove any residue. Immediately following the rinse, applying a moisturizer is advised to lock in hydration.
Common Uses and Applications
The primary appeal of a sodium bicarbonate bath lies in its mild alkaline nature, which can help neutralize skin acidity. While healthy skin is slightly acidic, irritations can cause the surface pH to become unbalanced. By raising the pH of the bathwater, the alkalinity of the baking soda offers a soothing effect on irritated skin.
This soothing action is sought for relief from common skin discomforts like sunburn, bug bites, and rashes from poisonous plants such as poison ivy or poison oak. The bath may also help alleviate the persistent itching associated with conditions like eczema and chickenpox. For internal irritations, some people use baking soda baths to temporarily relieve symptoms related to yeast infections or urinary tract irritation.
The anti-fungal properties of sodium bicarbonate may also help create an unfavorable environment for certain fungal organisms. However, the bath is intended only to temporarily soothe external symptoms and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
Essential Safety Guidelines
A baking soda bath requires adherence to certain safety precautions. The addition of the powder can make the tub surface slippery, increasing the risk of falls when entering or exiting the bath. It is important to move slowly and use grab bars if available. Consuming water before and after the soak is suggested to maintain fluid balance.
Individuals with certain pre-existing medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider first. Those with open wounds, deep cuts, or severe skin abrasions should not use baking soda baths, as the compound can be absorbed through broken skin. The same caution applies to people with hypertension, heart conditions, or kidney issues. If any severe irritation or adverse reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek professional medical advice.