1 cup white vinegar
½ cup baking soda
10–15 drops essential oil (like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus) – optional
Hot water (for soaking, if needed)
These ingredients help break down buildup, neutralize odors, and refresh your machine and your clothes without synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals.
Preparation
Run a cleaning cycle in your washing machine once a month:
Pour 1 cup white vinegar directly into the drum.
Run the machine on the hottest, longest cycle with no clothes.
Halfway through, pause the cycle and add ½ cup baking soda, then let it finish.
For smelly clothes, soak them before washing:
Fill a basin or tub with hot water, 1 cup vinegar, and ½ cup baking soda.
Let clothes soak for 30–60 minutes, then wash as usual.
To add a natural scent boost, mix 10 drops of essential oil into a damp washcloth and toss it into the dryer with your load.
Serving and Storage Tips (in this context: use and maintenance tips)
Store vinegar and baking soda separately in dry, cool places to preserve their effectiveness.
Keep essential oils in a dark, cool place, tightly sealed.
Use this remedy every few weeks or whenever laundry smells dull or stale.
Always follow fabric care labels when soaking or using hot water.
Variants
Lemon juice instead of vinegar: Naturally acidic, lemon juice also removes odors and leaves a fresh scent.
Hydrogen peroxide (1/2 cup): For extra disinfection — great for towels and gym clothes.
Borax booster: Add 1 tablespoon of borax to your regular wash cycle to remove stubborn smells.
Washing soda: Use as a baking soda alternative for tougher odor-fighting power.
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