What To Know
- The amount of baking soda required depends on the size of your washing machine, the severity of the odor, and the type of fabric you’re washing.
- Increase the amount of baking soda to 1 cup for a standard-sized machine and 1 1/2 cups for a large-sized machine.
- Baking soda is safe for most fabrics, but it’s always a good idea to test it on a small area first, especially for delicate fabrics like silk or wool.
Unpleasant odors in laundry can be a frustrating issue, but there’s a simple and effective solution: baking soda. This inexpensive and versatile household item not only neutralizes odors but also brightens fabrics and softens water. Determining the optimal amount of baking soda to use is crucial for achieving the desired results without damaging your clothes or appliances.
Determining the Ideal Amount
The amount of baking soda required depends on the size of your washing machine, the severity of the odor, and the type of fabric you’re washing. As a general guideline, follow these recommendations:
- Standard-sized washing machine (capacity up to 10 lbs): Use 1/2 cup of baking soda.
- Large-sized washing machine (capacity over 10 lbs): Use 1 cup of baking soda.
- For heavily scented or smelly clothes: Increase the amount of baking soda to 1 cup for a standard-sized machine and 1 1/2 cups for a large-sized machine.
- For delicate fabrics: Use 1/4 cup of baking soda to avoid potential damage.
How to Use Baking Soda in Laundry
1. Add baking soda to the washing machine: Sprinkle the recommended amount of baking soda directly into the drum of the washing machine before adding clothes.
2. Run a regular wash cycle: Select the appropriate wash cycle for the type of fabric you’re washing.
3. Check for odor removal: Once the cycle is complete, inspect the clothes for any remaining odor. If the odor persists, repeat the process with a slightly increased amount of baking soda.
Benefits of Using Baking Soda in Laundry
- Odor elimination: Baking soda neutralizes acids and absorbs odors, leaving your clothes smelling fresh and clean.
- Fabric brightening: Baking soda gently lifts stains and brightens fabrics, restoring their original vibrancy.
- Water softening: Baking soda softens hard water, improving the effectiveness of detergents and reducing the risk of mineral buildup on clothes.
- Residue removal: Baking soda helps remove detergent residue from clothes, preventing stiffness and irritation.
- Deodorizing the washing machine: Regular use of baking soda in laundry can help deodorize your washing machine and prevent unpleasant odors from developing.
Precautions
- Avoid using baking soda with chlorine bleach: Chlorine bleach can react with baking soda, creating toxic fumes.
- Do not use baking soda on wool or silk fabrics: These delicate fabrics can be damaged by baking soda.
- Test baking soda on a small area first: If you’re unsure about the effect of baking soda on a particular fabric, test it on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire garment.
Alternative Odor Removal Methods
- White vinegar: Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to neutralize odors and soften fabrics.
- Lemon juice: Squeeze the juice of 1-2 lemons into the washing machine along with your detergent.
- Essential oils: Add a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree, to the washing machine for a fresh and fragrant scent.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I use baking soda in laundry?
- Use baking soda in laundry as needed to eliminate odors. For regular maintenance, add 1/2 cup of baking soda to every wash cycle.
2. Can I use baking soda in the dryer?
- No, do not put baking soda in the dryer. It can leave a powdery residue on clothes and potentially damage the dryer.
3. Is baking soda safe for all types of fabrics?
- Baking soda is safe for most fabrics, but it’s always a good idea to test it on a small area first, especially for delicate fabrics like silk or wool.
