Baking soda is one of the most widely-recognized products you’ll find in almost any pantry or cupboard. That little orange box holds a lot more than just an ingredient for chocolate chip cookies! Among many cleaning applications, baking soda does wonders in the laundry room. Baking soda can be safely used in both standard and high-efficiency washers. Check out how to integrate baking soda into your laundry room for a safe, non-toxic and inexpensive alternative!
Reduce and Remove Laundry Odor
The odors found on our linens and clothing are caused by different types of bacteria. These bacteria are removed when the detergent’s molecules break them up and flush them away from the clothing. Less expensive detergents generally don’t have strong enough enzymes to remove all the bacteria, so baking soda is the solution for a great boost of bacteria-fighting power! Simply add ½ cup of baking soda to each laundry load to make your laundry detergent work more efficiently.
Boost Bleach Performance
Bleach is often used to remove odors and stains from our laundry. However, if the water is too acidic, bleach cannot do its job. Bleach needs a more neutral environment. Baking soda can boost the effectiveness of bleach in both its stain and odor fighting power; in some cases, it can replace the use of bleach. Bleach is often criticized for its impact on the environment; therefore, using baking soda relieves some of that impact through a lesser need for bleach.
Naturally Soften Fabrics
Baking soda is great for neutralizing the pH of the water in your washing machine. It does this by making sure the rinse water isn’t too acidic. Adding baking soda to your laundry will result in a balance in the mineral deposits within the water. These mineral deposits will stay off your clothes and prevent clothes from having a stiff feel.
Clean Irons
Baking soda is a safe and mild abrasive. The face plates of irons are notorious for building up starch and scorch marks. To remove, simply make a paste of water and baking soda and rub the paste over the face of the cool iron. Gently wipe the build up away and cleanse with white vinegar.
Control Water Suds
If you accidentally use standard laundry detergent on a high-efficiency washing machine, the result is SUDS! Lots of suds. If you make this honest mistake, simply sprinkle baking soda on the suds and the particles will break down the bubbles. This makes clean-up much easier!
As you can see, baking soda is a wonderful addition to your laundry-room arsenal. There are so many ways to use baking soda in your entire home. Give it a try and you’ll be amazed at the results!