An expert has shared a simple way to wash white laundry items that are difficult to clean. White items like socks and shirts are particularly prone to staining due to their absorbent fabric, and if left untreated, these blemishes can become deeply embedded.
Using bleach may seem like a straightforward solution to tough stains, yet its hazardous qualities could interact adversely with the stain and leave your whites looking even more discoloured. Moreover, grease-based stains defy bleach cleaning methods, potentially ruining the fabric.
Thrive Market's expert, Annalise, suggests a far better alternative to bleach: lemon juice combined with hydrogen peroxide. Annalise shares: "Citric acid is the natural compound inside responsible for lightening and brightening. It's as effective as conventional fabric whitening products."
She recommends: "Add a mixture of [half a] cup lemon juice (ideally, fresh) and [one and a half] cups hydrogen peroxide to the load along with detergent to brighten dingy whites. Be careful to separate out any colours, like bleach, as it could cause them to fade.", reports the Express.
Citric acid, present in citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes, effectively breaks down most common stains, including perspiration and food residue. Furthermore, it can eliminate lingering soap remnants from laundry detergents, enhancing the overall brightness of the fabric.
Hydrogen peroxide, a chemical compound primarily composed of hydrogen and oxygen, is often utilised as a gentler alternative to bleach for laundry whitening purposes.
When it encounters stubborn stains, hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen molecules that disintegrate the stain pigments, facilitating their removal during washing.
The process is simple: add 120ml of lemon juice and 360ml of 3% concentration hydrogen peroxide to your washing machine drum. Proceed with your regular laundry detergent and select your usual wash cycle.
After the wash, if possible, hang your clothes outdoors. The sun's interaction with citric acid can further aid in whitening garments.
Sunlight's ultraviolet rays can also assist in breaking down stains and eliminating yellowing, particularly if you've previously attempted to treat the fabric with bleach.
However, exercise caution and limit the exposure of white clothing on the line to a maximum of one day, as prolonged sunlight exposure can deteriorate the fabric.
