How Much Water Does a Washing Machine Use?

Laundry soda, also known as washing soda, is a powerful cleaning agent that’s often used as an alternative to traditional laundry detergents. Made from sodium carbonate, a naturally occurring mineral, laundry soda is an eco-friendly choice that can help tackle tough stains, neutralise odours, and soften water, all without harsh chemicals. It’s an ideal solution for anyone looking to simplify their laundry routine with a natural, effective cleaner.

How Does Laundry Soda Work?

Laundry soda works by altering the pH level of water, making it more alkaline. This process helps to break down stains, dissolve oils, and lift dirt from fabrics, making it a highly effective cleaner. Additionally, laundry soda softens hard water, which prevents minerals from depositing on your clothes, leading to brighter, cleaner laundry. When added to a wash cycle, laundry soda boosts the power of your detergent, making it especially useful for heavily soiled or stained items.

Benefits of Using Laundry Soda

1. Powerful Stain Removal
   Laundry soda is excellent at tackling stubborn stains, such as grease, oil, and grime, making it ideal for work clothes, sportswear, and heavily soiled fabrics. It works by breaking down molecules that cause stains, leaving your clothes clean and refreshed.

2. Odour Neutralising
   Laundry soda’s alkaline nature neutralises odours, leaving your laundry smelling fresh. It’s particularly useful for washing gym clothes, pet bedding, or anything that tends to retain strong odours.

3. Eco-Friendly and Non-Toxic
   Unlike some traditional detergents, laundry soda is free from dyes, fragrances, and harsh chemicals, making it a more environmentally friendly option. It’s also safer for people with sensitive skin or allergies, as it doesn’t contain additives that might cause irritation.

4. Cost-Effective
   Laundry soda is an affordable alternative to conventional laundry detergents. A small amount goes a long way, and it can be used on its own or as a detergent booster, helping you get more out of each wash.

How to Use Laundry Soda

Using laundry soda is simple, and it can be added to both top- and front-loading washing machines.

1. As a Detergent Alternative: For lightly soiled clothes, you can use laundry soda on its own. Add about half a cup directly to the drum or detergent compartment.

2. As a Detergent Booster: To boost the effectiveness of your regular detergent, add a quarter to half a cup of laundry soda along with your detergent. This is especially useful for heavily soiled loads or hard water areas.

3. For Spot Cleaning: To treat stains, make a paste with laundry soda and water. Apply it directly to the stain, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse and wash as usual.

Is Laundry Soda Safe for All Fabrics?

While laundry soda is generally safe for most fabrics, it’s best to avoid using it on delicate items like silk or wool, as its high alkalinity can be too harsh for these materials. For delicate fabrics, use a detergent specifically designed for gentle washing, and test a small amount of laundry soda on any unfamiliar fabric if you’re unsure.

Laundry Soda vs. Baking Soda – What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse laundry soda with baking soda, but they’re actually two different products. Laundry soda (sodium carbonate) is a stronger alkali than baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and is specifically designed for cleaning purposes. While both can be used in laundry, laundry soda is more effective for tough stains and odours, whereas baking soda is milder and works better for deodorising and softening.

Where to Find Laundry Soda

Laundry soda is widely available at supermarkets and online. Look for products labelled as “washing soda” or “sodium carbonate” in the laundry aisle. It’s often sold as a powder, which can be easily measured and added to your laundry.

Laundry soda is a versatile, powerful, and eco-friendly addition to your laundry routine. Whether you’re tackling tough stains, looking to soften hard water, or simply want a cleaner, greener option, laundry soda is a simple way to boost your wash and enjoy fresh, bright clothes.