10 Laundry Tips from the Past That Actually Work Better Than Modern Ones
These 10 old-school laundry tips from the past are simple, effective, and often beat modern methods for cleaning your clothes.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Before high-tech washing machines and fancy detergents, people relied on clever laundry hacks to get their clothes spotless. These tips, passed down through generations, are still surprisingly effective today. From natural stain removers to methods that save you time and money, these vintage laundry tricks are worth bringing back.
1. Baking Soda for Freshness
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Baking soda has long been used to boost detergent’s cleaning power and freshen clothes. Add a half-cup of baking soda to your laundry load, which will help remove odors and soften fabrics. It’s gentle on fabrics and works wonders without using harsh chemicals. Plus, it’s super affordable and effective at neutralizing tough smells.
2. Soap Nuts for a Natural Clean
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Before synthetic detergents, soap nuts were a go-to for cleaning clothes. These little fruits contain saponins, which act as a natural detergent when soaked in water. They’re gentle on fabrics and skin, making them ideal for sensitive people. Soap nuts are still a great eco-friendly option that works just as well as modern laundry detergents.
3. Lemon Juice for Whitening
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Lemon juice was often used to whiten whites long before bleach was invented. Add a cup of lemon juice to your wash, and it will help brighten whites and remove stains. It’s a natural alternative to harsh bleaches and helps your clothes stay fresh. Plus, it smells much better than chlorine bleach.
4. Vinegar to Remove Stains
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Vinegar has been a secret weapon in laundry rooms for ages. It can help dissolve stains and break down soap residue left behind by detergents. Just add half a cup to your wash cycle, and it will also act as a natural fabric softener. Vinegar also helps to balance the pH level of water, preventing your clothes from becoming stiff.
5. Line Drying to Preserve Fabrics
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Before dryers, people line-dried their clothes to save energy and preserve fabric life. Hang clothes on a clothesline to naturally dry them in the fresh air. This method is gentler on fabrics than machine drying and helps clothes maintain shape and elasticity. Plus, it saves you money and reduces your carbon footprint.
6. Starch for Crispness
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Starch was a popular laundry tip for giving clothes a crisp, fresh appearance. After washing and drying, spray starch onto shirts, pants, or linens to add stiffness and a professional look. This method keeps your clothes looking sharp without needing dry cleaning. It’s an affordable way to get a polished, clean look.
7. Potato Water for Stains
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Before commercial stain removers, potato water was used to tackle tough stains. Simply boil potatoes, and then use the leftover water to soak stained clothes. The natural starch in potato water helps lift stains without damaging fabrics. It’s a gentle, natural way to get rid of even stubborn stains like grease.
8. Rinsing in Cold Water to Set Colors
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Cold water was often used to help set colors in new clothes and prevent fading. It helps preserve the color and keeps your clothes looking fresh for longer. Soaking clothes in cold water after washing helps to lock in the dye and reduce color bleeding. It’s a simple tip that helps clothes look new longer.
9. Ironing Clothes While Damp
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Ironing clothes while slightly damp was a common practice to make ironing easier and more effective. The moisture helps release wrinkles faster, and your clothes come out smoother. It also saves time, as you don’t have to use steam or worry about over-drying your clothes. Plus, it leaves less chance for scorch marks.
10. Cornstarch for Sweater Pills
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Cornstarch isn’t just for baking—it can also be used to prevent sweater pills. Lightly sprinkle cornstarch on your sweaters before washing them to keep them from getting fuzzy. It helps absorb excess moisture and friction, reducing the buildup of pills. This little trick will keep your sweaters looking smooth and new.