Which common household item can act as a natural deodorizer?

Baking soda is recognized as an effective natural deodorizer due to its chemical properties. It works by neutralizing odors rather than simply masking them. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, reacts with acidic and basic odor molecules, helping to eliminate odors from surfaces and the air. This makes it particularly useful for deodorizing areas like refrigerators, carpets, and trash cans, where unpleasant smells tend to linger.

While vinegar is also a natural deodorizer, it can sometimes leave a vinegar smell behind as it evaporates. Bleach is primarily a disinfectant and not typically used for deodorizing, as it can produce strong fumes and may not effectively neutralize all types of odors. Soap is designed for cleaning rather than deodorizing, so it does not have the same odor-neutralizing capabilities as baking soda. Therefore, baking soda stands out as the most suitable choice for natural deodorizing in household settings.