Rough, scratchy towels can be transformed into soft, fluffy hotel-quality linens with one simple ingredient added to the wash cycle, according to cleaning influencer Leanne, known as @home.with.leanne. In a viral video, she demonstrated how baking soda — or bicarbonate of soda — restores towels to their former glory in just one wash.
The Problem with Hard Towels
Hard water, friction, and constant exposure to oil and dirt cause towels to become stiff and rough over time. Many people assume their towels are worn out, but Leanne insists, "Your towels aren't old; you're just washing them wrong." She revealed that adding roughly half a cup of baking soda directly into the washing machine drum alongside towels breaks down stubborn detergent residue that builds up on fibres, leaving them feeling less stiff and far more fluffy.
Why Baking Soda Works
Baking soda is a versatile household staple known for stain removal, odour neutralisation, and drain unclogging. In laundry, it effectively removes excess detergent that clings to thick towel fibres, causing a crunchy texture. Using more detergent does not mean cleaner towels; in fact, overdoing it can have the opposite effect. Excess soap fails to rinse out fully, especially in thicker materials, leaving behind unwelcome residue. The hack suggests halving your usual detergent quantity, which is typically more than enough to clean towels properly.
Simple Steps for Best Results
For best results, add half a cup of baking soda to the drum with towels and run a warm wash cycle at 40°C. This temperature is hot enough to clean thoroughly and remove oils and residues while remaining gentle enough to protect fibres from damage. Over time, this technique helps maintain soft, fluffy texture instead of wearing towels down. Users report instantly apparent results — towels come out softer and smelling fresher, almost like hotel-standard linens overnight. As one user commented, "Such a good and low tox hack, and nothing better than a fluffy, soft, white bath towel."
