Vinegar’s acidity, a key attribute in its cleaning prowess, varies depending on the type. For example, cleaning vinegar, boasting up to 10% acetic acid,has a pH of approximately 2.0. However, a standard 5% solution is recommended for laundry purposes.
Here are six ways to leverage white vinegar in your laundry routine:
Vinegar acts as a natural odor eliminator without the need for artificial fragrances. Whether dealing with mildew, underarm odors, or general unpleasant smells, vinegar destroys the bacteria causing the stench. For mildew odors in towels, add 2 cups of distilled vinegar to a hot water washer. To freshen clothing, add half to a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle.
2. Remove Stains:
Combat stains by spraying vinegar on the affected area before washing. For minor stains, soak the item in a solution of one cup vinegar and two cups warm water. Tough stains can be treated with a paste made from one tablespoon each of vinegar and baking soda.
3. Protect Colors:
Prevent soap residue from dulling dark fabrics over time by adding a cup of vinegar to the final rinse cycle, preserving the vibrancy of your dark colors.
4. Lint and Static Fighter:
Say goodbye to static, lint, and pet hair with ½ cup of vinegar added to your washer’s rinse cycle.
5. Use as a Fabric Softener:
Break down detergent residue and soften clothes by adding half a cup of vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser in your machine, providing a natural alternative to commercial fabric softeners.
6. Gentle Whitener:
Brighten whites and remove tough stains by adding 1 1/2 cups of vinegar to the wash cycle. For stubborn stains on white items, soak them in a mixture of a half-gallon of hot water and two cups of vinegar overnight.