Baking Soda: The Ultimate Odor Eliminator for Laundry

by Rosa February 1, 2019

written by Rosa February 1, 2019

Baking Soda: A Potent Odor Eliminator for Laundry

Baking soda, a versatile household staple, is not only a great cleaning agent but also an effective odor eliminator for laundry. Its alkaline nature neutralizes acidic odors, making it ideal for removing stubborn smells like smoke, sweat, gas, oil, and even baby spit-up.

Why Baking Soda Neutralizes Laundry Odors

Unlike scented detergents that merely mask odors, baking soda actually neutralizes the acids that produce the unpleasant scents. It absorbs oils that contribute to odors, leaving your laundry smelling fresh and clean.

Freshening Ordinary Laundry with Baking Soda

Even regular laundry can benefit from the freshening power of baking soda. Add 1/2 cup to your top-loader or front-loader washing machine, either directly on the clothes or in the detergent compartment. If you run out of laundry detergent, you can use 1 cup of baking soda as a substitute.

Removing Smoky Smells from Laundry

Smoke tends to cling to laundry fibers. To remove tough smoke odors, soak your clothes in a solution of 1/2 cup baking soda dissolved in a sink or bucket of water. Stir the mixture occasionally during the soaking process. Once the odor has dissipated, wash the clothing as usual.

Eliminating Sweat Smells from Laundry

Sweat-soaked garments like hats, gloves, and headbands can be refreshed using a baking soda soak. Dissolve 1/2 cup of baking soda in a sink or bucket of water and allow the sweaty items to soak for several hours or overnight. Stir periodically. For persistent sweat odors, apply a paste of baking soda and water directly to the affected areas before soaking.

Removing Gas and Oil Smells from Laundry

Gasoline, oil, and other mechanical smells can be effectively removed from clothing using baking soda. Place the smelly clothes in a sealed bag with a mixture of baking soda and water. Leave the bag sealed for a day or two before washing. You may need to soak the clothes in the baking soda solution for longer to thoroughly eliminate the odor. Hand-wash oily or greasy items to prevent spreading the oil or staining other clothes in the washing machine.

Removing Spit-Up Smells from Laundry

Baking soda can also neutralize the unpleasant odor of vomit or baby spit-up on clothing. Sprinkle dry baking soda directly on the soiled area and wash the clothing as usual when you have time. Baking soda also brightens and whitens fabrics, making it a great choice for removing stains from baby clothes.

Sprinkling Baking Soda on Laundry

If you can’t wash smelly clothes immediately, sprinkle baking soda directly on them. The longer the clothes sit, the more likely they are to need additional treatment to remove the odors thoroughly.

Additional Tips for Using Baking Soda on Laundry

For tough odors, use more baking soda (up to 1 cup per load).
If you have particularly delicate fabrics, test baking soda on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the fabric.
Baking soda can also be used as a carpet deodorizer. Sprinkle it on the carpet, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up.

Rosa

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.