Its no BS that baking soda is one of the most versatile and useful (not to mention inexpensive) household items. In addition to cleaning and absorbing odors, baking soda is also useful for a particular summertime malady: bee stings. After you've cleaned the wound and removed the stinger, apply a water/baking soda paste to the affected area to soothe the pain. And if you're feeling the unbearable sting of plants like poison ivy, oak or sumac, or a prickly heat rash, a baking-soda paste (or bath) is a recommended treatment.