Can Salt Be Used to Clean Washcloths? Yes, and Here’s Why You Should T

Can Salt Be Used to Clean Washcloths? Yes, and Here’s Why You Should Try It!

by: Amelia Cross | Written on October 4, 2024

You know that sinking feeling when you pick up your favorite washcloth, the one you rely on every day, only to notice that it’s covered in stains, smells a little funky, and has lost its vibrant color? It’s that moment when you think, “Ugh, maybe it’s time to throw this one out.” But what if I told you there’s a way to revive your trusty washcloth with something as simple as salt? Yes, salt—the same stuff you sprinkle on your fries. After testing this myself and diving into some research, I’m here to tell you: salt is a game-changer for your laundry routine. And if you love finding natural, cost-effective solutions like I do, this one’s going to be a lifesaver.

1. A Stain-Removing Powerhouse

Stains. We all hate them. Whether it’s makeup, food, or just life in general, washcloths seem to attract all the worst ones. Normally, I’d reach for some industrial-strength cleaner, but after hearing a tip from my grandmother (who always knew best), I decided to give salt a try. I soaked my stained washcloth in a solution of half a cup of salt and cold water for a few hours. When I took it out, I couldn’t believe it—the stains were practically gone!

There’s something so satisfying about finding a natural solution that works. According to CDC guidelines, salt acts as a mild abrasive that can help break down stains without wearing down the fabric. Plus, using something as simple as salt made me feel like I was connecting to past generations who relied on natural remedies. It was a small but powerful reminder that not all good cleaning solutions come in plastic bottles.

2. Say Goodbye to Musty Odors Naturally

We’ve all been there. That gross, damp smell that clings to washcloths—no matter how many times you wash them. It’s enough to make you think about tossing them out. But guess what? Salt can help with that too. My friend Emma is all about natural cleaning and told me, “Just throw a quarter cup of salt into the wash. It neutralizes the worst smells.” Of course, I was skeptical at first, but after trying it, I’m a believer.

Salt works by breaking down odor-causing bacteria, leaving your fabrics smelling fresher. I was surprised at how quickly it worked. That unpleasant, damp smell? Gone. EPA research supports using natural deodorizing agents like salt to reduce the use of chemicals in the home. And let me tell you, when you finally pull a fresh, clean-smelling washcloth out of the dryer, it’s one of those small victories that makes your day.

3. Brighten Your Fabrics Naturally

One of the most delightful surprises was discovering that salt doesn’t just clean—it brings fabrics back to life. Have you ever noticed how over time, your washcloths start looking a little… drab? The colors fade, and they just don’t have that fresh-from-the-store vibe anymore. So, I decided to try adding salt to my laundry routine—half a cup along with my detergent. After just a few washes, I noticed my washcloths looked brighter and more vibrant.

Using salt to help lock in dyes and prevent fabrics from fading has been a small but mighty trick, especially for my colored washcloths. This simple addition to the wash has not only saved me from constantly replacing them but has also helped maintain the cozy, curated vibe of my bathroom. Honestly, it feels like a win every time I see those colors staying vibrant instead of fading away. It’s one of those little tricks that makes a big difference, keeping everything fresh without breaking the bank.

4. Antibacterial Properties (But Don’t Skip the Disinfectant)

Now, here’s where I had a reality check. While salt works wonders for stains and smells, it’s not a complete disinfectant. I reached out to Dr. Rebecca Collins, a microbiologist with over 15 years of experience in environmental health, to get her take. “Salt does have mild antibacterial properties,” she explained, “but it won’t kill all germs.” She made it clear that while salt is great for keeping things fresh between washes, you’ll still need to use stronger agents like bleach if you really need to disinfect.

Natural solutions like salt are great for everyday cleaning, but they’re no replacement for disinfectants when it comes to serious hygiene. I love using salt for regular upkeep, but it was a relief to learn that while it helps with day-to-day freshness, I still need to bring out the heavy-duty cleaners when cleanliness truly matters. Knowing when to switch between the two has made all the difference in keeping my home both fresh and safe.

5. Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective

One of the biggest reasons I’ve embraced salt as part of my laundry routine is how incredibly eco-friendly it is. With so many of us trying to cut down on our use of chemicals and plastics, it’s comforting to know that something as simple as salt can be so effective. Plus, it’s already in your kitchen! No need to buy more expensive products that come with a heavy environmental price tag.

Using salt in your laundry routine also saves money. It’s a simple, affordable solution that gives you peace of mind knowing you’re doing something good for both your home and the planet. There’s something satisfying about finding a solution that not only works but feels like a small way to take care of the world we live in.

The Science Behind It

To make sure I wasn’t falling for old wives’ tales, I took a deep dive into the research to see just how effective basic household items like salt can be for cleaning and maintaining fabrics. Surprisingly, this tried-and-true method has some serious science behind it. Not only does salt help set dyes and prevent colors from fading, but its natural properties also make it an excellent, eco-friendly solution for everyday fabric care. What I thought was just an old-school hack is actually a proven technique that stands the test of time.

Additionally, in the book “Clean My Space” by Melissa Maker, salt is praised for its cleaning power, particularly when combined with other natural agents like vinegar or lemon. Maker’s philosophy centers on using everyday, non-toxic solutions to keep your home clean without harsh chemicals. It turns out, salt is one of her favorite recommendations for brightening and deodorizing fabrics.

Another useful book is "The Naturally Clean Home" by Karyn Siegel-Maier, where salt is highlighted as a versatile cleaner not just for laundry, but also for scrubbing surfaces like sinks and countertops. With these insights, I felt more confident that salt wasn’t just a hack—it’s a trusted solution with a long history of use.

Conclusion: Salt Deserves a Spot in Your Laundry Routine

If you’ve never considered using salt to clean your washcloths, now’s the time. From lifting stubborn stains to neutralizing odors and reviving faded fabrics, salt is a natural, budget-friendly solution that fits seamlessly into any laundry routine. It’s not a total replacement for stronger disinfectants, but for daily care and maintenance, it’s a winner.

So next time you’re doing laundry, sprinkle a little salt in the mix. You might just be surprised by how fresh and clean your washcloths come out—and you’ll feel pretty great knowing you did it with a simple, natural ingredient.

WRITTEN BY:

Amelia Cross

Amelia Cross is a passionate home decor enthusiast with a keen eye for crafting and indoor design. She loves creating cozy, stylish spaces that reflect her creativity and love for DIY projects.

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