Baking Soda Hair Rinse

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Give your hair the refresh it needs! This baking soda hair rinse is simple to whip up, and it works wonders to clarify the hair by removing buildup and excess oil.

Pouring baking soda hair rinse into the hair over a bathroom sink.

You may have heard of the “no poo” method of hair washing, in which you don’t use any shampoo, just a baking soda wash.

As I’m a very happy user of homemade rosemary shampoo, I never found this method too compelling.

However, I recently learned how effective baking soda hair rinses can be for clarifying hair, and I’m sold on them!

Baking soda hair rinse is wonderful for removing product buildup, reducing oiliness, and giving your hair a refresh when it’s feeling dull and heavy.

It works a lot like a homemade clarifying shampoo, but it’s even easier to make.

This hair rinse is best for occasional use only, but you’re going to love how your hair feels after you use it.

If you have oily hair or buildup on your scalp, this is something you may want to try. Be sure to read the tips and warnings before you begin!

Why You’ll Love It
Ingredients
How to Make Baking Soda Hair Rinse
How to Use Baking Soda Hair Rinse
Precautions
Expert Tips
Recipe FAQs
Related Recipes
Baking Soda Hair Rinse Recipe

Why You’ll Love It

2 ingredients: When it comes to hair care, simple is often best. This hair rinse uses just 2 ingredients!
Easy to use: A baking soda hair rinse will fit seamlessly into your hair care routine. It takes less than 5 minutes total to make and use.
Natural ingredients: You don’t have to read labels or guess at ingredients with this simple DIY. Baking soda and water — that’s all it takes!
Gorgeous hair: Baking soda hair rinse isn’t for anyone, but if you have oily, flat hair with product or mineral buildup, it’s going to help so much!

Ingredients

Baking soda: This is the star ingredient that works to strip hair of excess oil, dirt, and buildup. It can be very harsh on skin and hair, so always use it in moderation (keep reading for use guidelines).
Water: Filtered water is best, especially if you have hard water.

How to Make Baking Soda Hair Rinse

Pouring water into a small glass mason jar.

Step 1. Add the water to a 6-oz container.

Pouring baking soda into a glass jar of water.

Step 2. Add the baking soda to the warm water and stir until a runny paste is formed.

Step 3. Pour the mixture over wet hair, focusing on the scalp and roots.

Massaging baking soda hair rinse into the hair and scalp.

Step 4. Gently massage it in using your fingertips to release dirt and buildup

Step 5. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water, making sure no residue remains.

How to Use Baking Soda Hair Rinse

Baking soda hair rinse is intended for occasional use only, to clarify the hair. It’s best to use it on an as-needed basis, when you feel there is noticeable buildup on the hair or scalp.

Always rinse your hair thoroughly after use so there is no residue left behind, and follow up with a conditioner or gentle hair rinse if needed.

Also consider using a diluted apple cider vinegar rinse afterward to help restore balance to the hair and soften it.

Precautions

This baking soda hair rinse is meant for occasional use only. Hair and scalp needs vary from person to person, so it’s always a good idea to patch test first and pay attention to how your hair responds. I also recommend checking with your healthcare provider before trying anything new. You should only use this on oily hair. Do not use on dry hair.

Baking soda can slightly lighten hair.

Expert Tips

You can adjust the amounts based on your hair length.
This rinse should only be used very occasionally as a clarifier, not as a daily routine.
Be sure to rinse thoroughly so all of the baking soda is washed away once it has done its job.
Follow up with a gentle conditioner, like my homemade conditioner.
If your hair feels dry after use, extend the time between rinses.
This rinse works best when paired with simple, gentle hair care products.
If you have hard water, I recommend using filtered water for the baking soda hair rinse. You’ll also like homemade shampoo for hard water buildup.

Massaging baking soda rinse into hair in a bathroom.

Recipe FAQs

How often can I use a baking soda hair rinse?

Baking soda can be helpful for removing buildup, but it is also naturally drying. Because of this, it should not replace regular shampooing or be used as part of a daily hair routine. Think of it as an as-needed step rather than an everyday wash. Some experts only recommend using this once or twice a year.

Is baking soda safe to use on your hair?

Yes, baking soda is generally safe on your hair and skin. That said, it can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. This is why I recommend the rinse be used very sparingly, as an occasional clarifying product. If you’re unsure how you respond to baking soda-based products, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test on a small part of your scalp before using the hair rinse everywhere.

Is baking soda hair rinse good for all hair types?

Baking soda can be harsh and drying on hair, so I don’t suggest using it on dry, frizzy, or brittle hair. It’s best for oily hair only.

Will baking powder work?

No, I don’t recommend using baking powder in your hair. Stick with 100% baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).

Related Recipes

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