Baking soda is the key to odor-free clothes and cleaner machines, but most use it wrong. Here’s the right way to use it

For extra-smelly laundry, like activewear or towels, you can use up to 1 cup. Pre-dissolving the baking soda in warm water can also help with even distribution.

4. Best Way to Add Baking Soda to Your Washer

Always add baking soda to the drum, not the detergent compartment. In top-load machines, sprinkle it over the clothes.

For front-load washers, dissolve the baking soda in a cup of water and pour it into the drum before loading the laundry. This ensures full contact with water and enhances cleaning performance.

5. Reviving Smelly Gym Clothes with Baking Soda

Sweaty gym clothes often contain odors from bacteria and sweat. To combat this, pre-soak garments in a solution of 1/2 cup baking soda and a gallon of water for about 30 minutes.

Then wash as usual, adding another 1/2 cup of baking soda to the drum along with your regular detergent. This two-step approach neutralizes tough smells and leaves gym gear smelling fresh.

6. Removing Pet Odors from Fabrics

Pet beds and blankets often trap stubborn odors. To freshen them, sprinkle baking soda generously on the surface and let it sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming.

For washable items, add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the washing cycle with your detergent. For extra-strong smells, consider pre-soaking in a baking soda solution before washing.

7. Cleaning and Maintaining Your Washing Machine

Baking soda also helps care for your washing machine. Its mild abrasiveness helps break down soap scum and mineral residue.

To clean your machine, run an empty cycle using 1 cup of baking soda and hot water. Regular use of baking soda for maintenance keeps your washer efficient and smelling clean.

8. Using Baking Soda with Vinegar—The Right Way

Though often paired in cleaning hacks, baking soda and vinegar should be used separately in laundry. Together, they create a fizzing reaction that quickly neutralizes their cleaning power.

Use baking soda in the wash cycle for deodorizing and vinegar in the rinse cycle to soften clothes and remove residue. This separation ensures both work effectively.