sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) vs sodium carbonate (soda ash)

[PoonTang]

Why go through all the hassle of shipping etc to get soda ash. You only really need it if you need the pH move that it provides, and then you can make it yourself if need be. Baking Soda is available anywhere and is of known quality. I would say stick with what you know, unless you have a good reason to change.

[es355lucille]

Ok, I am learning today. Thanks for all the good info folks!