Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

American consumer goods company founded in 1846, known for household cleaning products, personal care items, and the Arm & Hammer brand, headquartered in Ewing, New Jersey.

Church & Dwight was founded in 1846 by Austin Church and John Dwight as a partnership to manufacture sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda. Austin Church was a physician who recognized the commercial potential of baking soda for cooking and cleaning. John Dwight was a businessman who provided capital and business expertise. The partners developed a process to produce baking soda from sodium carbonate and carbon dioxide.

The company grew through the 19th century, expanding its production capacity and distribution network. Church & Dwight baking soda became a household staple for cooking, cleaning, and personal care. The company introduced the Arm & Hammer brand in 1867, featuring a hammer and arm symbolizing strength and reliability. The brand became synonymous with baking soda quality.

In the 20th century, Church & Dwight expanded its product portfolio beyond baking soda. The company introduced baking soda-based laundry detergents, household cleaners, and personal care products. Church & Dwight acquired other consumer goods companies to expand its brand portfolio and market presence. Notable acquisitions include the purchase of Trojan condoms in 2001 and Waterpik oral care products in 2006.

Church & Dwight went public in 1969, raising capital for expansion. The company has continued to grow through both organic growth and acquisitions. Recent strategic direction has focused on product innovation in household cleaning and personal care categories. Church & Dwight has also expanded its international presence, particularly in Latin America and Asia.