The New Home Economics

Baking powder and baking soda are used as leaveners in baking. If they are not fresh you might not get the best results. 

The expiration and “best used by” dates are good guides to determine if an ingredient or product is still good for use.  These dates are usually printed or stamped on the container.  Check the bottom of the container.  Many ingredients lose some their effectiveness if stored over a long period of time, though the ingredient may not have reached it expiration date.

To test baking powder, put 1 teaspoon baking powder in 1/3 cup hot water.  Fresh baking powder will fizz.  If you don’t see any bubbles forming in the water, the baking powder is too old and should be tossed.

To test baking soda, mix ¼ teaspoon baking soda with two teaspoons vinegar.  If it fizzes immediately it is still good and can still be used.  If it does not fizz immediately it is too old to be used as a leavener.  Instead of tossing the baking soda, look on the box or package for other non-baking uses or visit http://www.armhammer.com .  Click the products link.

 I have used baking soda to clean jewelry (rings, necklaces).  Simply make a paste  (1 ½  Teaspoon baking soda + ½  teaspoon water).   This should clean a couple  silver, gold or silver/gold tone necklaces and rings.  To clean place jewelry on clean dry rag or cloth, then brush the baking soda mixture on the jewelry using an old toothbrush.  Rinse and dry with a soft cloth.  I use a piece of an old Tee shirt.  Your jewelry will shine.