Hand-washa few critical items using a multitude of products that are safe for the sink.

If your hamper is overflowing, be more careful with choosing a laundry detergent alternative.

You’ll get enough product to do an average-sized load of essentials.

laundry detergent substitutes

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These products work as adetergent boosterto clean clothes.

Place the dry product directly in the washer drum before adding detergent, soiled clothes, and water.

Pretreat stains before washing and use the warmest water temperature recommended for the garments.

laundry detergent alternatives

The Spruce

Add the powder to the empty washer drum before adding the dirty laundry and water.

The ingredients may also leave residue on the fabrics that can irritate the skin.

If you accidently add other detergents or shampoos, stop the cycle immediately to reduce the overflow of suds.

rinsing out the laundry detergent bottle

The Spruce / Michele Lee

Run a drain and spin cycle to remove suds.

Then run a hot water rinse cycle with 2 cups of white distilled vinegar.

Continue running rinse cycles until the suds are cleared out of the washer.

scooping baking soda into the washer

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The cleaners also contain ingredients that can cause color loss and spotting on fabrics.

Household cleaners can also contain sudsing ingredients that will damage a high-efficiency washing machine.

Remove the smell of ammonia and household cleaners by running a rinse cycle.

scoop of oxygen bleach

The Spruce / Michele Lee

Always add the alternative cleaner to the water and stir well before adding clothes.

Do not pour the cleaner directly on the fabrics to prevent spotting.

Use Shampoo

When hand-washing clothes, choose a gentle shampoo like baby shampoo.

homemade detergent ingredients

The Spruce / Michele Lee

Do not use a combination shampoo and conditioner or one that tints hair.

Use only 1 teaspoon for a bathroom sink full of water.

Use more for a larger sink or several items.

using shampoo to hand wash a garment

The Spruce / Michele Lee

Use Dishwashing Liquid

In a real pinch, reach for dishwashing liquid.

Use the smallest amount possible and double-check that the formula does not contain bleaching agents.

you’re able to also use baking soda and water as a presoak.

using a bar of soap to cleanse a garment

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Washing clothes with only water may not get them thoroughly clean.

The washer’s agitation takes care of easy-to-remove dirt, but it won’t remove stains and heavy odors.

Use a laundry detergent to break down stains and soiling.

body wash next to a basin of water

​The Spruce / Michele Lee

Dish soaps tackle grease and grime on hard surfaces, not fabrics.

It can harm your washing machine and potentially cause skin irritation.

Laundry detergents have ingredients that protect delicate fabrics, which dish soaps lack.

using dishwashing liquid to hand wash a garment

​The Spruce / Michele Lee

Use shampoo to hand-wash your clothes but not as a detergent in a washing machine.

In an emergency, use a drop of shampoo because more than that may harm your washing machine.

How to Use Dish Soap for Laundry Stains.Dawn.