Say goodbye to laundry odors with this simple 3‑ingredient trick
Nothing spoils the joy of fresh laundry like the unpleasant smell of clothes after taking them out of the washing machine. Fortunately, there are simple, homemade methods to restore your laundry's pleasant, natural scent without resorting to chemicals.
One of the most effective and simplest solutions is a combination of three ingredients that you probably have at home: table salt, baking soda, and natural essential oil. Simply mix about 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda with 1–2 tablespoons of salt, then add a few drops of your favorite essential oil—such as lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus. You can pour this mixture directly into the washing machine drum before putting in the clothes or place it in a special mesh bag and add it to the drum as a natural freshener.
Salt helps in stain removal, baking soda has antibacterial and refreshing properties, and the essential oil gives the laundry a long-lasting, fresh aroma. This solution works well for both everyday laundry and refreshing towels, bed linens, or sports clothes.
Additional tips for fresh laundry
For better results, it is also worth remembering to regularly clean the washing machine— including the drum, seals, and detergent drawer. This helps minimize the risk of mold and bacteria development, which are common causes of unpleasant odors.
Besides:
- Remove clothes immediately after the cycle ends. Damp laundry left in the machine starts to smell unpleasant after just a few hours.
- Do not overload the drum. Clothes should have room to rinse and spin properly.
- Dry laundry in a well-ventilated area. If drying indoors, try to ensure good air circulation.
Natural solutions can be surprisingly effective while being gentle on the skin, fabrics, and environment. The mixture of salt, baking soda, and essential oil is a simple way to have laundry that not only looks clean but also smells fresh—without the need for artificial fragrances or harsh chemicals.
