Right now, it’s the time to wear white. Wearing white during summer doesn’t absorb the sun like wearing black does, so it naturally keeps your cooler (think of the white houses in Greece that line the shores of the Aegean Sea. They’re not black for a reason!). And while it’s customary to not wear white after Labour Day, now is the time to let those whites shine bright!
However, if you’re anything like me, I tend to ignore silly, outdated rules and wear whatever colour I want whenever. Whether you choose to comply with late 1800s fashion rules or make up your own, one thing is for certain, you surely have white garments hanging around in your closet or folded in your dresser. And because summer does tend to bring those pieces out from hibernation, you want to make sure they’re as bright as can be sans yellowing, stains and a dingy looking appearance! Sure, bleach is a go-to, but here are a few more natural options you can use next time you do a load of whites.
7. Baking Soda For The Win
This household staple might already be found in your kitchen cabinet and or bathroom cupboard. Now, keep a box of it in your laundry room! Add a couple of scoopfuls to your regular detergent, and watch the stains scrub out in no time. Simple!
6. Aspirin Aspirin’ To Help More Than A Headache
Rather strange, yes, but it’s a good one! Start with a bucket of hot water and dissolve six aspirin tablets, which will only take moments. Then, place laundry in and leave overnight before washing.
5. Vinegar and Lemon – The Stain-Fighting Duo
These two will just about anything out! Mix one cup of vinegar with a cup of lemon juice in a bowl. Soak your white clothing in the solution for 30 minutes then throw it in the washing machine with regular detergent.
4. Borax – The White Mineral
Got a glaring stain? Mix Borax with vinegar to create a paste you can directly apply to the affected area. Let is set, then chuck it into the wash for business as usual!
3. Life-Pro Tip: Low Heat Drying
Believe it or not, a high setting could damage your clothes by burning them causing unsightly dark, burn spot and streaky yellowish marks. Take caution, use a lower setting!
2. Dishwasher Detergent For Whiter Days
Yup, it works for your dishes and your clothes! Toss in a few pods while you’re washing your whites and watch how white you whites will get when you pull ‘em out!
1. Say Bye Bye Stains With Hydrogen Peroxide
Way less abrasive than bleach and totally natural, apply directly to the stain and let it soak up. Place in the machine and out goes your spot!
One last note, if you are going to use bleach, use it only on cotton. Did you know that the yellowing of some of your white garments could be because of bleach? Bleach doesn’t get along with all fabrics, and should only be used on cotton. But don’t worry, I just gave you other ways to treat the rest of your garments made from other fabrics! You’re all set to look white hot this summer.
