In the quest to achieve the perfect wash, we often turn to different types of detergents and fabric softeners. But did you know that there are some household products that can be just as effective? Here are five super ingredients you probably have at home that will make your laundry both fresher and better.
1. Bicarbonate
Bicarbonate is a multifunctional substance that is not only used in baking, but also as a reliable helper in the laundry room. It has excellent deodorizing properties, making it a perfect choice for removing bad odors from clothes. In addition, it acts as a natural fabric softener, making your clothes softer.
To use baking soda in your laundry, pour half a cup into the washing machine along with your regular detergent. You can also make a paste of baking soda and water to treat stubborn stains right before washing the garment.
Read more about bicarbonate and all its uses here:
Bicarbonate – 50 ways to use it
2. White wine vinegar
White wine vinegar is another miracle ingredient that can give new life to your laundry. It acts as a natural emollient, which can be an excellent alternative to commercial emollients that often contain chemicals. Its acid helps to neutralize bad odors and can also remove detergent residues that have built up over time on clothes.
To benefit from white wine vinegar in your laundry routine, add a half to a full cup to the rinse cycle of your washing machine. It not only helps to refresh the clothes but also to preserve the luster of the colors.
3. Vinegar
Similar to white wine vinegar, vinegar is a versatile household product that can improve the quality of your laundry. It is effective at removing bad odors and can also help dissolve mineral deposits that can build up in clothes from hard water.
To use vinegar in your laundry, pour half a cup into the rinse cycle of your washing machine. It can also be used as a safe alternative to bleach to brighten white clothes, and is known to be gentle on fabrics.
This is how you refresh your clothes in the wash – without fabric softener
4. Essential oils
Essential oils are known for their therapeutic and aromatic properties, but they can also be a great addition to your laundry routine. Oils such as lavender, eucalyptus or lemon can give your laundry a fresh and pleasant scent.
To benefit from essential oils in your laundry, just add a few drops to the washing machine, either directly or mixed with your detergent or fabric softener. You can also put a few drops on wool dryer balls, which you then dry together with the laundry in the dryer – it gives your clothes a long-lasting fragrance.
5. Lemon juice
Lemon juice is not only a great household cleaner, but also an effective way to freshen up your laundry. Its natural acids act as a gentle bleach, making it an excellent option for brightening and refreshing white clothes. Additionally, lemon juice can help remove stains from clothing.
To use lemon juice in your laundry, add half a cup to the rinse cycle of your washing machine. If you want to treat stains directly, apply some freshly squeezed lemon juice directly to the stain before washing.
READ MORE: 6 common laundry mistakes – that’s why there are holes in your clothes