Why You Should Put Baking Soda in Your Washing Machine

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Introduction

A washing machine is the backbone of every household’s laundry routine, working tirelessly to keep clothes fresh and clean. Over time, however, detergent residue, fabric softener, dirt, lint, and even mold can build up inside the drum, seal, and detergent dispenser. This hidden grime can not only leave your clothes smelling less than fresh but also shorten the lifespan of your machine. Cleaning your washing machine regularly is essential to ensure your clothes come out spotless, hygienic, and odor-free.

The Hidden Problem Inside Your Washing Machine

Every load of laundry leaves behind traces of detergent and fabric softener. Over weeks and months, these residues mix with minerals from hard water and body oils from your clothes. The result? A sticky film that traps bacteria and mildew. Eventually, you might start noticing musty smells or grayish streaks on freshly washed clothes.

If ignored, this buildup can cause:

  • Unpleasant odors in your clothes and machine.
  • Reduced cleaning efficiency — your detergent won’t work as well.
  • Bacterial growth, especially in the rubber gasket of front-load washers.
  • Premature wear and tear on your appliance’s internal components.

Luckily, there’s an inexpensive, natural solution sitting right in your kitchen: baking soda.

Why Baking Soda Works

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is one of the most versatile household cleaning agents. It’s non-toxic, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly. When used in your washing machine, it acts as:

  1. A natural deodorizer – It neutralizes odors inside the drum and removes lingering smells from clothes.
  2. A gentle abrasive – Helps loosen and lift dirt, residue, and soap scum without damaging the machine.
  3. A water softener – Reduces mineral buildup from hard water, allowing detergent to work more effectively.
  4. A pH balancer – Stabilizes the acidity of water, helping protect fabrics and maintain machine health.

How to Use Baking Soda in Your Washing Machine

Using baking soda properly is simple and highly effective. Here’s how to do it for both cleaning the machine and improving your laundry loads.

1. To Clean the Washing Machine

Step-by-step:

  1. Make sure the drum is empty.
  2. Add ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drum.
  3. Run the machine on the hottest water setting and the longest cycle.
  4. For extra power, you can also add 1 cup of white vinegar into the detergent tray. The combination breaks down grime and neutralizes odors.
  5. Once the cycle finishes, wipe down the drum, door seal, and detergent drawer with a soft cloth.

Do this once a month to keep your washer fresh and clean.

2. To Boost Laundry Performance

If you want fresher, cleaner clothes, baking soda can be used during your regular laundry routine too.

For each load:

  • Add ½ cup of baking soda directly to the drum before adding clothes.
  • Then, add your regular detergent as usual.

This helps:

  • Neutralize odors from sweat, smoke, or mildew.
  • Brighten whites and soften fabrics naturally.
  • Reduce detergent buildup and keep your washer cleaner with every use.

Bonus Tip: Combine with Vinegar for a Deep Clean

For a deep-cleaning treatment, alternate between baking soda and vinegar:

  • First, run a cycle with baking soda (½ cup).
  • Then, run a second hot cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar.

The two work together to disinfect, dissolve residue, and eliminate stubborn odors — no harsh chemicals needed.

Benefits of Regular Baking Soda Use

  • Extends the life of your washing machine.
  • Prevents costly repairs due to buildup.
  • Keeps your clothes naturally fresh and soft.
  • Eliminates the need for expensive cleaning products.
  • Environmentally safe and gentle on fabrics.

Conclusion

A box of baking soda might seem simple, but it’s one of the most powerful tools you can use to keep your washing machine — and your laundry — in top condition. By adding this inexpensive ingredient to your cleaning routine, you’ll prevent odors, protect your appliance, and ensure every load of laundry comes out fresh, clean, and soft.

So next time you’re doing laundry, don’t forget this secret weapon hiding in your pantry. Your washing machine will thank you — and so will your clothes.

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