We already knew about grandma’s tips for housekeeping, but some of them continue to surprise us.
The latest? Put a few bay leaves in the washing machine. While this may seem strange at first, this tip is winning over more and more households for very specific reasons. Whether it’s reviving colours, eliminating odours or ensuring long-lasting freshness, bay leaves seem to work wonders for impeccable laundry. Let’s dive into the secrets of this natural tip that’s all the rage.
A kitchen ingredient that never ceases to amaze
Bay leaves are not just a spice that adds flavour to stews. They have antibacterial and deodorising properties that make them a great ally for laundry care. Used for centuries in natural medicine, they are also highly valued in the home for their purifying action.
In fact, placing bay leaves in the washing machine drum allows these properties to penetrate every fibre of the fabric. Far from being a passing fad, this tip is based on natural and ecological principles. But how can this simple gesture transform the appearance and freshness of laundry so dramatically? Here are a few clues to help you understand.
Say goodbye to stubborn odours thanks to the power of bay leaves
Bad odours in laundry are often stubborn, especially when they lodge in the fibres of sportswear or sheets. Although detergents are effective, they are not always enough to remove certain residues. This is where bay leaves reveal their full potential:
- A natural purifying effect: bay leaves contain essential oils that act as natural deodorants. It neutralises unpleasant odours and leaves a fresh scent.
- A boost for washing cycles: bay leaves release their antibacterial properties when in contact with hot water, optimising deep cleaning.
- A touch of lasting freshness: unlike artificial fragrances, bay leaves provide a feeling of cleanliness that lasts long after washing.
Used regularly, it becomes an essential ally for impeccable laundry and a natural fresh scent.
An eco-friendly and economical tip for preserving colours
In addition to being a deodoriser, bay leaves have another hidden quality that could change the lives of those who dread frequent washing: they help preserve the colours of clothes. Bay leaves act gently, limiting the discolouration of fabrics, especially bright colours. They are a natural alternative for keeping your laundry bright without resorting to commercial chemicals.
This action results in:
- Revived colours: bay leaves help maintain bright colours, avoiding the dull effect that we dread after several washes.
- Fibre preservation: by acting gently, it does not weaken fabrics, thus prolonging the life of your clothes.
- An eco-friendly gesture: with no added chemicals, this tip is kind to both your clothes and the environment.
By adopting this tip, you can say goodbye to bleaching products and colour fixatives, opting instead for a natural and economical solution.
How to use bay leaves in the washing machine? Instructions
Convinced of the benefits of bay leaves? Here’s how to easily incorporate them into your washing routine for spotless laundry:
- Choose dried bay leaves: they are more effective than fresh leaves because they release their essential oils better when in contact with hot water.
- Place a few leaves in a cloth bag: to prevent them from scattering in the machine, place them in a small bag or cotton sock.
- Use hot water: run the wash cycle at a temperature of 60 degrees so that the bay leaves release all their properties. For delicate fabrics, use a lower temperature and leave the leaves in during the rinse cycle.
Now you’re ready to try out this simple yet surprising tip. Repeating this step regularly will guarantee bright, fresh and long-lasting fragrance in your laundry.
What next? A few tips for even more impeccable laundry
Bay leaves aren’t the only tip that can revolutionise your laundry. To optimise results, here are a few additional recommendations:
- Combine bay leaves with white vinegar: adding a dash of white vinegar to the rinse cycle softens fabrics and complements the deodorising effect of the bay leaves.
- Avoid using too much detergent: Too much detergent can suffocate fabrics and even trap residues. Use a reasonable amount for fresher, lighter-smelling laundry.
- Air your laundry after washing: Dry your laundry in the open air as soon as possible for a natural fragrance and a softer texture.
By incorporating these small habits, each wash becomes a gentle and natural treatment for your clothes.
Fresh, spotless laundry thanks to a natural tip
Adding bay leaves to your washing machine is a simple, economical and eco-friendly tip to transform your laundry routine. Inspired by natural cleaning traditions, this tip not only leaves your laundry clean and soft, but also gives it a fresh scent without chemicals. So why not try it now? With a little bay leaf, your laundry will be spotless, naturally.
