By Claire Gillespie | Updated Mar 24, 2022
Pure water has a neutral pH of 7. To raise its pH, you must add an alkaline substance. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where values above 7 are alkaline and below 7 are acidic.
While water softeners can help adjust pH by exchanging ions, the most accessible method for most households is to use an alkaline compound such as baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), which has a pH of approximately 9 in aqueous solution.
Pour the water you wish to adjust into a 1‑cup measuring cup. If you have a pH meter or test strips, confirm that the water is near neutral (pH 7). Avoid using litmus paper, as it only indicates acidity or alkalinity, not the exact pH value.
Stir in one teaspoon of baking soda. Whisk or stir until the powder is fully dissolved. The addition of this alkaline substance will incrementally raise the water’s pH.
Use your pH meter or strips to measure the new pH level. If a higher pH is desired, add baking soda in ¼‑to‑½‑teaspoon increments, testing after each addition until the target pH is achieved.
For aquarium use: add 1 teaspoon of baking soda per 5 gallons of water. Dissolve the baking soda in a small amount of water, then slowly pour the mixture into the tank after removing the fish. Stir gently and re‑measure.
Other alkaline additives that can raise water pH include lye, milk of magnesia, and ammonia, but they should be handled with caution and appropriate safety gear.
Always read the instructions on your pH meter or test strips to ensure proper use. The required immersion time may vary by brand.
