An important step when restocking your pantry is making sure your raising agents, such as baking soda and baking powder, haven’t lost their potency. It’s especially important during fall’s scrumptious baking season, as fresh raising agents will make lighter, fluffier baked goods!

Both baking soda and powder come with best-by dates printed on the boxes, but it’s important to double-check, especially if the package has been opened. Fortunately, this is very easy.

To check your baking powder, simply put a teaspoon into a small bowl of hot water. If it bubbles up, it’s still good. If not, you should toss it and buy a new package.

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To check your baking soda, simply put a teaspoon into a small bowl of white vinegar. If it bubbles up, it’s still good. If not, you should toss it and buy a new package.

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That’s it! Easy, huh? Bake well, everyone!