There is something delightfully simple and yet fantastic about the way clothes smell when they come out of the wash. It’s a freshness that can be hard to describe and often doesn’t last through the drying process.
That’s why fabric softeners and conditioners were invented, to lock the freshness in for hours or even days.
The problem is that these substances are generally full of harsh chemicals. The chemicals ensure the freshness is locked into the material. But unfortunately, the chemicals can also have a harmful effect on our health.
Once you realize the potential harmful effects, you’ll appreciate why you need to use dedicated products for the best possible fabric care.
You can also try one of these 3 ways of freshening your laundry:
- Baking Soda
Take a look in your kitchen cupboard and you’ll almost certainly find some baking soda. It’s one of those substances that have hundreds of potential uses around the home.
In fact, adding ½ cup to your washing will help to ensure the pH of your water remains neutral. It will also remove smells from your clothes and make them appear brighter.
To get the best possible results it’s worth soaking your load in ½ cup of baking soda and water before you start the machine going.
- Dry It Slowly
You’ll get fresh-smelling clothes if they’re allowed to dry slowly and in the fresh air. In addition, you’ll be saving electricity.
Simply rig up a washing line in your garden and peg the clothes out as soon as they’ve finished washing. Of course, this only works on a dry day but it will leave your clothes soft and extremely fresh.
There is little that can match or beat clothes dried in the fresh air.
Just make sure your items are completely dry before putting them away. Any moisture in your clothes will make them smell musty once stored, it takes much less time than you think.
- Rotate It
You probably have your favorite items of clothing and towels/bedding. This means that the same garments are often worn and used over and over again. Unfortunately, this also means that the ones that aren’t used will sit at the bottom of the pile and gradually affect the freshness of all the items in your wardrobe.
Rotate items to ensure they are all used regularly, or get rid of them if you don’t want to use, or wear them.
It is worth noting that white vinegar is another effective way of softening your clothes. However, it has a distinctive smell. If you add it to your clothes at the wrong time, that’s all you’ll smell after they’re washed.
It must only be added during the rinse cycle and ¼ cup should be enough. Vinegar also works best with line drying to ensure they are no offensive smells.
Don’t forget, using harsh chemicals isn’t just bad for the environment, it’s also bad for your health. If you’re still using traditional detergents and fabric conditioners, it’s time you changed to something more environmentally and people-friendly.
