Hey there, looking to clean your laundry the natural way? Look no further!
Natural cleaning for laundry is not only super effective at getting rid of dirt, stains, and funky odors, but it’s also super eco-friendly.
No need to expose yourself and your family to harsh chemicals, and you’ll be doing your part to save the planet while you’re at it. Plus, your clothes, linens, and other fabrics will smell and feel oh-so-fresh.
So if you’re ready to ditch the chemicals and give natural cleaning a try, check out these tips and products to help you get started.
Let’s get started.
Use Natural Laundry Detergent
Traditional detergents are filled with all sorts of harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Why not ditch the chemicals and opt for a natural alternative instead?
Some options to consider include plant-based detergents, soap nuts, and good ol’ baking soda.
Skip the Fabric Softeners and Dryer Sheets
These guys are loaded with chemicals that can leave a residue on your clothes and linens, making them less breathable and potentially irritating to your skin.
Instead, try using natural alternatives like wool dryer balls or a few drops of essential oils to soften and freshen up your laundry.
Pretreat Stains Naturally
Chemical-based stain removers can be rough on your clothes and the environment. Instead, try using natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar to tackle those pesky stains.
Simply mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for a few hours before laundering as usual. For tougher stains, mix equal parts vinegar and salt to form a paste and go to town.
Use Natural Bleach Alternatives
Traditional bleach is harsh on your health and the environment, and can also damage certain fabrics. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like lemon juice or hydrogen peroxide to brighten and whiten your laundry.
These natural alternatives are effective at removing stains and can be used on a variety of fabrics.
Air Dry Whenever Possible
Tossing your clothes in the dryer can consume a lot of energy and shrink and damage your clothes. Instead, try air-drying your laundry whenever possible.
Hang ’em on a clothesline, use a drying rack, or just hang them up on some hangers. This simple step can save energy and extend the life of your clothes.
Wash in Cold Water
Not only does washing your clothes in cold water save energy, but it also helps extend the life of your clothes.
Most modern detergents work just as well in cold water, so there’s no need to use hot water unless you’re dealing with particularly dirty or heavily soiled items.
Use a Natural Fabric Softener
If you love the softening effect of fabric softeners but want to avoid the chemicals, opt for a natural alternative like white vinegar or baking soda.
Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle or a half cup of baking soda to the wash cycle to soften and freshen your laundry.
Make Your Own Laundry Stain Remover
Instead of using chemical-based stain removers, try making your own natural version using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.
Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water, or mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste, and apply it to the stain.
Read How to Use Baking Soda to Remove Armpit Stains on Shirt for a step-by-step guide on how to use baking soda.
Use Natural Whiteners
Instead of using traditional bleach, which can be harmful to your health and the environment, consider using natural alternatives to whiten your laundry.
Sunlight is a natural bleaching agent, so hang your whites outside on a sunny day to brighten them up. You can also add a few drops of lemon juice to the rinse cycle to naturally whiten and freshen your laundry.
Use Natural Boosters
For extra cleaning power, consider adding natural boosters to your laundry routine. Borax and washing soda are both natural boosters that can help to remove stains and brighten whites.
Simply add a half cup of borax or washing soda to your wash cycle for extra cleaning power.
Don’t Forget the Power of Vinegar
White vinegar is a natural fabric softener, deodorizer, and stain remover. Add a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle to soften clothes, eliminate odors, and remove stains.
Go for Green Laundry Baskets
Instead of using a plastic laundry basket that will end up in a landfill, opt for a natural alternative like a wicker or bamboo basket.
These baskets are eco-friendly, stylish, and durable. Plus, they’ll add a natural touch to your laundry room.
Conclusion:
Well there you have it, folks – all of the tips and tricks you need to switch to natural cleaning for your laundry.
Not only will these natural methods help you avoid harsh chemicals and protect the environment, but they’ll also leave your clothes and linens smelling as fresh as a daisy (or a lemon, or a bowl of vinegar, depending on which method you choose).
And let’s be real, who doesn’t love the feeling of tossing on a crisp, clean shirt that’s free of chemicals and smells like a sunny day? So go ahead and give these natural cleaning methods a try – your clothes (and the planet) will thank you.
Happy laundering!
-Baking Soda Guy
Photo by Skitterphoto from Pexels
