When it comes to getting your laundry truly fresh, sometimes detergent alone doesn’t cut it. That’s where baking soda steps in — a humble pantry item that can transform your laundry routine. Whether you’re battling body odour in gym gear, dingy whites, or musty towels, baking soda is your secret weapon for a deeper, more natural clean.

Here’s how to use baking soda in your laundry — and why it works so well.

Why Baking Soda Works in Laundry

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a natural deodoriser and mild alkali, which helps loosen dirt and grime from fabric. It also balances pH levels in the wash, making detergent more effective and helping soften hard water.

5 Easy Ways to Use Baking Soda in Laundry

1. Boost Detergent Power

Add ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drum of your washing machine (not the detergent drawer) alongside your regular detergent. This enhances the cleaning power of your detergent and helps remove tough stains and odours.

2. Remove Odours from Clothes

Have a load of clothes that smells less than fresh? Toss in ½ cup of baking soda with your wash cycle to neutralise odours — ideal for activewear, pet bedding, or damp towels.

3. Whiten and Brighten Laundry

To revive dull whites or faded colours, mix ½ cup of baking soda with your usual detergent. It helps break down mineral build-up and residues that can cause greying or fading over time.

4. Deep Clean Towels and Sheets

For musty towels or bed linens, run a hot wash with ½ cup of baking soda (no detergent), followed by a second rinse with ½ cup of white vinegar. This two-step method removes buildup and restores softness.

5. Soak for Stain Removal

Pre-treat stains by making a paste of baking soda and water, or soak stained clothes in a solution of 4 tablespoons of baking soda per litre of water for 30 minutes before washing. It’s gentle but effective on grease, sweat, and food stains.

Can You Use Baking Soda in Every Load?

Yes — especially in smaller amounts (¼–½ cup). It’s safe for most fabrics and works in both front and top-loading machines. For delicate items or specialty fabrics, always spot test first.

Bonus Tip: Pair with Vinegar — Carefully

While baking soda and vinegar should not be mixed directly in the same wash cycle (they neutralise each other), they can be used separately: baking soda in the wash cycle, and vinegar in the rinse cycle for the ultimate natural clean.

The Bottom Line

If you want cleaner, fresher laundry without the need for harsh chemicals, baking soda is an affordable, effective, and eco-friendly solution. A few scoops can elevate your laundry game and leave your clothes looking and smelling better than ever.

Ready to try it? Grab that box from your pantry — your laundry will thank you.