We’re all about clever cleaning hacks, especially when it comes to laundry. Anything that simplifies this often tedious chore is a win.
While doing laundry, it’s easy to rely on the usual detergent and softener routine. This approach works, but it may not yield the best outcomes. Stubborn stains, unwanted odors, and lackluster colors can make laundry feel more challenging than it has to be.
To help, we reached out to cleaning and laundry specialists to uncover the secret ingredients they trust for achieving an exceptional clean, along with tips for using them effectively.
Essential Laundry Ingredients Loved by Experts
With countless cleaning tips and laundry hacks available online, distinguishing the truly effective ones from mere time-wasters can be tough. To skip the trial-and-error phase, consider these expert-recommended additives.
1. Enzyme Cleaners for Organic Stains
Wondering what an enzyme cleaner is? You’re not alone. Products labeled 'biological' can seem daunting.
Yet, this laundry addition is fantastic for tackling organic stains like food, blood, and sweat, says Matt O’Connor, co-founder and CEO. He advises including this in your stain removal setup.
“Choose cleaners with protease enzymes and treat stains by soaking items in a mix of enzyme cleaner and water (follow the manufacturer’s instructions) for at least an hour before your regular wash,” Matt recommends.
2. Oxygen Bleach for Brighter Whites
Many are familiar with traditional bleach, but have you tried oxygen bleach?
This powdered formula, such as MollySuds Oxygen Whitener, contains sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide, designed to restore dingy whites and enhance colors without the harshness of chlorine bleach.
Prerna Jain, operations manager, recommends using one scoop per load for optimal results. Soaking white fabrics in oxygen bleach prior to washing can also help remove stains. Mix one scoop in warm water and let items soak for at least an hour before rinsing and washing.
3. TAED for Enhanced Brightening
This ingredient might be less known, but Marilee Nelson, a laundry expert, swears by it for boosting brightness.
Tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED) acts as a bleach activator, amplifying the stain-fighting and deodorizing properties of sodium percarbonate. It facilitates effective low-temperature cleaning while protecting fabric integrity.
Combining TAED with sodium percarbonate enhances its effectiveness, making it a valuable addition to your laundry routine.
4. White Vinegar for Fabric Softening
While not exactly a secret, white vinegar is a laundry powerhouse, according to Matt O’Connor.
This versatile pantry staple eliminates odors, softens fabrics, and brightens colors. Simply add half a cup during the rinse cycle. It's especially effective for refreshing towels and gym clothes.
5. Borax to Boost Detergent Performance
Using detergent alone is fine, but for extra cleaning power, consider adding borax.
Matt explains that borax is a natural mineral that enhances detergent effectiveness, whitens, and deodorizes. Use half a cup per load. It also combats hard water issues, helping your detergent foam up and clean your clothes thoroughly.
6. Baking Soda for Odor Elimination
Baking soda is another effective laundry ingredient. It boosts detergent performance and addresses tough stains, while also improving scents, says Prerna Jain. Add half a cup during the wash cycle.
Baking soda can also be used to create a DIY washing machine cleaner to maintain appliance freshness between washes.
7. Castile Soap for Stain Treatment
While using dish soap for laundry isn’t common, Castile soap can be helpful for hand-washing clothes. It’s a natural option that you dilute with water.
For stain removal, dampen the area with warm water, apply a small amount of Castile soap, and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing and washing.
8. Essential Oils for a Fresh Scent
If you enjoy personalizing the fragrance of your laundry, consider adding essential oils. You can make laundry detergent with them or incorporate them into wool dryer balls for a natural scent.
A small bottle lasts a long time since only 10-20 drops are needed to create a cleaning solution when mixed with water and a drop of dish soap.
Before using any new laundry additives, it’s wise to test them on inconspicuous areas to prevent irreversible laundry mishaps.
