How to Use Baking Soda in Laundry

Why Baking Soda Works in Laundry

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a mild alkali that neutralizes both acids and bases — which is why it's so effective at eliminating odors (which are often acidic or alkaline compounds). It also softens water, boosts detergent performance, and gently brightens fabric. It's one of the most versatile and inexpensive laundry additives available.

5 Ways to Use Baking Soda in Laundry

1. Boost Detergent Performance

Add half a cup of baking soda to the wash drum along with your regular detergent. Baking soda softens the water, which allows detergent to work more effectively — particularly useful in hard water areas. You may find you need slightly less detergent when using baking soda.

2. Eliminate Odors

Baking soda is one of the best natural odor neutralizers. Add half a cup to the wash cycle for clothes with persistent odors — gym clothes, work clothes, or second-hand items. For very strong odors, pre-soak in a solution of baking soda and water for 30 minutes before washing.

3. Brighten Whites

Add half a cup of baking soda to a white clothes wash to boost brightness. It works well combined with OxiClean White Revive for maximum whitening effect.

4. Soften Fabric

Baking soda softens water, which in turn makes fabric feel softer. It's a good natural alternative to fabric softener for people with sensitive skin, as it leaves no chemical residue on fabric.

5. Remove Deodorant Buildup

Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to deodorant buildup under the arms of shirts. Leave for 30–60 minutes, scrub gently, and wash as normal. The mild abrasive action of baking soda helps break down the buildup.

How Much to Use

Half a cup (about 120ml) per load is the standard amount for most uses. For pre-soaking, dissolve 4 tablespoons in a basin of water. Don't use more than a cup per load — excess baking soda can leave a white residue on dark fabrics.

What to Avoid

• Don't use on wool or silk — the alkalinity can damage protein fibers over time.
• Don't mix baking soda and vinegar in the same wash cycle — they neutralize each other. Use baking soda in the wash and vinegar in the rinse cycle separately.
• Avoid on dark fabrics in large quantities — can leave white residue.

Final Thoughts

Baking soda is one of the most useful and inexpensive laundry additives. Half a cup per load boosts detergent performance, neutralizes odors, and softens fabric naturally. It's safe for most fabrics and works well alongside OxiClean for whitening whites.