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Put Salt in Your Washing Machine — Here’s Why Appliance Repairmen Won’t Tell You
When it comes to laundry, most people rely on detergent, fabric softener, and perhaps a stain remover or two. But what if we told you that a common kitchen ingredient — salt — could take your laundry routine to the next level? That’s right! Adding salt to your washing machine can offer surprising benefits for your clothes and even your machine.
While appliance repairmen may not mention this little trick (perhaps to avoid fewer service calls!), it’s an old-school, budget-friendly laundry hack that’s well worth trying. Here’s what happens when you put salt in your washing machine — and why you’ll want to do it regularly.
1. Preserve Colors and Prevent Fading
Salt helps lock in the dyes used in fabric, especially for new clothes. If you’ve ever watched your favorite shirt lose its vibrancy after just a few washes, this simple trick could save it.
How to use:
Add ½ cup of table salt to the wash cycle when washing new or brightly colored clothes. It helps prevent the dye from bleeding and keeps colors sharp.
Pro Tip: This is especially helpful for red, blue, and dark garments, which are more prone to fading.
2. Remove Detergent Residue
Over time, detergent can build up in both your clothes and your machine, leading to stiff fabrics and dull colors. Salt helps break down and lift this residue.
How to use:
Add ¼ cup of salt along with your regular detergent every few loads to soften fabrics and restore brightness.
3. Natural Fabric Softener
If you’re looking to ditch chemical softeners, salt can act as a natural alternative that won’t irritate sensitive skin.
How to use:
Mix ½ cup of salt with ½ cup of baking soda, and add to the drum before washing. This combo softens water and fabric — leaving clothes fresh and gentle.
4. Eliminate Mildew Odors
Musty-smelling towels or gym clothes? Salt has natural antimicrobial properties that help combat bacteria and mildew.
How to use:
Add ½ cup of coarse salt to a hot wash cycle (no clothes needed) to clean and deodorize the drum. For fabrics, use salt in the pre-wash cycle to tackle odor.
5. Boost Stain Removal
Salt is particularly effective against fresh stains like blood, wine, sweat, and grease.
How to use:
- Pre-treatment: Make a paste of salt and water, apply directly to the stain, and let sit for 30 minutes before washing.
- In the wash: Add 2–3 tablespoons of salt with your regular detergent to help lift stubborn stains.
