Apple cider vinegar and baking soda mixed together is a popular remedy at home with numerous uses. This mixture gained notoriety for being used as everything from health tonics to cleaning solutions. 

Nevertheless, “What happens when you mix baking soda and apple cider vinegar?” is an often asked question about this. 

You could experience the pros and cons from employing the baking soda and apple cider vinegar combo. 

What Happens When You Mix Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar

Key Takeaway

Creates a Fizzing Reaction – The acid in ACV reacts with the alkaline baking soda, releasing carbon dioxide.
May Aid Digestion – Some use the mixture as a natural antacid, but effects vary.
Common in Cleaning – The reaction helps break down grease and grime.
Not Always Safe for Ingestion – Overuse may disrupt stomach acid balance.

Expert Guide

Use in Moderation – Occasional use is safer; frequent intake may cause digestive issues.
Dilute Before Drinking – If consuming, mix with water to prevent irritation.
Test Before Cleaning – Ensure compatibility with surfaces before applying.
Consult a Doctor for Ingestion – If using for health reasons, seek medical advice first.

Understanding the Chemical Reaction between Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda

A chemical interaction between baking soda and apple cider vinegar results in the production of carbon dioxide gas. 

The bubbles in carbonated beverages are produced by the same gas. 

The following equation can be used to sum up the reaction:

NaHCO3+CH3COOH→CO2+H2O+CH3COONa

NaHCO3​+CH3​COOH→CO2​+H2​O+CH3COONa

Understanding the Chemical Reaction between Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda
Understanding the Chemical Reaction between Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda

Here’s what happens in step by step:

This reaction has benefits, particularly in the kitchen and cleaning.

  • Base-Acid Interaction: Apple cider vinegar’s acetic acid interacts with baking soda, which acts as a base.
  • Carbon Dioxide Gas Release: Foam and bubbles are produced by this procedure, which releases carbon dioxide gas.
  • Water and Sodium Acetate Formation: The by-products of this process are sodium acetate (CH3COONa) and water (H2O).

Related Articles: Does Apple Cider Vinegar have Alcohol? 

Practical Uses: From Cleaning to Personal Care

The following are some everyday uses for the interaction between baking soda and apple cider vinegar: 

Cleaning: 

Related Articles: Is There a Link Between Apple Cider Vinegar and Unusual Urine Odor?

Deodorizing: 

  • The combination is often used to refresh carpets, garbage cans, and refrigerators because it neutralizes smells. 
Practical Uses From Cleaning to Personal Care
Practical Uses From Cleaning to Personal Care

Skin Care: 

  • As a natural toner as well exfoliator, some individuals use this two ingredients together. 
  • Yet, since the mixture might be abrasive, it’s needed to dilute the vinegar and apply it sparingly to the skin. 

Hair Care:

  • Sometimes a diluted mixture is used as a clarifying rinse to help get rid of any oil buildup and leave hair looking shining. 

Cooking:

  • This combination can be used in baking recipes requiring for a leavening ingredient.
  • Dough rises with the help of the carbon dioxide the process produces. 

Related Articles: What Happens When You Mix Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar?

Myths or Health Benefits

Drinking apple cider vinegar and baking soda combo is said to have various health advantages. 

It’s important to act cautiously while addressing these claims, though.

  1. Digestive Aid

Some claim that consuming the mixture might improve digestion and reduce acid reflux. 

The theory is that while the vinegar offers probiotics, the baking soda balances stomach acid. 

Myths or Health Benefits
Myths or Health Benefits

The combination, though, can throw off the stomach’s normal acid-base balance.

  1. Weight Loss

The mixture’s help in weight reduction is another widely held belief. 

There is little proof that combining apple cider vinegar with baking soda improves weight reduction.

Despite the fact that it has been demonstrated to have some effect on appetite controls.

  1. Alkalizing the Body

Some claim that the combination balances pH levels by alkalizing the body. 

It is unlikely that consuming this mixture will have any significant impact on pH levels overall.

Related Articles: How To Make Buttermilk with Apple Cider Vinegar?

Is It Safe to Drink?

Using a diluted combination of these two once in a while might not be unsafe. 

Yet, combining baking soda and apple cider vinegar in a diet may pose some risks.

Digestive Issues 

Excessive consumption may result in uncomfortable digestive symptoms such bloating, cramping in the stomach and gas. 

Belching and bloating might be brought on by the carbon dioxide the stomach produces.

Electrolyte Imbalance

An electrolyte imbalance may result from regular use of baking soda, especially if high amounts are used. 

Weakness and cramping in the muscles are among the symptoms that may result from this.

Tooth Enamel Erosion 

Since apple cider vinegar is acidic, regular exposure can cause enamel erosion in teeth. 

One way to reduce this danger is to drink the mixture via a straw and then rinse your mouth thoroughly.

Interaction with Medications

Certain drugs may not absorb as well when baking soda is present. It’s important to speak with a doctor before using this mix on a regular basis.

Related Articles: Does Apple Cider Vinegar Get Old?

Safe Usage Tips

Here are some suggestions to make sure you make use of this combo safely and effectively if you’re thinking about doing so: 

  • Dilution: When using apple cider vinegar externally, especially on the skin and hair, dilute it with water to lessen its acidity.
  • Measure Carefully: Make sure you use the right amounts to prevent an excessively strong response diet sheriff

One part baking soda to two parts vinegar is usually a good ratio.

  • Test First: Make sure there are no irritations by doing a patch test before applying on skin and hair. 
  • Avoid Ingestion: If you plan to drink the mixture, think about consuming less to reduce any possible health concerns.
  • Use Moderately: Health problems may arise from using the combination excessively, especially internally. 

Remain moderate in your use and pay attention to how your body reacts.

Potential Side Effects 

Although there are several benefits to combining baking soda and apple cider vinegar, there are also some drawbacks: 

  • Skin Irritation: Sensitive skin may find the combination too abrasive, causing burning, irritation and also you may see redness.
  • Respiratory Issues: Those who have asthma or other respiratory issues may find that breathing in the fumes while mixing irritates their respiratory system.
  • Chemical Burns: Chemical burns may result from prolonged skin contact with the undiluted combination, particularly if large quantities are utilized. 
  • Unintended Reactions: An incorrectly measured mixture may result in an overly strong reaction. This might result in spills or possibly small explosions in small areas.

FAQs Of What Happens When You Mix Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar

Is it possible to clean fruits and veggies with this mixture?

Yes, but make sure to rinse well afterwards. 

If I prepare the combination ahead of time, how should I preserve it?

It’s advised to mix apple cider vinegar and baking soda only when needed.

How much time should pass before I clean surfaces after applying the mixture?

Allowing the mixture to settle for five to ten minutes is plenty for most cleaning tasks.

How can I clear clogged drains with the mixture?

First, pour apple cider vinegar down the drain, then baking soda. After a few minutes of fizzing, flush with hot water.

What is the correct ratio to combine apple cider vinegar with baking soda?

One part baking soda to two parts apple cider vinegar is the common ratio.

Categorized in:

Vinegar,

Last Update: March 11, 2025