White vinegar laundry hack: How to use vinegar in your washing machine to soften clothes and remove odours

White vinegar is known for its many household cleaning uses, but it can also be surprisingly helpful when it comes to doing laundry. It can help freshen clothes, reduce odors and soften fabrics without relying on commercial fabric softeners. If your clothes often feel stiff after washing or still carry unpleasant smells, adding a small amount of distilled white vinegar to your laundry routine may help.

How Vinegar Helps Your Clothes

Vinegar works as a natural cleaner that can help neutralize odors and leave fabrics feeling softer. It can also help remove some mineral and soap buildup that may accumulate over time.

Another potential benefit is that vinegar can help maintain the appearance of white clothes when used appropriately.

What You Need

• 1/2 to 1 cup of distilled white vinegar
• A measuring cup
• Washing machine or basin for hand-washing

How to Use Vinegar in the Washing Machine

For softening clothes, vinegar should generally be added during the rinse cycle. Measure the required amount and add it to the appropriate dispenser or according to your washing machine's instructions.

As the clothes rinse, the vinegar can help neutralize lingering odors and reduce that may make fabrics feel stiff.

Which Fabrics Can Be Washed With Vinegar?

Vinegar is generally better suited to sturdier fabrics. These include:

Cotton

Linen

Polyester

Nylon

Microfiber

However, it's always a good idea to check the garment's care label before adding vinegar to your wash.

When Should You Avoid Vinegar?

Vinegar is acidic, so it isn't suitable for every type of fabric. Silk, acetate, elastic and brightly coloured fabrics may be more sensitive and should be treated carefully.

If you're unsure how a particular fabric will react, test a small amount of diluted vinegar on an inconspicuous area first. For delicate garments, it's safer to follow the manufacturer's washing instructions rather than risk damaging the material.

A Simple Natural Laundry Alternative

Used correctly, distilled white vinegar can be a useful addition to your laundry routine, particularly for reducing odors and helping fabrics feel softer. However, it should be used selectively and never as a substitute for following fabric-care instructions.