The Key to Whiter Whites and Softer Towels
One simple laundry ingredient can help remove odors, brighten some whites, and improve the feel of towels: washing soda (sodium carbonate). But using too much or adding it incorrectly can leave residue and may not produce better results.
For Whiter Whites
Add about ½ cup of washing soda directly to the washing machine drum along with your regular laundry detergent. Wash the whites using the warmest water that is safe for the fabric.
Washing soda helps increase the alkalinity of the wash water, which can improve the cleaning action of detergent and help remove some greasy or stubborn residues.
For Softer, Fresher Towels
Towels can become stiff when detergent or fabric softener builds up in the fibers. For a routine wash, use the recommended amount of detergent rather than adding extra.
For an occasional deep-cleaning wash, add ½ cup of washing soda to the drum and wash the towels according to their care labels. Avoid overloading the machine so the towels have enough room to rinse properly.
What About Baking Soda?
Baking soda and washing soda are not the same thing. Washing soda is considerably more alkaline and is stronger for laundry cleaning. Baking soda is milder and can help with odors, but it shouldn’t be treated as an identical substitute.
Important Laundry Safety
Never mix washing soda with chlorine bleach, ammonia, or other cleaning chemicals unless the product label specifically says the combination is safe. Always follow the care label on clothing and towels, and use the correct amount rather than assuming more will clean better.
For very delicate fabrics, wool, silk, or specialty materials, check the manufacturer’s instructions before using washing soda.
