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The Surprising Benefits of Adding Salt to Your Washing Machine: A Handy Guide
When we think of salt, it’s usually in the context of seasoning food or melting ice on the driveway. But did you know that humble table salt can also be a game-changer in your laundry routine? That’s right — adding salt to your washing machine can have some unexpected and surprisingly useful benefits. Here’s a handy guide to show you how this kitchen staple can enhance your wash, protect your clothes, and even extend the life of your appliance.
Why Add Salt to Your Wash?
Salt, specifically sodium chloride, has natural cleansing and softening properties. It’s inexpensive, non-toxic, and easy to find, making it a smart addition to your laundry toolkit. Let’s dive into the key benefits.
1. Preserves Fabric Color
One of the most common complaints about laundry is color fading. Salt can help lock in the colors of new clothes, especially bright or dark items, preventing them from running or looking dull after just a few washes. The chloride in salt helps set the dye in fabrics, reducing bleeding and fading.
How to use it:
Before the first wash, soak new clothes in a solution of ½ cup salt and 1 quart of cold water for about an hour. Or, add ½ cup of salt to your machine during a regular cold wash.
2. Fights Stains Naturally
Salt is mildly abrasive and highly absorbent, which makes it excellent for tackling stains, particularly those from wine, blood, sweat, or grease. It helps break down the stain and lift it from fabric fibers.
How to use it:
Sprinkle salt directly on a fresh stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then wash as usual. For stubborn stains, create a paste of salt and water and rub it gently into the fabric before washing.
3. Softens Hard Water
If you live in an area with hard water, you know how it can affect your laundry. Minerals like calcium and magnesium can make detergents less effective and leave clothes feeling stiff. Salt acts as a natural water softener, helping detergents dissolve better and preventing mineral build-up in your machine.
How to use it:
Add ½ cup of salt to your wash load along with your usual detergent to combat hard water effects.
4. Reduces Limescale in the Washing Machine
Over time, limescale can build up inside your washing machine, especially in hard water areas. Salt helps break down these mineral deposits and keeps your machine running more efficiently.
How to use it:
Once a month, run an empty hot cycle with 1 cup of salt to help clean and deodorize your machine.
