Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is one of the most versatile and budget-friendly items you can have in your home. For centuries, it’s been used in baking, cleaning, and deodorizing. But one area where it really shines—yet often gets overlooked—is in your laundry routine and appliance maintenance. Many people know it can help with odors, but few actually use it the right way, which means they’re not getting the full benefit from this everyday miracle powder.
Let’s dive into the science behind baking soda’s cleaning power, the common mistakes people make, and how to use it properly for fresh laundry, cleaner machines, and even pet odor removal.
The Science Behind Baking Soda’s Odor Control
Baking soda is a mild alkaline substance that neutralizes both acidic and basic odors by adjusting the pH levels. Most unpleasant smells are acidic in nature, and baking soda reacts with these compounds to neutralize them, effectively removing odors instead of just masking them. When added to laundry, it also helps create an ideal pH level in the wash water, boosting your detergent’s ability to clean and freshen clothes. For best results, use about ½ cup of baking soda per laundry load.
Common Mistakes When Using Baking Soda
Many people underestimate how much baking soda they need. Using just a sprinkle won’t do much. If you really want to neutralize odors and enhance cleaning, stick with the ½ cup rule. Another mistake is adding it to the detergent drawer. That can cause clumping and uneven distribution. Always add it directly into the drum of your washing machine. Lastly, don’t ditch your detergent. Baking soda is a helper, not a replacement. It boosts your detergent’s cleaning power—it doesn’t replace it entirely.
How to Add Baking Soda the Right Way
For optimal results, add ½ cup of baking soda directly into the washing machine drum before loading your clothes. This ensures it mixes well with the water and detergent during the wash cycle. For particularly stinky laundry like workout gear or pet bedding, you can use up to 1 cup. Another helpful tip is to dissolve the baking soda in warm water before pouring it in—this helps prevent clumping and ensures even distribution.
Top vs. Front Loaders: What You Should Know
If you have a top-loading machine, just sprinkle the baking soda over the clothes before starting the cycle. For front-loading machines, dissolve the baking soda in a cup of water and pour it directly into the drum. This method helps avoid clogging the detergent drawer and gets the best results during the wash.
Baking Soda for Smelly Gym Clothes
Sweaty workout clothes can be tough to clean, but baking soda is a game-changer. Try soaking your gym clothes in a mix of ½ cup of baking soda and a gallon of water for 30 minutes before washing. Then, toss them in the washer and add another ½ cup of baking soda with your regular detergent. This two-step method attacks odors from all angles, leaving your clothes smelling fresh and clean.
Removing Pet Odors from Fabrics
Pet smells can cling to fabric, and that’s where baking soda comes in. For items like dog beds or blankets, sprinkle baking soda generously over the surface and let it sit for at least 15 minutes before vacuuming. If the items are washable, toss them in the washing machine with ½ cup of baking soda along with your detergent. For really tough smells, pre-soak them in a baking soda solution before washing.
Keeping Your Washing Machine Fresh
Over time, detergent residue and minerals can build up inside your washing machine, affecting performance. Baking soda can help with that too. To clean your machine, run an empty hot water cycle with 1 cup of baking soda. This helps break down buildup and keeps your washer running smoothly and smelling fresh. Doing this regularly can extend the life of your appliance.
Should You Combine Baking Soda and Vinegar?
Baking soda and vinegar are often promoted as a power duo. When they combine, they fizz due to a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide and water. While this combo is great for certain cleaning tasks, it’s best to use them separately in laundry. Use baking soda in the wash cycle for deodorizing and detergent boosting. Then use vinegar during the rinse cycle to soften fabrics and remove leftover detergent. This keeps both ingredients effective and prevents them from canceling each other out.
Why Baking Soda is an Eco-Friendly Choice
Not only is baking soda cheap, but it’s also non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for your family and the planet. It’s a fantastic alternative to harsh chemical products, especially if you’re aiming to create a more eco-conscious household. One box of baking soda can go a long way, making it a smart and sustainable choice for your cleaning arsenal.
Do Those Viral Baking Soda Hacks Actually Work?
Social media is full of cleaning hacks using baking soda—some legit, some a little exaggerated. While baking soda can help whiten clothes and lift certain stains, it’s not a bleach substitute. It also softens fabrics, but maybe not as effectively as commercial softeners. Think of baking soda as an enhancer, not a miracle product. It works best when paired with the right detergent or stain remover.
Pro Tips to Get the Most from Baking Soda
Want to get the best results every time? Use the right amount—½ cup per load. For extra dirty items, soak them in a baking soda solution first. Store your baking soda in a dry, airtight container to prevent it from clumping. And always pair it with other effective laundry tools for top results.
Whether you’re freshening up towels, eliminating pet odors, or deep-cleaning your washer, baking soda is an inexpensive and powerful addition to your cleaning routine. Use it right, and you’ll wonder how you ever did laundry without it.
