ACV in your laundry?

Question from Curious Cleaner

Dear Dr. Vincent,

I’ve heard that vinegar can be a great addition to laundry, but I’m unsure about how to use it correctly. Could you explain the best way to incorporate vinegar into my laundry routine and why activated apple cider vinegar is recommended?

Sincerely,
Curious Cleaner

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Dear Curious Cleaner,

Great question! Vinegar is indeed a versatile and valuable tool in the laundry room. When used properly, it can help with everything from softening fabrics to removing odours and even brightening colours. Let’s dive into the right way to use vinegar in your laundry and why activated apple cider vinegar might be your best choice.

Why Use Vinegar in Laundry?

1. Natural Fabric Softener: Vinegar acts as a natural fabric softener by helping to break down detergent residues that can make clothes feel stiff.

2. Odour Elimination: It neutralises odours rather than just masking them. This makes it particularly effective for eliminating lingering smells from sports gear or damp towels.

3. Brightening Colours: Vinegar helps to maintain the brightness of coloured fabrics by preventing detergent residues from dulling them over time.

4. Stain Removal: Its mild acidic nature can help dissolve certain types of stains, making it easier to wash them out.

5. Preventing Lint and Static: Vinegar can help reduce static cling and minimise lint buildup on your clothes.

How to Use Vinegar in Your Laundry

1. For Fabric Softening:

   • Method: Add 1/2 cup of vinegar to your washing machine’s fabric softener dispenser. This will ensure that it’s released during the rinse cycle.

   • Note: Avoid using more than the recommended amount as too much vinegar can sometimes be harsh on fabrics over time.

2. For Odour Removal:

   • Method: Add 1 cup of vinegar directly to the wash water. This is especially useful for heavily soiled or odour-ridden items.

   • Note: For extra freshness, you can combine vinegar with a few drops of essential oils, though this is optional.

3. For Brightening Colours:

   • Method: Add 1 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle to help prevent colours from fading and to brighten them up.

   • Note: Always test on a small area first if you’re dealing with very delicate fabrics.

4. For Stain Removal:

   • Method: Apply undiluted vinegar directly to the stain before washing. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wash as usual.

   • Note: This is particularly effective for deodorising and removing stains caused by perspiration or food.

Why Choose Activated Apple Cider Vinegar?

Activated apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a gentler alternative to distilled white vinegar and comes with additional benefits:

1. Milder on Fabrics: ACV is less acidic than white vinegar, making it gentler on delicate fabrics. This can be particularly beneficial for maintaining the longevity of your clothes.

2. Natural Benefits: ACV contains beneficial bacteria and enzymes that can provide additional cleaning and deodorising properties, enhancing its effectiveness.

3. Less Harsh Odour: The natural apple aroma of ACV is less pungent than the sharp scent of white vinegar, which can be more pleasant for those sensitive to strong odours.

4. Eco-Friendly: ACV is often produced in a more environmentally friendly way, making it a better choice for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

Tips for Using Activated Apple Cider Vinegar:

• Dosage: Use the same amount of ACV as you would distilled white vinegar—typically 1/2 to 1 cup per load, depending on the size and level of soiling.

• Pre-Mix: For convenience, you can pre-mix ACV with water and store it in a spray bottle to apply directly to stains or to use in your rinse cycle.

In summary, incorporating vinegar into your laundry routine can be a game-changer for maintaining the quality and freshness of your clothes. Activated apple cider vinegar, with its milder nature and added benefits, is a fantastic option to consider for a gentler and more eco-friendly approach.

Happy laundering!

Best regards,
Dr. Vincent