Tired of grimy, stained kitchen tiles that just won’t come clean? Fear not! With a simple ingredient found in most households, your kitchen tiles can shine like new. Baking soda, that magical white powder we typically use for our culinary adventures, is about to become your go-to solution for sparkling clean tiles.
In this article, we will explore the wonders of baking soda as a cleaning agent and guide you through the process of transforming your kitchen into a spotless haven. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to an eco-friendly and budget-friendly approach to cleaning your kitchen tiles!
Why Use Baking Soda for Cleaning Kitchen Tiles?
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile and eco-friendly cleaning agent that can be used in various ways around the home. It is particularly effective for cleaning kitchen tiles due to its non-toxic nature, gentle abrasiveness, and ability to break down grease and grime.
One of the primary reasons to use baking soda for cleaning kitchen tiles is its natural composition. Unlike many commercial cleaners that contain harsh chemicals, baking soda is safe to use around food preparation areas and poses no risk to children or pets. This makes it an ideal choice for maintaining a clean and healthy kitchen environment.
Another advantage of using baking soda is its gentle abrasive quality. The fine granules help remove dirt, stains, and scuff marks from tile surfaces without causing damage or scratching. This makes it suitable for both ceramic and porcelain tiles, as well as other delicate materials like glass or natural stone.
Furthermore, baking soda has deodorizing properties, which can help neutralize lingering odors in the kitchen. When combined with other natural ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice, it forms a powerful cleaning solution capable of tackling even the toughest stains and grime.
Finally, using baking soda as a cleaning agent is also a cost-effective option. A box of baking soda typically costs just a few dollars and can last for numerous cleaning sessions. By choosing to clean your kitchen tiles with baking soda instead of purchasing specialized cleaning products, you can save money while still achieving excellent results.
In summary, using baking soda for cleaning kitchen tiles offers numerous benefits such as being eco-friendly, non-toxic, gentle on surfaces, deodorizing, and cost-effective. Its versatility allows it to be combined with other natural ingredients for increased effectiveness in tackling various types of stains and dirt found in the kitchen area.
The Benefits of Baking Soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a popular and versatile household cleaning agent. It offers various benefits that make it an excellent choice for cleaning kitchen tiles.
Firstly, baking soda is non-toxic and eco-friendly, making it safe to use around children, pets, and individuals with allergies or sensitivities to harsh chemical cleaners. This means that you won’t have to worry about any harmful side effects when using baking soda to clean your kitchen tiles.
Secondly, baking soda is a natural deodorizer. It neutralizes odors by reacting with acidic and alkaline compounds found in many common household smells. This property makes it particularly useful for removing unpleasant odors from kitchen tiles that may have absorbed cooking smells or other lingering scents.
Another significant benefit of using baking soda for cleaning kitchen tiles is its mild abrasive properties. Baking soda can effectively remove dirt, grease, and grime without scratching the tile surface. This gentle abrasiveness helps maintain the appearance of your tiles while keeping them clean and free from damage.
Additionally, baking soda is a cost-effective option for cleaning your kitchen tiles. A box of baking soda typically costs much less than commercial tile cleaners, making it an affordable alternative without sacrificing effectiveness.
Lastly, baking soda has antibacterial properties which can help eliminate germs and bacteria on your kitchen tiles. This ensures that your kitchen surfaces are not only visibly clean but also hygienic and safe for food preparation.
In summary, using baking soda for cleaning kitchen tiles provides several advantages such as being non-toxic, eco-friendly, deodorizing, mildly abrasive yet gentle on surfaces, cost-effective, and antibacterial. These benefits make it an ideal choice for maintaining clean and hygienic kitchen tiles without relying on harsh chemicals or expensive products.
Preparing the Baking Soda Solution
To prepare the baking soda solution, you have two main options: mixing it with water or vinegar. Both alternatives offer effective cleaning results, but their use may vary depending on the level of dirt and stains on your kitchen tiles.
Mixing Baking Soda with Water
For regular cleaning and maintenance of your kitchen tiles, a simple mixture of baking soda and water is enough to get the job done. Follow these steps to create the solution:
- In a small bowl or container, combine ½ cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of warm water.
- Stir the mixture until the baking soda dissolves completely in the water.
- If necessary, add more water or baking soda to achieve a paste-like consistency for easier application.
This mild solution works well for everyday cleaning and removing light stains from your kitchen tiles without causing damage to their surface.
Mixing Baking Soda with Vinegar
For tougher stains and grime on your kitchen tiles, you might need a stronger solution that combines the cleaning power of both baking soda and vinegar. Here’s how to prepare this potent mixture:
- In a spray bottle or container, mix ½ cup of white vinegar with ½ cup of warm water.
- Add ¼ cup of baking soda to the vinegar-water solution.
- Close the container and shake it well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
The resulting effervescent reaction between baking soda and vinegar creates an effective cleaning agent that can break down stubborn dirt, grease, and grime on your kitchen tiles.
Keep in mind that this stronger solution should be used sparingly since excessive use could potentially damage tile surfaces over time. Always test a small inconspicuous area before applying any homemade cleaner to ensure compatibility with your specific tile material.
In summary, preparing a baking soda solution for cleaning kitchen tiles involves either mixing it with water for everyday maintenance or combining it with vinegar for tackling tougher stains and grime. Choose the appropriate mixture based on your cleaning needs, and ensure that you test it on a small area before applying it to your entire kitchen tile surface.
Mixing Baking Soda with Water
Mixing baking soda with water is a simple yet effective method for cleaning kitchen tiles. To create the solution, you will need:
- 1/2 cup of baking soda
- 1 gallon of warm water
Follow these steps to mix the baking soda and water:
- Measure out the baking soda: Using a measuring cup, measure 1/2 cup of baking soda.
- Add warm water: Fill a bucket with 1 gallon of warm water. The temperature should be comfortable to touch but not too hot, as this can damage some tile surfaces.
- Combine the ingredients: Slowly pour the measured baking soda into the bucket of warm water.
- Stir the mixture: Use a spoon or any other stirring tool to mix the ingredients thoroughly until all the baking soda has dissolved in the water, forming a uniform solution.
- Check consistency: The final solution should be slightly cloudy and have a smooth consistency without any lumps or undissolved particles.
This mixture is now ready for use in cleaning your kitchen floor tiles. It’s important to note that this solution works best on non-porous tiles like ceramic or porcelain, as it may not be as effective on porous materials like natural stone or unglazed terracotta.
For an even more powerful cleaning agent, consider mixing baking soda with vinegar instead of just water (see next subheading).
Mixing Baking Soda with Vinegar
Mixing baking soda with vinegar is an effective method for cleaning kitchen tiles, as it combines the abrasive properties of baking soda with the disinfecting and degreasing power of vinegar. This natural solution is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, making it a popular choice among homeowners.
To create the baking soda and vinegar mixture, follow these simple steps:
- Measure the ingredients: In a small bowl or container, combine equal parts of baking soda and white distilled vinegar. For instance, you can use ½ cup of each ingredient for a standard-sized kitchen.
- Mix the ingredients: Stir the mixture well until it forms a smooth paste. The consistency should resemble that of toothpaste or slightly thicker. If it’s too thick or thin, adjust the proportions accordingly by adding more baking soda or vinegar.
- Allow the mixture to react: As you mix the two ingredients together, you’ll notice some fizzing and bubbling due to the chemical reaction between baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid). This reaction helps break down dirt and grime on your kitchen tiles. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow this reaction to take place.
- Optional – Add essential oils: If desired, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to enhance the cleaning properties and provide a pleasant scent. Popular choices include lemon, lavender, tea tree oil, or eucalyptus oil.
Once your baking soda and vinegar mixture is ready, you can proceed with cleaning your kitchen floor or wall tiles using this powerful homemade solution. Remember to always test a small inconspicuous area first before applying any cleaning product to ensure it does not damage your tile surface or cause discoloration.
In summary, mixing baking soda with vinegar creates an effective natural cleaner that can help remove stubborn stains and dirt from your kitchen tiles without causing harm to the environment or your wallet.
Cleaning Kitchen Floor Tiles with Baking Soda
To effectively clean kitchen floor tiles with baking soda, follow these simple steps:
1. Clearing Debris from the Tile Surface
Before applying the baking soda solution, it is crucial to remove any loose dirt and debris from the tile surface. This can be done by sweeping or vacuuming the floor thoroughly. Make sure to get into corners and along edges where dirt tends to accumulate.
2. Applying the Baking Soda Solution
After clearing the debris, choose either a baking soda and water mixture or a baking soda and vinegar mixture for cleaning your floor tiles. For a baking soda and water mixture, combine ½ cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket. For a baking soda and vinegar mixture, mix equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar until it forms a thick paste.
Dip a mop or cloth into your chosen solution, wringing out excess liquid before applying it to the floor tiles. Work in small sections, making sure to cover all areas evenly.
3. Scrubbing and Removing Stains
For stubborn stains or grout lines that need extra attention, use an old toothbrush or scrub brush dipped in your chosen solution to gently scrub away dirt and grime. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as this may damage the tile surface.
Once you have finished scrubbing, rinse the mop or cloth with clean water and wring out any excess liquid before going over the cleaned area again to remove any remaining residue.
Allow the floor tiles to air dry completely before walking on them or placing furniture back into position.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean your kitchen floor tiles using baking soda as an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals. This method will leave your tiles looking fresh and new without causing damage to their surface or grout lines.
Clearing Debris from the Tile Surface
Before starting the cleaning process, it is essential to clear debris from the tile surface. This step ensures that you are not spreading dirt and grime around while cleaning with the baking soda solution. To effectively remove loose debris from your kitchen floor tiles, follow these steps:
- Sweep or vacuum: Begin by sweeping the area using a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for hard floors. This will help to collect larger particles of dirt, dust, and food crumbs.
- Remove stuck-on debris: For stubborn debris that may be stuck on the tile surface, use a plastic scraper or an old credit card to gently lift and remove it without scratching the tiles.
- Wipe with a damp cloth: After removing larger particles and stuck-on debris, wipe down the entire tile surface with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge to pick up any remaining dust and dirt.
By clearing debris from the tile surface before applying the baking soda solution, you can ensure a more effective cleaning process and avoid causing damage to your kitchen tiles.
Applying the Baking Soda Solution
To apply the baking soda solution to your kitchen floor tiles, start by choosing the appropriate method depending on whether you’ve mixed the baking soda with water or vinegar.
For the baking soda and water mixture, pour a small amount of the solution directly onto the tile surface, ensuring that it covers all areas where dirt and grime have accumulated. You can also use a spray bottle to evenly distribute the solution across your floor tiles.
For the baking soda and vinegar mixture, apply it using a sponge or cloth, as this combination will produce fizzing action which helps lift dirt from tile surfaces. Gently spread the solution over your tiles, paying close attention to any stained or discolored areas.
Allow the baking soda solution to sit on your floor tiles for at least 5-10 minutes. This time allows the cleaning properties of baking soda to penetrate deep into any stains or grime present on your tiles. However, avoid letting it dry completely as dried baking soda can be difficult to remove from tile surfaces.
While waiting for the solution to work its magic, you may want to prepare a bucket of clean water for rinsing and a mop or cloth for wiping away residue after scrubbing.
Scrubbing and Removing Stains
Once you’ve applied the baking soda solution to the kitchen floor tiles, it’s time to focus on scrubbing and removing stains. Baking soda has natural abrasive properties, which make it perfect for tackling stubborn dirt and grime without damaging your tiles.
To begin, use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub the tile surface in a circular motion. This will help lift and loosen dirt particles trapped in the tile’s texture. For more stubborn stains, such as grease or dried food spills, apply additional baking soda mixture directly onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
For areas with heavy grime buildup or darkened grout lines, create a thicker paste by mixing equal parts of baking soda and water. Apply this paste directly onto the problem areas using an old toothbrush or a small cleaning brush. Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing vigorously with your brush. The combination of baking soda’s abrasive properties and its ability to break down dirt will help remove even the most stubborn stains.
When dealing with tougher stains like red wine or coffee spills on light-colored tiles, you can also try mixing baking soda with hydrogen peroxide instead of water. This mixture creates a powerful cleaning agent that can effectively remove these types of stains without bleaching your tiles.
After scrubbing all stained areas thoroughly, rinse your floor tiles with clean water using a mop or a wet cloth. Make sure to remove any residue from the baking soda solution as it may leave a white film if not properly rinsed off.
Finally, dry your kitchen floor tiles using a clean towel or microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and streaks from forming on the surface. Your tiles should now be clean and free from any unsightly stains!
Cleaning Kitchen Wall Tiles with Baking Soda
To effectively clean kitchen wall tiles with baking soda, follow these simple steps:
- Prepping Wall Tiles for Cleaning: Before applying the baking soda mixture, remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the tiles. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe down the tiles with warm water. This will help ensure that the baking soda can work effectively on stains and grime without being hindered by excess dirt.
- Applying the Baking Soda Mixture: Choose either a baking soda and water solution or a baking soda and vinegar solution (as discussed in earlier sections). For wall tiles, it’s best to create a paste-like consistency by using less liquid than you would for floor tiles. This will help prevent dripping and make it easier to apply the mixture to vertical surfaces. To apply the mixture, use a soft cloth, sponge, or an old toothbrush. Dip your chosen tool into the baking soda solution and then gently spread it onto the wall tiles, focusing on stained or grimy areas. Allow the mixture to sit on the tiles for at least 5-10 minutes so that it can break down stains and grime.
- Scrubbing Wall Tiles: After allowing the baking soda mixture to sit on your wall tiles, use your cleaning tool (cloth, sponge, or toothbrush) to scrub away at any stubborn spots or stains. The mild abrasiveness of baking soda will help lift away grime without damaging your tile surfaces.
- Wiping and Polishing Wall Tiles: Once you have finished scrubbing all of your wall tiles, rinse off any remaining baking soda residue with warm water using a clean cloth or sponge. Make sure to thoroughly remove all traces of baking soda to avoid leaving behind any residue that could attract more dirt. Finally, dry your wall tiles with a clean towel or microfiber cloth; this will help prevent streaks and water spots from forming. For added shine, you can use a glass cleaner or a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar to polish the tiles.
By following these steps, you will be able to effectively clean your kitchen wall tiles with baking soda, leaving them looking sparkling and new.
Prepping Wall Tiles for Cleaning
Before starting the cleaning process, it’s essential to properly prepare the kitchen wall tiles. This will ensure that you get the best results and avoid any potential damage to your tiles. Follow these steps for effective prepping:
- Remove any items or appliances from the countertops and surrounding areas that may obstruct your access to the wall tiles. This will make it easier for you to clean all surfaces thoroughly.
- Wipe down the wall tiles with a dry cloth or duster to remove loose dust and dirt particles. This step helps prevent scratching or damaging the tile surface when applying the baking soda mixture later on.
- Inspect the grout lines and tile surfaces for any visible stains, mold, or mildew. Take note of these areas as they may require extra attention during cleaning.
- Protect your countertops and other surfaces by laying down a towel, plastic sheet, or newspaper underneath the area where you’ll be working on the wall tiles. This will catch any drips of water or baking soda solution that might fall during cleaning.
- If there are any heavily soiled areas, consider pre-treating them with a commercial tile cleaner specifically designed for kitchen walls before using baking soda. This can help loosen stubborn stains and make it easier for baking soda to work effectively.
- Finally, gather all necessary tools and materials such as a soft-bristle brush, sponge, microfiber cloth, bucket of warm water, spray bottle (if using), and your prepared baking soda mixture.
By taking time to properly prep your kitchen wall tiles before cleaning them with baking soda, you can ensure an efficient process that yields sparkling clean results without causing unnecessary damage to your tile surfaces.
Applying the Baking Soda Mixture
To effectively apply the baking soda mixture to your kitchen wall tiles, follow these simple steps:
- Dip a clean sponge or cloth into the baking soda solution you prepared earlier (either the water or vinegar mixture). Make sure to wring out any excess liquid to avoid dripping.
- Apply the mixture onto the wall tiles, starting at the top and working your way down. This will prevent dirty water from running over already cleaned areas. Pay special attention to grout lines and tile edges where dirt and grime tend to accumulate.
- For stubborn stains, use an old toothbrush or a small scrub brush dipped in the baking soda solution to gently scrub away grime without scratching the tile surface.
- If you are using a baking soda and vinegar solution, you may notice some fizzing when applied to the tiles. This is normal and indicates that the chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar is helping to dissolve dirt and grime.
- Allow the baking soda mixture to sit on the tiles for 5-10 minutes before wiping it off. This will give it enough time to break down stubborn grease, soap scum, and other residues.
- After allowing the solution to sit, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the baking soda mixture along with any loosened dirt and grime.
- For areas with heavy buildup or hard-to-reach spots, repeat steps 1-6 as necessary until your kitchen wall tiles are sparkling clean.
By following these steps for applying the baking soda mixture, you can efficiently remove stains, dirt, and grime from your kitchen wall tiles while protecting their surface integrity.
Wiping and Polishing Wall Tiles
After applying the baking soda mixture to the kitchen wall tiles and allowing it to sit for a few minutes, it’s time to wipe and polish the tiles. This step is crucial for removing any residue and ensuring a clean, shiny surface.
- Dampen a clean cloth or sponge: Use a clean, lint-free cloth or non-abrasive sponge dampened with water. It’s essential not to use anything too rough or abrasive, as this can scratch the tile surface.
- Wipe off the baking soda mixture: Gently wipe away the baking soda mixture from the tiles using your damp cloth or sponge. Be sure to pay attention to grout lines and corners where dirt and grime might be hiding. Work in small sections, rinsing your cloth or sponge frequently in clean water.
- Rinse with clean water: After wiping off all of the baking soda mixture, use another clean cloth or sponge dampened with water to rinse the area thoroughly. This will help remove any remaining residue and ensure that your tiles are truly spotless.
- Buff and polish: To give your kitchen wall tiles an extra shine, buff them using a soft, dry cloth in circular motions. This will help remove any remaining moisture and leave your tiles looking polished and gleaming.
- Inspect and repeat if necessary: Take a step back and inspect your work for any missed spots or stubborn stains that may require additional attention. If needed, reapply the baking soda mixture to these areas and repeat steps 2-4 until you’re satisfied with the results.
By following these steps for wiping and polishing wall tiles after cleaning them with baking soda, you’ll achieve a sparkling-clean finish that will enhance the overall appearance of your kitchen space. Remember always to use gentle cleaning tools like soft cloths or non-abrasive sponges to protect your tile surfaces from scratches during this process.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Clean Kitchen Tiles
Routine Maintenance and Spot Cleaning
To keep your kitchen tiles in pristine condition, it is essential to perform regular maintenance and spot cleaning. Sweep or vacuum the floor tiles daily to remove dust, dirt, and debris. For wall tiles, use a microfiber cloth or duster to wipe away any accumulated grime. Additionally, address spills and stains as soon as they occur by wiping them up with a damp cloth and applying a baking soda mixture if necessary.
Choosing the Right Tools and Products
Selecting the appropriate tools and cleaning products can make all the difference when it comes to maintaining clean kitchen tiles. Invest in a high-quality mop or sponge for floor tiles and a soft-bristle brush for scrubbing away stubborn stains. Microfiber cloths are ideal for wiping down wall tiles without scratching their surface.
When choosing cleaning products, opt for natural, non-abrasive solutions like baking soda mixtures rather than harsh chemicals that may damage your tiles or leave residue behind. It is also crucial to avoid using abrasive scrubbers like steel wool or scouring pads on your kitchen tiles, as these can scratch the surface and cause permanent damage.
By following these additional tips for maintaining clean kitchen tiles, you will not only ensure that your space remains hygienic but also prolong the life of your tile surfaces. Regular care combined with proper cleaning techniques using baking soda will help keep your kitchen looking fresh and inviting for years to come.
Routine Maintenance and Spot Cleaning
To ensure your kitchen tiles stay clean and in good condition, it’s essential to establish a routine maintenance schedule and address any spills or stains as soon as they occur. By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you’ll prevent dirt buildup and maintain the appearance of your tiles for a longer period.
For routine maintenance, sweep or vacuum the kitchen floor tiles daily to remove loose dirt and debris. Mopping the floor with a damp cloth or mop at least once a week will help eliminate any remaining dust and grime. For wall tiles, wiping them down with a damp cloth every few days should suffice.
In addition to regular cleaning, it’s crucial to tackle spot cleaning immediately when spills or stains appear on the kitchen tiles. The longer a stain sits on the tile surface, the more difficult it becomes to remove. Here are some simple steps for spot cleaning:
- Blot up any excess liquid: If there’s a spill on the tile surface, use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot up as much liquid as possible without rubbing it further into the tile.
- Apply baking soda paste: Mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a thick paste. Apply this paste directly onto the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub gently: Using a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush, scrub the stained area gently in circular motions until the stain is removed.
- Rinse with water: After scrubbing, rinse away any remaining baking soda paste with water and dry the area thoroughly using a clean cloth.
By incorporating routine maintenance and spot cleaning practices into your daily life, you’ll keep your kitchen tiles looking fresh and clean while prolonging their lifespan. Remember that consistency is key – staying on top of these tasks will prevent dirt accumulation over time, ensuring that your kitchen remains an inviting space for both cooking and socializing.
Choosing the Right Tools and Products
Choosing the right tools and products is essential for effectively cleaning your kitchen tiles with baking soda. Using the appropriate items not only ensures a thorough cleaning, but also helps to protect your tiles from damage. Here are some recommendations for selecting the best tools and products:
- Soft-bristle brush or scrubber: Choose a brush or scrubber with soft bristles that won’t scratch your tile surfaces. Avoid using steel wool or other abrasive materials that can damage the tiles.
- Microfiber cloth: Microfiber cloths are ideal for wiping and polishing wall tiles after applying the baking soda mixture. They are gentle on surfaces and highly absorbent, allowing them to effectively remove residues without causing scratches.
- Spray bottle: A spray bottle is useful for evenly distributing the baking soda solution onto wall tiles. This method of application ensures that you don’t use too much liquid, which could cause streaks or water damage.
- Bucket or container: You’ll need a bucket or container to mix your baking soda solution in, whether you’re using water or vinegar as a base.
- Protective gloves: Wearing protective gloves while cleaning can help protect your hands from irritation caused by contact with harsh cleaning agents like vinegar.
- Mild dish soap (optional): If you find that your baking soda solution isn’t cutting through heavy grease buildup on your kitchen tiles, consider adding a few drops of mild dish soap to help break down stubborn grime.
By selecting the right tools and products, you’ll be well-equipped to clean and maintain your kitchen tiles using baking soda effectively. Remember to always test a small inconspicuous area before applying any new cleaning product or technique to ensure it’s safe for use on your specific tile material.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cleaning kitchen tiles with baking soda is an effective and budget-friendly method for maintaining a spotless and hygienic cooking environment. Harnessing the benefits of baking soda as a natural cleaning agent helps to remove stubborn stains, eliminate unpleasant odors, and provide a safer alternative to chemical-based cleaners.
By preparing the baking soda solution in various ways, such as mixing it with water or vinegar, you can customize its potency based on the level of dirtiness present on your kitchen tiles.
The steps outlined in this article for cleaning both floor and wall tiles ensures that every area of your kitchen remains pristine. By following these procedures – clearing debris from the tile surface, applying the baking soda solution, scrubbing away stains, and polishing wall tiles – you can achieve a clean space without damaging your tiles or grout.
Furthermore, adopting routine maintenance practices and using appropriate tools will help to prolong the cleanliness of your kitchen tiles.
Overall, incorporating baking soda into your regular cleaning regimen offers an eco-friendly and versatile solution for keeping your kitchen looking its best. With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can transform dirty kitchen tiles into shining surfaces that enhance the overall appearance and hygiene of your cooking space.