Is It Safe to Use Baking Soda in Laundry? A Professional Guide
Is It Safe to Use Baking Soda in Laundry? A Professional Guide
Baking soda is a powerful yet gentle laundry booster that many people swear by. But is it really safe to use in your washing machine? As a professional laundry company with years of experience, we’re here to break down the benefits, best practices, and potential risks of using baking soda in your laundry routine.
The Benefits of Using Baking Soda in Laundry
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a natural, cost-effective solution to many common laundry problems. Here’s why it works:
Enhances Detergent Performance – Baking soda helps soften water, making your detergent more effective.
Removes Odors Naturally – It neutralizes unpleasant smells from sweat, smoke, and mildew.
Brightens and Whitens Clothes – Works as a mild, natural bleaching agent.
Safe for Most Fabrics – Unlike harsh chemicals, baking soda is gentle on most materials.
Eco-Friendly Alternative – It's a non-toxic, biodegradable option for greener laundry.
How to Use Baking Soda in Laundry
To get the most out of baking soda while ensuring fabric safety, follow these best practices:
1. Boost Your Detergent
Add ½ cup of baking soda directly into the washing machine drum before adding clothes.
Use it alongside your regular detergent for improved cleaning power.
2. Odor Removal
For strong odors (sweat, mildew, pet smells), add 1 cup of baking soda during the wash cycle.
For extreme cases, soak clothes in warm water with ½ cup of baking soda for 30 minutes before washing.
3. Natural Fabric Softener
Instead of chemical fabric softeners, add ½ cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle.
It helps prevent detergent buildup, keeping clothes soft and fresh.
4. Stain Removal with Baking Soda
Make a paste using 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water.
Apply directly to stains (coffee, sweat, oil) and let sit for 15 minutes before washing.
When NOT to Use Baking Soda in Laundry
While baking soda is generally safe, there are some precautions to consider:
Avoid Delicate Fabrics – Baking soda can be too abrasive for silk, wool, cashmere, and lace.
Use Caution with Dark Colors – It may cause fading on dark fabrics over time.
Don’t Mix with Bleach – Baking soda neutralizes bleach, reducing its effectiveness.
Not Ideal for Embellished Clothing – Beads, sequins, and embroidery may be damaged.
Is Baking Soda Safe for Washing Machines?
Yes! Baking soda is safe for both standard and high-efficiency (HE) washers. In fact, it can help clean your machine by removing detergent buildup and neutralizing odors.
Pro Tip: To clean your washing machine, run an empty hot water cycle with 1 cup of baking soda once a month.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Baking Soda in Laundry?
Baking soda is a safe, effective, and eco-friendly addition to your laundry routine when used correctly. It helps keep clothes fresh, bright, and soft while also improving detergent performance. However, always check fabric care labels and avoid overuse on delicate or dark-colored garments.
Need more expert laundry tips? Stay tuned to our blog for professional cleaning advice and solutions!
FAQs About Using Baking Soda in Laundry
Can I use baking soda and vinegar together in laundry?
Yes, but not at the same time. Baking soda is alkaline, while vinegar is acidic. For best results, use baking soda in the wash cycle and vinegar in the rinse cycle.
How often should I use baking soda in my laundry?
You can use it in every wash, but for delicate fabrics, limit use to every 3-4 washes.
Does baking soda remove yellow stains from clothes?
Yes! Make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to yellow stains, let sit for 30 minutes, then wash.
