Towels often come out of the wash dirtier than you think, especially if fabric softener is used. As summer approaches, preparing towels for the beach or pool requires a thorough clean, as bacteria can thrive in soap residue. A simple method using washing soda can restore towels effectively.
Why Towels Get Dirty
Many people mistakenly use fabric softener when laundering towels, which can cause excess soap to block fibres. This soap accumulates into a waxy coating that may not be immediately visible but leaves towels stiff, produces a stale odour, and compromises hygiene.
The Solution: Washing Soda
Catherine Wrench from Planet Friendly Living explains: "Washing soda has properties that make it especially useful around the home. It is particularly effective at breaking down acids and oils, softening water, cutting through soap scum, and removing stains." Washing soda, or sodium carbonate, is a natural salt that is highly alkaline, enabling it to dissolve fabric softener and greasy substances with minimal fuss.
Deploying washing soda strips away buildup clinging to towels, ensuring they emerge from the washing machine fresher, fluffier, and more moisture-wicking. This method provides a deep clean without repeated washing cycles.
How to Wash Towels with Washing Soda
Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Wash towels separately from clothing to avoid lint transfer.
- Place towels in the washing machine and add approximately 120ml of washing soda directly into the drum.
- Add a modest amount of laundry detergent to the drawer, but never use fabric softener.
- Set the machine to a hot wash at 60°C or 90°C to eliminate bacteria.
- Once the cycle finishes, run an additional rinse cycle to remove loosened soap residue.
- Dry towels outdoors in sunshine or in a tumble dryer on medium heat.
After this treatment, towels should smell fantastic and feel considerably softer, ready for summer beach or pool use.
