Neutralize small acid spills with baking soda

Baking soda converts common acids into harmless sodium salts, water, and carbon dioxide, and the reaction works reliably on a hard surface in a garage or workshop. It handles sulfuric acid from car and deep-cycle batteries, hydrochloric (muriatic) acid used for pool and concrete work, phosphoric acid in rust removers, and weak acids like vinegar and citric acid. For anything beyond a minor spill, a professional cleanup or a purpose-built acid spill kit is a far better choice than a kitchen staple.

• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
• Clean water for rinsing
• Optional: petroleum jelly for battery terminal protection

1. For acid spills from batteries or household chemicals, put on gloves and eye protection first if available. Spread baking soda generously across the entire spill until the liquid is fully covered. It will fizz and bubble as the acid is neutralized, which is normal, but the reaction is exothermic and gives off real heat, so do not lean over the spill. Wait until the fizzing stops completely, then sweep or wipe up the residue with a cloth or stiff brush, and rinse the area with clean water if the surface allows.
2. For corroded battery terminals, disconnect the cables first (negative cable first). Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the corroded or leaking areas, let the reaction finish, and wipe clean with a dry cloth. Apply petroleum jelly (Recipe 18.3) or dedicated terminal grease to the cleaned terminals before reconnecting to prevent future corrosion. Work in a well-ventilated area because lead-acid batteries normally vent hydrogen gas, which is explosive in high enough concentrations
3. For acid on skin, get it off and flood it with water; do not try to neutralize a skin burn with baking soda, since the heat from that reaction can deepen the injury. Brush off any dry powder first and remove contaminated clothing or jewelry, then flush the area with plenty of cool (not cold) running water for at least 20 minutes, using a gentle flow rather than a hard spray. Do not apply creams, ointments, or home remedies, which can trap chemical against the skin. Cover loosely with a clean cloth and seek medical attention for any burn that blisters, covers more than a palm-sized area, or involves the eyes.

Store in sealed containers away from moisture and corrosive substances with indefinite shelf life when kept dry. Keep a labeled, dedicated container near battery storage, workshop, and tool areas for immediate access during a spill. Best container: sealed HDPE container or glass jar, keep moisture-free. Avoid metal in humid conditions (promotes corrosion). See the Containers section.