Yes, you read the title correctly! In this post we are discussing baking soda, and more specifically how you can use it in your laundry, or if you should be using it at all?
It may seem far-fetched but baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) really is safe to use in your laundry. It’s a mild alkaline powder which will slightly raise the PH of water, and is a mild antiseptic that will discourage the growth of bacteria (which is why we also use it in some of our plant based cleaning formulas!). It will not only leave your colours brighter and whites whiter, but as a natural deodorizer and cleanser, it also helps to soften water which means you can get away with using less detergent without comprising the quality of the wash.
So, now that we’ve addressed that it’s safe to use, how do you use it?
So you want sharper colours and brighter whites?
If you want to brighten whites and colours then had a ½ cup of baking soda to your wash, you can throw it in the main drum, or add it alongside how you dispense your regular liquid detergent.
Acid spills refusing to budge?
Acid spills can be anything from urine and vomit to toilet bowl cleaners and drain cleaners. The best way to get rid of these stubborn stains is to quickly rinse the affected area and then sprinkle baking soda on the clothes to neutralise the acid. If the acid is already dried you can still prevent further damage by neutralising the area with baking soda before you place the item into the machine.
I’ve got some very old linens that need a brighten!
Linen is a very delicate material so using baking soda is certainly a good idea! Regular detergents could harm the linen so you can either opt for mixing baking soda in with a delicate wash or simply use it on its own. If there are spots/marks on the linen then make a paste of baking soda and water and rub the area (gently).
Instead of a softener!
Ok, we can’t get enough of our plant based vegan softener, but if you’re someone who doesn’t use softener you can use baking soda. Add ½ cup of baking soda to the cycle, family members with sensitive skin should find that this natural softener won’t affect them.
To clean your machine
How many of you wash your washing machine? It may seem an odd concept as it’s technically washing your clothes and so you’d think it’s washing itself in the process, but it’s actually pretty important to give your machine a little TLC too!
- Make a paste using baking soda and water
- Using a cloth, apply the paste and scrub the inside surfaces of the machine; rinse the machine when finished.