I started leaving my washing machine’s fabric softener dispenser filled with white vinegar instead of softener for every load for 14 days this July. This is what happened

but I did notice that dark cotton T-shirts and navy leggings looked less dulled by residue after several washes. Fabric softener buildup can leave fabrics looking a bit flat, and this switch seemed to help with that.

On a load of darks washed in cold water, the clothes came out feeling cleaner and less waxy, especially knit shirts and pajama pants. I didn’t see color stripping or fading from using white vinegar in the rinse dispenser during this short test. That said, I still wouldn’t overdo it. More isn’t better here. A modest 1/4 to 1/2 cup did the job.

with very dry indoor air, lots of fleece, microfiber, or clingy synthetic fabrics, you may notice that vinegar softens and freshens without giving quite the same anti-static effect. For my family’s summer laundry, it was fine. In winter, I might feel differently.

9. The washer itself smelled cleaner

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