Vinegar is the key to whiter clothes and softer towels, but most people use it wrong | May 12, 2025

Here’s an article based on the title “Vinegar is the key to whiter clothes and softer towels, but most people use it wrong.”

Vinegar: The Secret to Brighter Whites and Softer Towels (When Used Correctly)
Vinegar is a household staple with a surprising range of uses, especially in the laundry room. This budget-friendly and eco-friendly solution can make your whites brighter and your towels softer, but many people miss its full potential by using it incorrectly. Let’s explore how vinegar works and the best practices for incorporating it into your laundry routine.

Why Vinegar Works in Laundry
Vinegar, specifically white distilled vinegar, contains acetic acid, which is mild but effective at breaking down residues left by detergents, fabric softeners, and hard water minerals. These residues can dull fabrics, reduce absorbency, and even irritate sensitive skin.

Common Mistakes When Using Vinegar in Laundry
Using Too Much Vinegar
Overloading your laundry with vinegar won’t make it more effective. In fact, it can cause a lingering vinegar smell or damage delicate fabrics. A little goes a long way.

Pouring It Directly Onto Clothes
Applying vinegar directly to fabrics can cause discoloration or weaken fibers over time. Always dilute it before use.

Mixing Vinegar and Bleach
This is a dangerous combination. When mixed, these two produce toxic chlorine gas, which can harm your health.

The Right Way to Use Vinegar in Laundry
For Whiter Clothes
Add 1/2 to 1 cup of vinegar to your washing machine during the rinse cycle. It helps strip away detergent buildup and revives the brightness of white garments.

For Softer Towels
Towels can lose their softness due to detergent buildup. Run a load with 1 cup of vinegar in place of detergent. This not only softens the towels but also restores their absorbency.
continued on next page

Advertisement: