The Benefits of Adding Salt to Your Laundry Loads

When I first heard about adding salt to laundry, I rolled my eyes. It sounded like another old wives’ tale—just like cleaning everything with vinegar. But after a bit of research (and a load of laundry), I discovered this trick actually works! Here’s why tossing a little salt in the wash could improve your clothes and your washing machine.

1. Soften Hard Water Naturally

Do your clothes come out stiff or scratchy? Hard water may be the culprit. It’s full of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which cling to fabric and clog up your machine.

Salt helps break down those minerals. By softening the water, it makes your clothes feel smoother and protects your washer from mineral buildup. Instead of buying pricey water softeners, try this low-cost fix.

2. Tackle Stubborn Stains

Salt won’t replace detergent, but it can help loosen tough stains—especially from sweat, grease, or even blood.

Here’s what I did: I sprinkled salt directly on a damp, stained shirt, let it sit, and washed it as usual. The stain faded significantly. It’s an easy pre-treatment that can make a real difference.

3. Stop Limescale Before It Starts

Limescale—the chalky stuff that builds up inside your machine—can reduce efficiency and raise your energy bill. Salt’s gentle abrasive action helps break down these deposits.

Add salt every few weeks to help your washer stay clean and efficient. It’s like a mini detox for your appliance.

4. Boost Your Detergent’s Power

Salt loosens grime, making it easier for detergent to do its job. While it won’t replace your usual soap, it makes a great sidekick when tackling heavy-duty loads.

Next time you’re washing particularly dirty clothes, toss in some salt. You’ll likely notice brighter colors and cleaner fabrics.

5. Eliminate Funky Odors

Musty-smelling laundry? Your washer could be the problem. Detergent residue and trapped moisture often cause those unpleasant smells.

Salt can help absorb odors. Run an empty cycle with hot water and salt to freshen up your machine. It’s a simple, natural deodorizer.

How to Add Salt to Your Laundry

Ready to try it? Follow these quick tips:

Choose the Right Type: Use coarse sea salt or rock salt. Avoid iodized table salt.
Measure Correctly: Use ½ cup per regular load. For tough stains or hard water, go up to 1 cup.
Monthly Maintenance: Run an empty hot water cycle with salt to clean your machine.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Don’t Overdo It: Use salt only when needed—too much could be harsh over time.
Avoid on Delicates: Skip it for silk, lace, or embellished items.
Check Your Manual: Make sure your machine can handle salt before testing it out.

Final Thoughts: Salt Might Be Your Laundry’s Secret Weapon

Salt in the laundry may seem strange, but it’s a smart, inexpensive way to soften water, fight stains, and freshen your machine. It won’t replace detergent, but it sure does help.

So why not give it a shot? A pinch of salt could be just what your laundry routine needs.