Washing Soda

Sodium carbonate. Laundry booster that softens water and removes grease. Key ingredient in stripping.

Washing soda (sodium carbonate, soda ash) is a laundry booster that softens water and helps remove grease and buildup.

Not Baking Soda

Washing Soda Baking Soda
Sodium carbonate Sodium bicarbonate
Stronger alkaline Milder
Laundry cleaning Multiple uses
Can irritate skin Gentle

Don't substitute baking soda - it's not as effective for stripping.

Laundry Uses

  • Water softening
  • Grease removal
  • Boosting detergent
  • Laundry stripping

In Towel Stripping

Combined with borax and detergent:

  • 1/4 cup washing soda
  • 1/4 cup borax
  • 1/2 cup detergent

The combination releases accumulated residue.

Where to Find

  • Laundry aisle (Arm & Hammer brand common)
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Online
  • Hardware stores

Handling

  • Alkaline - can irritate skin
  • Wear gloves for extended contact
  • Keep dry (absorbs moisture)
  • Don't inhale dust

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