Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, has long been a trusted household staple, praised for its versatility and effectiveness across a range of uses from baking to deodorizing. However, one of its most underrated strengths lies in its ability to improve laundry results and maintain cleaning appliances.

Although many people use it, few fully understand how to maximize its benefits in the laundry room. In fact, using baking soda correctly can make a noticeable difference when it comes to removing odors, freshening clothes, and extending the lifespan of your washing machine. The secret to baking soda’s odor-fighting power lies in its chemical makeup. As a mild alkaline compound, it works by neutralizing acids and bases that cause unpleasant smells.

This reaction is especially helpful with acidic odors, which are common in sweaty gym clothes, pet bedding, and other smelly fabrics. When added to laundry, baking soda helps balance the pH level of the wash water, which not only helps neutralize smells but also allows your detergent to work more efficiently. For best results, about half a cup of baking soda per load is typically recommended. Still, many people make mistakes that keep them from enjoying these full benefits. A common error is using too little baking soda, which leads to ineffective odor removal. Others incorrectly pour baking soda into the detergent compartment, where it tends to clump and loses its impact. The most effective way to use baking soda is by adding it directly to the drum of your washer before you add clothes. For larger or more heavily soiled loads, like pet blankets or athletic gear, you can use up to one cup.

To further boost performance, dissolving baking soda in warm water before adding it can prevent clumping and promote even distribution throughout the wash. If you have a top-loading machine, just sprinkle the baking soda on top of the clothes before starting the cycle. For front-loading washers, dissolve the baking soda in a cup of water and pour it directly into the drum before loading your laundry. Gym clothes are a particular challenge because of sweat and bacteria. For these, consider pre-soaking your clothes in a mix of half a cup of baking soda and one gallon of water for 30 minutes before washing. Then add another half cup into the drum during the wash cycle for maximum freshness. Pet odors are another tough challenge, but baking soda handles them well too. For items like pet beds or blankets, sprinkle baking soda on the surface and let it sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming.

If the items are washable, add half a cup of baking soda to the washing machine along with detergent. For persistent odors, a pre-soak in baking soda solution before washing can make a big difference. Beyond cleaning laundry, baking soda is great for maintaining your washing machine. It acts as a mild abrasive, helping break down detergent buildup and mineral deposits that accumulate over time. To clean your washer, run an empty hot water cycle with one cup of baking soda. Doing this regularly helps keep your machine fresh and running efficiently. Many people also hear about combining baking soda with vinegar for a powerful cleaning duo, and while it’s effective in certain situations, it’s important to use them separately in the laundry. Baking soda is best used during the wash cycle to neutralize odors, while vinegar should be reserved for the rinse cycle to soften fabrics and eliminate detergent residue. Used together at the same time, they can cancel each other out due to their chemical reaction. One of the biggest advantages of using baking soda is that it’s eco-friendly and cost-effective. It’s biodegradable, non-toxic, and a safer alternative to many chemical-laden laundry products. A box of baking soda is inexpensive, lasts a long time, and can help reduce your reliance on synthetic cleaners. Despite the flood of viral hacks online, it’s important to manage expectations. While baking soda can help brighten whites and reduce odors, it’s not a miracle stain remover or a replacement for detergent or bleach. It performs best when used as a complement to your regular laundry products. Experts suggest always using the right amount, pre-soaking smelly loads when needed, and storing your baking soda in a cool, dry place to maintain its effectiveness. With the right approach, baking soda can become an essential part of your laundry routine, improving both cleanliness and freshness with minimal effort and cost.