My homemade “to-the-rescue” laundry whitener. A proactive solution to the “mess” of summer – no bleach, just natural, effective ingredients
For our family July means long, hot days at the fair and in the garden, so whether it’s dirt, sweat, or a popsicle dripping down one of my kids shirts, this time of year comes with the need for something more powerful in our laundry routine than just detergent (did I mention I have a recipe for that too?).
It’s more than just a reactive solution to the chaos of this season – I make sure to give our showing clothes for the fair a good wash before we even wear them out. Whatever your family needs stain relief from, this homemade laundry whitener will have you covered. Often times the ingredients for natural, effective solutions can be found right in your own home!
This effective laundry whitener is great for tough stains because of these natural ingredients:
Hydrogen Peroxide: Natural Bleaching Agent
Baking Soda: Deodorizes and lifts stains
Lemon Juice: Boosts brightness and acts as a mild bleach
1 cup hydrogen peroxide (3%)
½ cup baking soda
¼ cup lemon juice
4–6 cups hot water (not boiling)
Optional (for really dingy whites):
• 1 tablespoon castile soap or mild detergent
• A few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil for freshness and anti-fungal benefits
How do different water temperatures affect the effectiveness of laundry whiteners?
I use hot water as this activates and dissolves the ingredients quickly
Can I soak my clothes for a shorter or longer amount of time depending on the type of stain?
Yes, different stains require different treatments
Why do I want to avoid bleach in my laundry whitener?
Bleach can lead to fabric damage, color loss, and can be irritating to the skin. There are a multitude of reasons to avoid bleach if you can, and with this recipe, you’re good to go!
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This post may contain affiliate links from a paid sponsor, Amazon or other program. When you use these links to make a purchase I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This allows me to continue creating the content that you love. The content in this article is created for information only and based on my research and/or opinion.
Emily T.
DAILY INSPIRATION ON THE GRAM @hearty.sol
it's hip to be square!
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