DIY Laundry Brightener/Freshener Natural Alternatives to bleach and fabric softeners

Natural living is so much more than just the food or water we consume. Our wellness is greatly effected by our environment and the things we consume or use on a regular basis. From the products we clean our home with, to what we are wearing on our skin, or even breathing in can all enter our bodies, our lungs or even our blood streams. Kinda crazy. But we have options. And I just love a good, simple, DIY. Not the complicated kinds, where you have to be an artist or a scientist of sorts, but the super simple kinda DIYs, with natural ingredients that I can throw together on a moments notice .

In the U.S. our products sold on shelves are typically laden with chemicals that can wreak havoc on our wellness. Many of these chemicals have been linked to cancer, asthma, hormone disruptions, central nervous system disorders, skin and respiratory issues, headaches and so much more. There are thousands of chemicals grandfathered in that have been deemed unsafe and banned in other countries. Among some of the worst offenders are synthetic fragrances and other chemicals found in fabric softeners and dryer sheets.

Keep in mind even so called “green” or “clean” products are often just labeled that way for marketing purposes and can still contain hidden harmful ingredients. You can download the “think dirty” app to scan products for any hidden toxins. I know it can feel overwhelming but every small step we take is powerful. If you would like a few more simple tips Download our free guide HERE for 7 simple steps…

According to The Ackerman Cancer Insitue:

” Fabric softener coats clothes with many harmful chemicals, including one called QUATS (quaternary ammonium compounds) which is linked to asthma. According to the Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics, a leading authority on asthma, QUATS causes one in every ten children in America to have asthma. Another chemical in softener is benzyl acetate. This substance has been linked to pancreatic cancer. The vapors can irritate the eyes and respiratory passages, and it can be absorbed through the skin. Softeners also include A-Terpineol, which is linked with central nervous system (CNS) and respiratory disorders. Fabric softener is harmful to the environment and has the potential to contaminate the air we breathe. Fortunately, there are solutions that will safeguard you and your family and reduce unnecessary exposure to BPA and other chemicals. “

Luckily, we have found some super easy swaps that work for us and that we use in our home instead of bleach or fabric softeners. They only require a few simple ingredients. And most likely you have most of these ingredients already in your home.

DIY Fabric Brightender/Freshener

I love this simple DIY that helps brighten and freshen laundry without all of those crazy ingredients. It’s super easy to make.

Disclaimer: Since I am often asked where to get some of the items I use in my DIY’s, I have included affiliate links to each item listed. I receive a small commission when you purchase through these links at no extra cost to you.

• 1/2 Cup Baking Soda
• 1/2 Cups unscented Epsom Salt
• 30 drops pure essential oils ( I like to use Citrus Fresh, Lavender or Thieves) (check out my favorite oils HERE and how to get started )
• Combine in a glass jar with a lid shake well
• Add 1-2 tablespoons at the beginning of each load. (I use less for dark washes)

To the rinse cycle I add 1/2 cup white vinegar. This will soften clothes, brighten whites and keep dark clothes dark. Vinegar also helps with odors, removes excess soap buildup and reduces lint and pet hairs on clothes.

Hope you enjoy these alternatives as much as we do!