ADVERTISEMENT
How To Use Vinegar Correctly in Your Laundry
While vinegar can be incredibly effective, it’s important to use it the right way to get the best results. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of this household wonder:
1. Use White Vinegar (Not Apple Cider Vinegar!)
Always use white distilled vinegar in your laundry. Apple cider vinegar has a stronger smell and might leave a residue on your clothes. White vinegar is colorless, odorless, and works best to clean and freshen your laundry.
2. Add Vinegar to the Fabric Softener Compartment
Many people simply pour vinegar directly into the wash, but the best way to use it is to pour it into the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine. This ensures it gets dispensed at the right time during the rinse cycle, when it can effectively soften fabrics and help eliminate detergent residue.
3. For Whitening and Brightening Clothes
To keep whites looking fresh and bright, add 1 cup of vinegar directly to the wash cycle along with your regular laundry detergent. You can also add half a cup of vinegar to the pre-wash cycle if your machine has one, to tackle stains and dirt before your regular cycle begins.
- Tip for stubborn stains: Soak heavily stained items in a solution of 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water before washing to help lift stains naturally.
4. For Softer Towels
To soften towels and prevent them from becoming stiff or scratchy, pour 1 cup of vinegar into the fabric softener dispenser. This helps remove any detergent or fabric softener buildup that can make towels feel rough. You’ll be left with towels that are softer, fluffier, and more absorbent.
5. Remove Odors and Freshen Up Your Laundry
If your clothes have a lingering odor – whether it’s from sweat, smoke, or mildew – add 1 cup of vinegar to the wash cycle. The vinegar will help neutralize unpleasant smells, leaving your laundry smelling fresh without masking it with artificial fragrances.
6. Use Vinegar for Clean Machine Maintenance
Vinegar can also be used to clean your washing machine and keep it running efficiently. Once a month, run an empty load with 2 cups of vinegar to help remove soap scum, mold, and mineral deposits from inside the machine.
What Not to Do With Vinegar in Laundry
While vinegar is a powerful laundry aid, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid any mishaps:
- Don’t Mix Vinegar with Bleach: Never combine vinegar and bleach. When mixed, these substances release harmful chlorine gas, which can be dangerous to inhale.
- Avoid Using Vinegar with Delicate Fabrics: While vinegar is generally safe for most fabrics, avoid using it on delicate items like silk, rayon, or wool. Always check the care label first.
- Don’t Overuse Vinegar: While vinegar is great for brightening whites and softening towels, using too much can cause a lingering vinegar smell. Stick to the recommended amount (usually around 1 cup per load) to avoid any odor issues.
Final Thoughts:
Vinegar is a laundry miracle worker when used correctly, and it can save you money while making your clothes feel fresher and your towels softer. Whether you’re looking to brighten whites, soften fabrics, or simply eliminate stubborn odors, vinegar is a natural, effective alternative to traditional laundry products.
Next time you’re doing laundry, reach for the white vinegar and start using it the right way to see the difference for yourself. You’ll love the results – and your clothes will thank you!
ADVERTISEMENT
