A budget-friendly laundry hack using soda crystals may help transform hard towels into soft, fluffy ones in just one wash cycle.
White vinegar has long been a go-to cleaning solution for preserving towel softness and freshness. The gentle acidity in distilled white vinegar breaks down detergent build-up and acts as a natural fabric conditioner. However, one cleaning specialist has abandoned this environmentally friendly hack in favour of what she considers a superior alternative, and cleaning specialists agree.
Why soda crystals replace vinegar
Instead of adding white vinegar to the detergent drawer, the specialist now opts for placing a scoop of soda crystals straight into the washing machine drum. This method ensures towels come out of the washer feeling cleaner and softer, even before they have completely dried.
The Dri-Pak Soda Crystals are bought from Home Bargains and cost £1.79. Soda crystals are a naturally occurring salt with strong alkalinity, allowing them to effectively dissolve fabric conditioner and different oils with ease.
How to use soda crystals on towels
Laundering towels can present a challenge, especially as greasy soap accumulation proves stubborn to eliminate without resorting to harsh cleaners that might potentially fade or harm the fabric. However, by using soda crystals, you can strip away any build-up from towels, ensuring they come out cleaner, softer, and more absorbent.
Several of the specialist's towels are nearing a decade old now, yet they do not feel rough and crusty. The method involves washing towels separately from clothing and bedding, as garments typically shed substantial amounts of lint throughout a wash cycle, which can lead to fluff adhering to towels.
The washing process
A scoop of soda crystals is placed into the drum along with a single laundry detergent pod prior to loading the towels. Fabric softener should be avoided when laundering towels, as it can cause a greasy soap residue to accumulate.
The washing machine is programmed to a hot 60-degree cycle to thoroughly cleanse the towels and eliminate any bacteria. Once the cycle is over, an extra rinse cycle is run to assist in removing any soap residue that may have been dislodged from the towels.
After the washing machine has finished, the towels are hung outdoors to dry in the sunshine during this season. If outdoor drying proves impossible, placing the towels on an airer alongside a dehumidifier is the best option.
