This archive report was first published on 29 June 2020.
Whiten Your Clothes Without Bleach ¶
Published on June 29, 2020
White clothes are a staple in many people's wardrobes, but maintaining their brightness can be a challenge. While bleach is often the go-to solution, it can damage fragile fabrics and cause skin irritation. Fortunately, there are several natural methods to whiten your clothes without using bleach.
One effective method is to use baking soda. Simply add it to your washing detergent and soak your white clothes. For instant results on specific stains, mix baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to the stain area. Let it dry, then rinse and wash as usual.
Another natural whitening agent is vinegar. It not only whitens clothes but also acts as a fabric softener. To use vinegar, soak your clothes in a detergent solution and add some vinegar. Vinegar is also helpful in removing sweat stains that can make underarms look yellow.
Hydrogen peroxide is another alternative to bleach. It's less toxic and removes stains faster. To use hydrogen peroxide, pour it directly on the affected area and wait for it to bleach out. This method is especially effective for stubborn stains.
Water treatment products, such as Waterguard, can also be used to whiten clothes. These products contain chlorine, which is a natural bleaching agent. They are available at household level and are convenient to use, as they don't have the choking smell of bleach. Chlorine also doesn't decolourize your white clothes or damage your hands and nails.
Finally, lemons can be used to bleach white clothes, although their effectiveness is mild. To use lemons, soak the stained area with lemon juice to remove the stain upfront before washing.
Remember to always read the fabric care instructions before trying any of these methods to ensure you don't damage your clothes.
