20 top laundry hacks of all time
Georgia Lynn
Contributing Writer
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Laundry is a chore that most people face regularly, yet it often feels like a never-ending task. However, with the right tips and tricks, you can transform your laundry routine into a more efficient and effective process. From saving time and money to preserving the quality of your clothes, these 20 top laundry hacks are designed to simplify your life and enhance your laundry skills. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn stains, faded colors, or wrinkled clothes, these hacks will help you tackle any laundry challenge with ease.
1. Unshrinking Clothes with Hair Conditioner
Accidentally shrinking your favorite sweater can be a nightmare, but there’s a simple solution. To unshrink clothes, fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a tablespoon of hair conditioner. Soak the garment for about 30 minutes, then gently stretch it back to its original size. The conditioner helps relax the fibers, making it easier to reshape the fabric.
2. Using Vinegar as a Natural Fabric Softener
Vinegar is a versatile household item that can double as a natural fabric softener. Add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to soften clothes and reduce static. Vinegar also helps remove detergent residue, leaving your clothes fresh and clean without the use of harsh chemicals.
3. Ice Cubes for Wrinkle-Free Clothes
If you’re in a rush and need wrinkle-free clothes, toss a few ice cubes into the dryer with your wrinkled garments. Run the dryer on a high setting for about 10 minutes. The steam from the melting ice will help release wrinkles, saving you time on ironing.
4. Whitening Pillows with Baking Soda and Vinegar
Over time, pillows can become yellowed and dingy. To whiten them, add a cup of baking soda and a cup of white vinegar to your washing machine along with your pillows. The combination of these two ingredients will help break down stains and brighten your pillows, making them look like new.
5. Removing Stains with Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap
For tough stains, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and dish soap. Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for about 10 minutes before washing as usual. This powerful combination is effective at breaking down and lifting stubborn stains from fabrics.
6. Freshening Up Clothes with Essential Oils
To give your clothes a pleasant scent, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a damp washcloth and toss it in the dryer with your clothes. This will infuse your laundry with a natural fragrance without the need for chemical-laden dryer sheets.
7. Using Aluminum Foil to Eliminate Static Cling
Static cling can be a nuisance, but aluminum foil can help. Roll a sheet of aluminum foil into a ball and toss it into the dryer with your clothes. The foil will help discharge static electricity, leaving your clothes static-free.
8. Brightening Whites with Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can help brighten whites. Add half a cup of lemon juice to the wash cycle to enhance the brightness of your white clothes. The acidity of the lemon helps break down stains and restore the fabric’s natural whiteness.
9. Cleaning the Washing Machine with Vinegar and Baking Soda
A clean washing machine is essential for clean laundry. To remove buildup and odors, run an empty cycle with hot water, adding a cup of vinegar and a cup of baking soda. This combination will help clean and deodorize your machine, ensuring it functions efficiently.
10. Using Salt to Prevent Color Bleeding
To prevent colors from bleeding in the wash, add a tablespoon of salt to the wash cycle. The salt helps set the dye in the fabric, reducing the risk of colors running and preserving the vibrancy of your clothes.
11. Deodorizing Clothes with Vodka
Vodka is an effective deodorizer for clothes. Fill a spray bottle with vodka and lightly mist your garments. The alcohol will help neutralize odors without leaving a scent, making it perfect for freshening up clothes between washes.
12. Softening Towels with Epsom Salt
To keep your towels soft and fluffy, add a cup of Epsom salt to the wash cycle. The minerals in the salt help soften the fabric, preventing towels from becoming stiff and scratchy over time.
13. Removing Grease Stains with Chalk
