Sugar, Bicarbonate of Soda and Washing-up Liquid: a Simple Cleaning Paste

The combination of sugar, bicarbonate of soda and washing-up liquid has become increasingly common in many household cleaning routines in 2026. This simple, low-cost mix is frequently shared on social media and in everyday home tips as an alternative way to tackle grease, built-up grime and lingering smells in different parts of the home-particularly for those trying to cut down on harsh products on kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

How does the sugar, bicarbonate of soda and washing-up liquid mixture work for cleaning?

What makes the sugar, bicarbonate of soda and washing-up liquid mixture stand out is that each ingredient plays a supporting role in lifting dirt. The washing-up liquid provides surfactants that break down greasy molecules, helping water to carry residue away more easily.

Bicarbonate of soda works as a gentle cleaner and helps neutralise odours, while granulated sugar acts as a mild abrasive. Combined, they create a paste that helps loosen stuck-on grease and dirt without being as harsh as wire wool or highly corrosive products.

Which surfaces are best suited to a bicarbonate, sugar and washing-up liquid mix?

This homemade cleaning paste can be used in various places around the home, as long as you consider how durable the material is. In kitchens, it is often applied to sinks, tiles, hobs and pans where grease has stuck on; in bathrooms, it can help with soap marks and light day-to-day grime.

Overall, the mixture tends to work best on hard surfaces such as stainless steel, ceramic, toughened glass and some metal pans. With more delicate materials-such as polished marble, varnished finishes, polished aluminium or sensitive non-stick coatings-it is best to test it first on a hidden area and keep friction to an absolute minimum.

How to make and apply a cleaning paste with sugar, bicarbonate and washing-up liquid

Making the paste is quick and straightforward, needing only a bowl and a spoon. The most common ratio is two parts washing-up liquid to one part bicarbonate of soda and one part sugar, producing a creamy texture that spreads easily with a sponge or a damp cloth in small amounts.

For easier everyday use, follow these basic steps for preparation and consistency adjustments so the mixture stays smooth and suits the kind of cleaning you want to do:

• Gather the ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons of liquid washing-up liquid;
  • 1 tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda;
  • 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar or coarse sugar.
• Mix thoroughly:
  • Put everything into a clean bowl;
  • Stir until you get an even paste with no obvious lumps.
• Adjust the texture:
  • If it is too runny, add a little more bicarbonate of soda;
  • If it is too thick, add a few extra drops of washing-up liquid or water.

Important precautions when using the sugar, bicarbonate of soda and washing-up liquid mixture

Although this combination is milder than many strong chemical cleaners, it is not suitable for every surface. Sugar and bicarbonate of soda are mildly abrasive, which can scratch delicate materials such as certain natural stones, varnished furniture or shiny decorative finishes.

For a safer cleaning routine, it is advisable to test the paste in an inconspicuous spot, avoid heavy pressure when scrubbing, and rinse very thoroughly-especially on surfaces that come into contact with food. It can also be helpful to mix small amounts for immediate use, and to watch for any change in texture or smell if you keep it briefly in a sealed container.