If your freshly washed clothes still smell musty or your washing machine has started to develop an unpleasant odor, there’s a simple and inexpensive solution hiding right in your kitchen cabinet: baking soda. This humble white powder, also known as sodium bicarbonate, does more than make cakes rise — it’s a natural deodorizer, cleaner, and softener that can transform the way you do laundry.
Why Baking Soda Works
Baking soda is mildly alkaline, which means it helps neutralize acidic odors and break down grime and grease. It also regulates the pH level of water, allowing your detergent to perform more effectively. As a result, clothes come out cleaner, fresher, and softer — without the need for harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
How to Use Baking Soda for Odor-Free Clothes
Boost Your Detergent:
Add ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drum before adding your clothes. Then, use your regular amount of detergent. The baking soda enhances the detergent’s cleaning power, tackles body odor, and neutralizes sweat smells.Pre-Soak Smelly Items:
For gym clothes, towels, or socks that have stubborn odors, dissolve ½ cup of baking soda in a bucket of warm water. Soak the clothes for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for strong odors), then wash as usual.Use as a Fabric Softener Substitute:
Instead of commercial softeners, which can leave residue, add ½ cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle. It naturally softens fabrics, leaving them feeling fresh and residue-free.
Cleaning Your Washing Machine with Baking Soda
Your washing machine can accumulate detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, and mildew over time — leading to odors that transfer to your clothes. Regular cleaning with baking soda helps keep your machine running efficiently and smelling fresh.
Here’s how to do it:
