I Had No Idea: The Right Way to Use Baking Soda for Laundry and Cleaning

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a humble yet powerful household staple. While many people know it as a baking ingredient or a fridge deodorizer, few realize just how transformative it can be in the laundry room. From neutralizing odors to extending the life of your washing machine, baking soda is a game-changer—when used correctly.

1. Why Baking Soda Works So Well

Baking soda is a mild alkaline compound that reacts with acids and bases, neutralizing them and eliminating odors. In laundry, it balances the pH of water, helping detergents work more effectively and removing acidic smells from sweat, food, or mildew. This chemical reaction is what makes it so effective at freshening clothes and cleaning appliances.

Bonus Tip: Baking soda also softens water, which can reduce mineral buildup in your machine and improve detergent performance.

2. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people use too little baking soda—just a sprinkle won’t cut it. For a standard load, use at least 1/2 cup. Another mistake is putting it in the detergent drawer, where it can clump and reduce effectiveness. Always add it directly to the drum.

Extra Insight: Don’t rely on baking soda alone. It enhances detergent but doesn’t replace it. Think of it as a powerful sidekick, not the main hero.

3. How to Use It Properly

• Standard loads: Add 1/2 cup directly into the drum before loading clothes.

• Heavy odors (gym clothes, pet bedding): Use up to 1 cup.

• Pre-dissolve: Mix with warm water first to prevent clumping and ensure even distribution.

Pro Tip: For front-loading machines, dissolve baking soda in a cup of water and pour it into the drum before adding clothes.

4. Freshening Gym Clothes

Sweaty gym clothes are notorious for holding onto odors. Pre-soak them in a solution of 1/2 cup baking soda and 1 gallon of water for 30 minutes. Then wash with your usual detergent and another 1/2 cup of baking soda.

Added Bonus: This method also helps preserve the elasticity of activewear by reducing detergent buildup.

5. Tackling Pet Odors

Pet beds and blankets can trap strong smells. Sprinkle baking soda over the fabric, let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum. For washable items, add 1/2 cup to the wash cycle.

Extra Tip: For stubborn smells, pre-soak in a baking soda solution before washing.

6. Cleaning Your Washing Machine

Over time, detergent and mineral deposits build up inside your washer. Run an empty hot cycle with 1 cup of baking soda once a month to clean and deodorize the machine.

Maintenance Hack: Follow up with a vinegar rinse to remove any lingering residue and keep your washer fresh.

7. Baking Soda + Vinegar: A Dynamic Duo

Used together, baking soda and vinegar create a fizzing reaction that lifts grime. But don’t mix them at the same time in laundry—they cancel each other out. Use baking soda in the wash cycle and vinegar in the rinse cycle for best results.

Did You Know? Vinegar also acts as a natural fabric softener and helps prevent static cling.

8. Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly

Baking soda is biodegradable, non-toxic, and safe for sensitive skin. It’s a great alternative to chemical-laden products and is incredibly affordable—one box can last for dozens of loads.

Sustainability Tip: Switching to baking soda can reduce your household’s chemical footprint and save money over time.

9. Viral Hacks: Fact or Fiction?

From whitening whites to removing stains, baking soda is featured in countless online hacks. While it’s great for odor control and softening, it’s not a miracle cure. It won’t replace bleach or heavy-duty stain removers but works well as a supplement.

Reality Check: Use it to boost your routine—not as a one-size-fits-all solution.

10. Expert Tips for Best Results

• Store baking soda in a dry, airtight container to prevent clumping.

• Pre-soak heavily soiled items for deeper cleaning.

• Combine with essential oils (like lavender or lemon) for a natural fragrance boost.

Final Thought: With consistent use, baking soda can transform your laundry routine, making clothes fresher, your machine cleaner, and your home more eco-friendly.