Does baking soda expire?

One thing everyone probably has lying around their kitchen is baking soda. But if you’re like me, you don’t use much of it. In fact, it’s been so long since you pulled it out, you’re wondering if it’s gone bad.

Does baking soda expire?

An unopened box of baking soda will last between 18 months and two years. Or look at the expiration date on the box. After it's opened, baking soda will last approximately eight months. It’s not unusable after eight months, but it won’t give your food the fluff and texture it needs!

What happens if you use expired baking soda?

If you use expired baking soda, your food won’t have the fluffy shape and texture that you want. It’ll look kind of like a deflated basketball. But, even if your baked goods don’t rise, using expired baking soda shouldn’t affect the taste.

Will expired baking soda hurt you?

No, expired baking soda does not hurt you. Your baked goods won’t rise as much as they would with fresh baking soda. Too much baking soda does not taste good, so make sure that you use the appropriate amount depending on the recipe. In large amounts, it can be dangerous. But it’s rare to put that much baking soda into a recipe that it would cause harm.

Can expired baking soda be used for cleaning?

Yes, expired baking soda can be used for cleaning most household surfaces. It works great on stainless steel appliances and cookware. But stay away from aluminum or marble surfaces, which baking soda can damage.

How do you test baking soda?

To test if baking soda is still good, see if it reacts with vinegar.

Place two teaspoons of baking soda in a bowl.
Place two teaspoons of vinegar in a bowl.
Look for bubbles. Add a little vinegar if you don’t get a reaction.
After 30 to 45 seconds, if there’s no reaction, your baking soda is expired.

You can still use expired baking soda to clean but it’s best to use fresh baking soda for cookies, muffins, and other baked goods.

How do you store baking soda long-term?

For the longest-lasting baking soda, store it in an airtight container. Don’t keep baking soda in its current container if it’s not airtight. You don’t want the baking soda to come into contact with water. Otherwise, it will become lumpy and lose its potency.

Can you store baking soda in a plastic container?

Yes, you can store baking soda in a plastic container as long as it is sealed tight. Any exposure to moist air or moisture will make baking soda go bad faster.

Can you store baking soda in a mason jar?

Yes, you can store baking soda in an air-tight mason jar. It will last for about eight months if it doesn’t come into contact with any moisture. After that, you can use it to clean surfaces and appliances around the house like your stovetop, microwave, and sink.

Can you use baking soda after it's been in the fridge?

Yes, but it might not be as effective as fresh baking soda. Also, baking soda absorbs moisture and odors incredibly well. So if it’s left in your fridge for too long, it may make your baked goods taste weird. You can put some of it in a bowl with vinegar to see if it bubbles. If it does, the baking soda is active and you can use it in your recipes. If not, you should find fresh baking soda.