If you’ve ever baked anything from scratch, then chances are you’ve got some baking soda, baking powder or both hanging out in your pantry. These ingredients are absolutely kitchen staples, but since we never have to use them in very large amounts, it’s actually really easy for them to sit on the shelf far past their expiration date. Have you ever thought about how long you’ve had your baking powder or soda? Me neither! Let’s not worry too much though— there’s a simple test to check it, coming to us from the kitchn.

The good news is that the expiration date isn’t an absolute rule; like most expiration dates, it’s usually set quite a bit of time before your baking soda or powder actually shouldn’t be used anymore. To see if you’re really in trouble, just:

1. Measure out a half cup of hot water. If you’re testing baking soda, add 1/4 teaspoon of white or apple cider vinegar.
2. Drop a bit of the baking soda or powder into the hot water.
3. See if it bubbles and fizzes. Did it? It’s still good to go!

That’s it! How easy is that? If you’d like more details and background on the process, be sure to check out the kitchn’s original post. How often do you go through your baking soda and baking powder? Did you know about this test before now?