Baking soda is a versatile household product with many uses, including in the laundry room. Here is an in-depth look at how to effectively use baking soda for cleaner, fresher smelling clothes and linens.
Why Use Baking Soda in Laundry
Baking soda has mild alkaline properties that allow it to act as a gentle cleaner and deodorizer. When added to the wash or rinse cycle, baking soda can help:
- Brighten fabrics by helping to remove stains and lift dirt from fabric fibers. The abrasiveness of baking soda loosens debris without being harsh like bleach.
- Neutralize odors by absorbing and removing smelly compounds from clothes and fabrics. Baking soda helps get rid of odors rather than just masking them.
- Soften fabrics by reducing stiffness. The alkaline properties of baking soda allow it to break down detergent and fabric residues that can make clothes stiff and scratchy.
- Clean the washing machine by removing built up dirt, grime, and detergent scum. Over time, residue accumulates and can lead to mold and mildew growth.
When to Use Baking Soda
Baking soda can be added at two main points during the wash cycle:
With Detergent
Adding a 1/2 cup of baking soda along with detergent helps boost cleaning power and prevents residues from accumulating on clothes and the machine. The combination of detergent and baking soda provides a one-two punch to lift dirt and stains while also preventing build up.
In the Rinse
Adding 1/2 cup baking soda to the rinse water helps remove any traces of detergent left behind after washing. This prevents soap scum build up on clothes and softens fabrics by removing detergent residues. The baking soda rinse also helps neutralize odors.
How Much Baking Soda to Use
The standard amount of baking soda to use per average load of laundry is 1/2 cup. Adjust this as needed:
- For a large or heavily soiled load, use 3/4 to 1 cup baking soda.
- For a smaller lightly soiled load, use 1/4 to 1/3 cup baking soda.
- For extra odor removal, you can also add 1/4 cup baking soda to the detergent dispenser compartment along with your usual detergent amount.
When Not to Use Baking Soda
Avoid using baking soda when washing:
- Silk, wool, or other delicate fabrics that can be damaged by harsh alkaline cleaners.
- Brightly colored loads, as the abrasiveness can cause fading over time.
- Non-HE machines, as too many suds may accumulate without a rinse cycle.
Step-By-Step Guide
Follow these steps for successfully using baking soda in laundry:
1. Check Clothing Labels
Make sure the load contains only machine washable fabrics. Baking soda may damage delicates like silk, wool, spandex, rayon, etc.
2. Pretreat Stains
Use a stain remover or dab stains with a baking soda paste prior to washing for best results. The abrasiveness of baking soda works best on pretreated stains.
3. Add Baking Soda to Wash Cycle
For a regular load, add 1/2 cup baking soda along with the usual amount of laundry detergent to the wash basin or detergent dispenser. For odors, also add 1/4 cup to the dispenser.
4. Allow Baking Soda to Dissolve
Make sure the baking soda dissolves fully in the water for optimal effectiveness. Let the wash basin fill partially with water first before adding baking soda.
5. Wash as Usual
Wash the clothes on the normal/regular setting unless dealing with heavily soiled items. Wash soiled loads on a heavy duty cycle.
6. Check Rinse Cycle Setting
Make sure the rinse cycle is set to maximum/extended time to remove all traces of detergent and baking soda.
7. Add Baking Soda to Rinse
For softening and brightening, add 1/2 cup baking soda to the empty drum at the start of the rinse cycle.
8. Remove Promptly After Cycle Ends
Once washed, promptly remove clothes from the washer to prevent odors from developing if left wet.
9. Admire the Results!
Freshly washed clothes will now be cleaner, brighter, odor-free, and extra soft thanks to the power of baking soda!
Troubleshooting Issues
If adding baking soda to the wash leaves clothes looking dingy or with baking soda residues, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Use less baking soda – reduce to 1/4 cup per load.
- Make sure baking soda dissolved fully before washing.
- Add vinegar to the rinse cycle to further remove baking soda.
- Increase rinse cycle time to fully flush out baking soda.
- Wash synthetic fibers on a gentle cycle to avoid abrasion damages.
- Never pour baking soda directly on clothes, always add to water first.
Alternative Ways to Use Baking Soda
If adding baking soda to the wash cycle doesn’t produce desired results, try these other laundry uses instead:
- Soak smelly clothes in a baking soda bath before washing.
- Use it to pretreat tough stains like tomato sauce, wine, grease, etc.
- Make a baking soda paste with water to scrub stains on collars and cuffs.
- Sprinkle baking soda in gym bags, lockers, and hampers to deodorize.
- Maintain front load washing machines by cleaning with baking soda monthly.
The Takeaway
Baking soda is a safe, non-toxic way to get laundry cleaner and fresher smelling without using harsh chemicals. Its abrasive alkaline properties cut through dirt, odors, product build up, and residues. For optimal results, make sure to pre-treat stains, add the proper amount to the wash or rinse cycles, and thoroughly dissolve baking soda before washing. With some trial and error, baking soda can become a go-to laundry booster and cleaning agent for whiter whites, brighter brights, and fresher smelling fabrics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does baking soda work on laundry?
The mild abrasive and alkaline properties of baking soda help remove stains, lift dirt, absorb odors, soften fabrics by removing detergent residue, and clean the washing machine.
What cycle should I add baking soda?
For everyday use, add baking soda along with detergent in the wash cycle. For extra softening and brightening, also add baking soda to the rinse cycle.
Can I use baking soda alone as detergent?
No, baking soda does not contain surfactants so it does not work as a standalone detergent. It works best as an enhancing additive to your usual detergent.
How much baking soda should I use per load?
A good rule of thumb is 1/2 cup baking soda for an average load. For larger or heavily soiled loads, use 3/4 to 1 cup. For smaller or lightly soiled loads, use 1/4 to 1/3 cup.
Should I use baking soda with every load?
You can, but for delicate and brightly colored fabrics, occasional use is best to avoid damage from repeated abrasion and alkalinity.
Conclusion
Baking soda is a laundry room superstar that can help boost the performance of your detergent without adding harsh chemicals. With some trial and error to find the right amount, adding baking soda to the wash and/or rinse cycles will result in cleaner, brighter, odor-free, and softer laundry. Baking soda provides an effective, non-toxic cleaning boost that anyone can take advantage of for only pennies per load.