5 Ways to Use Baking Soda in Garment Care

1. Get rid of unpleasant odors

Clothes and bedding get odor over time because bacteria from our skin build up on them. The enzymes in the laundry detergent break down these bacteria. But inexpensive detergents don't always do the job well.

To enhance their effectiveness, add half a glass of baking soda to one load of laundry when washing. And not in a container for powder, but in a drum - before putting things into it.

If you need to get rid of stubborn odors like underarm sweat or tobacco smoke, soak your clothes with baking soda before washing. Add a glass of baking soda to a bowl of warm water and leave things overnight. Then wash them as usual.

If you need to freshen up clothes made from non-washable fabric, fold them into something that can be closed with a lid and place the unopened package of baking soda in the same place. At least a day of such a neighborhood - and the soda will absorb all the smells.

2. Enhance the effect of chlorine bleach

Bleach will need help to work effectively in water with high levels of acidity or alkalinity. This is where baking soda comes in handy as it balances the pH. Add it with bleach in equal proportions before washing: soda - into the drum, bleach - into the compartment or powder container specially designated for it.

As a result, you need less chlorine solution, which will save you money and reduce environmental impact.

3. Soften the fabric

With regular washing in hard water, the fabric becomes coarser, because particles of dissolved metal salts settle on it. Soda will help deal with this. Just add half a glass while rinsing to get the effect.

In addition, unlike store-bought fabric softeners, which contain fragrances and corrosive substances, people with sensitive skin and allergies can use baking soda for washing. And also it is suitable for children's clothing.

4. Make things brighter

Sodium bicarbonate will gently whiten light-colored items, and restore brightness to colored items. To do this, pour half a glass of baking soda into the drum and wash with your usual powder.

It is especially suitable for cotton fabrics, including thinned bedding. Unlike store-bought bleach or bleach, baking soda won't hurt these delicate items.

5. Remove stains

To deal with grease and food stains, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a little water for a thick paste. Apply it on the stain and leave it on for 15 minutes. If the fabric is thick, you can rub the dirty area with a toothbrush. Then rinse off the baking soda with warm water under the tap and wash as usual.