Introduction:
When it comes to laundry, most of us rely on traditional detergents, fabric softeners, and occasional cleaning cycles to keep our clothes fresh and our washing machines in good working order. But what if there’s a simple household ingredient that could improve both the cleanliness of your clothes and the longevity of your washing machine? Surprisingly, salt is one of those hidden gems that appliance repairmen often don’t share. Adding salt to your washing machine can offer a multitude of benefits—from removing stains to boosting the effectiveness of your detergent. In this article, we’ll dive into why this simple kitchen staple is so effective and how you can start using it in your laundry routine today.
Ingredients:
Salt (Regular Table Salt or Epsom Salt) – A common household ingredient that you probably already have in your pantry.
Laundry Detergent – The detergent you usually use for washing your clothes.
Water – Clean water for washing and rinsing.
Instructions:
1. Choose the Right Salt:
You can use regular table salt or Epsom salt for this hack. Both types are effective at breaking down stains and boosting detergent performance. Table salt is the easiest option, but Epsom salt is often preferred for its extra cleaning and softening properties.
2. Add Salt to the Wash:
When loading your washing machine, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of salt to the drum before you start the wash cycle. This can be done for both regular and delicate loads.
If you’re using a top-loading machine, simply sprinkle the salt directly onto your clothes. For front-loaders, you can add the salt directly into the drum or the detergent compartment.
3. Wash as Usual:
Run the washing machine on your normal cycle with the detergent and salt. The salt will work alongside the detergent to help lift stains, soften water, and neutralize odors.
4. Optional – For Extra Cleaning Power:
For a deep clean, you can also run an empty hot water cycle with just salt in the drum (without clothes) to help clean and freshen the washing machine itself. This can help reduce soap scum and buildup inside the machine.
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