Laundry to Reduce Clothing Size - Answers to the Most Common Questions

Using Oxy Power oxygen-based bleach and stain remover: soak the laundry in HOT water in which you have previously dissolved 1–2 tablespoons of Oxy Power bleach for at least a few hours, or even overnight. Then wash as usual.Using washing soda: Soak the laundry, as described above, in HOT water with two tablespoons of washing soda, for at least 30 minutes before washing; alternatively, you can make a paste from washing soda (i.e., mix just enough water with washing soda in a small bowl to form a paste) and apply it directly to the stain, then wash as usual. Using Odori’s stubborn stain remover: first rinse the stain with water, then apply the remover to it. After 15 minutes, scrub the stain thoroughly and let the remover sit for another 15 minutes, then wash as usual. In mid-March, we at Rifuzl sent out a message to the universe that we’re open to any questions, comments, and feedback regarding laundry using more eco-friendly products and methods. From all the responses, we selected the three most pressing topics—and explored them in detail; at the very end, you can also read a quick Q&A. Let’s get started!

1. Using fabric softener—YES or NO?

In a nutshell—using fabric softener isn’t strictly necessary. Our team is split on this—half of us use fabric softener, while the other half simply skip it. And we’re all happy with the results. Still, I rolled up my sleeves and dove into the depths of the internet to dig up some more scientifically backed information on using fabric softener or its alternatives—we Rifuzlarki don’t do anything halfway?!

How does laundry detergent work?

Simply put, detergent works by loosening the dirt in clothes when it comes into contact with water, and the water and physical friction created by the drum’s rotation then easily rinse away all that grime. So the role of detergent is exclusively to CLEAN.?

How do traditional fabric softeners work, and how do citric acid and spirit vinegar work?

The main role of both is to soften the laundry while also extending the lifespan of the clothes (but be careful—this does not apply to all types of clothing (see the table below)). However, they do this in two different ways:Traditional fabric softeners contain substances that form a film over the fibers of the clothing, making them soft and preventing tearing, pilling, or color fading. On the other hand, citric acid and acetic acid (both are equally effective) remove detergent and other substances that build up on the fibers, while also softening the water—which also helps keep clothes in their original condition for as long as possible.

To make a citric acid solution, I suggest mixing 1 L of water with 150 g of citric acid; the dosage is the same as for acetic acid: between 50 and 100 mL per drum.

So, a classic fabric softener adds, while citric acid and vinegar remove. Isn’t it interesting how we achieve a similar effect with a completely opposite approach? Even though both work toward the same goal, they still differ slightly. Below, you can see a comparison of the two options, and I’ve also included an option for washing without fabric softener: