Clean your clothes with vinegar and baking soda: Here's how
What's the story
Vinegar and baking soda are two of the most versatile and cost-effective household items. Together, they can be used to clean clothes, offering an eco-friendly alternative to commercial detergents. This combination works wonders in removing stains, neutralizing odors, and brightening fabrics. By using these pantry staples, you can save money while keeping your laundry fresh and clean. Here's how you can use vinegar and baking soda to clean your clothes effectively.
Tip 1
Pre-soak with vinegar
Vinegar makes for an excellent pre-soak solution for dirty clothes. Just mix one cup of white vinegar with a bucket of water and soak the clothes for about 30 minutes. This helps loosen dirt and grime from the fabric fibers. Plus, vinegar also helps neutralize odors, leaving your clothes smelling fresh. After soaking, wash as usual with your regular detergent.
Tip 2
Baking soda stain treatment
Baking soda is another great option for treating stains before washing. For this, make a paste by mixing baking soda with a little water and apply it directly on the stain. Let it sit for about fifteen minutes before washing the garment as usual. The mild abrasive nature of baking soda helps lift stains without damaging the fabric.
Tip 3
Combine vinegar and baking soda in wash
For an extra cleaning boost, add both vinegar and baking soda during the washing cycle. Add half a cup of baking soda to the drum along with your regular detergent, then add half a cup of vinegar into the fabric softener compartment, if your machine has one. This combination helps break down tough stains and deodorizes fabrics effectively.
Tip 4
Use as fabric softener alternative
Vinegar also doubles as an excellent fabric softener alternative. It softens clothes without leaving any residue behind like commercial softeners often do. Just add half a cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle of your washing machine. This will leave your clothes soft without any lingering vinegar smell once they dry naturally or in a dryer, if preferred.