Refresh and revive musty towels with one kitchen staple — no need for fabric softener - The Mirror US

Chemical cleaning products can be a godsend when it comes to getting your laundry spotless, but they can also be pricey. That's why some folks are turning to more natural methods that can be found at home already.

Cleaning enthusiast and TikTok creator Georgia, better known as Clean with Georgia, has revealed her top secret ingredient for reviving tired towels. She claims this simple addition to your wash cycle will "bring towels back to life".

In a recent video, she cautioned against using regular chemical fabric softeners and opt for alternative natural remedies instead. Her go-to laundry product? White vinegar.

All you need to do is toss a cup of white vinegar into the drum along with your towels and clothes, reports the Express.

White vinegar can be used as a substitute for fabric softener because it helps break down detergent residue, mineral deposits, or any 'body soil' such as sweat, body oils, and dead skin cells that might be clinging to your towels. These things can make fabrics feel stiff and scratchy.

By pouring vinegar into the washing machine dispenser, it works to dissolve all those nasties that can make your clothes uncomfortable. But the benefits of using vinegar in your laundry don't stop there. Vinegar also has the power to brighten and whiten light-colored and white clothes.

It can also eliminate unwanted mildew smells, as well as strong odors like sweat. It can even prevent pet hair and lint from sticking to your clothes.

However, don't get too carried away with the vinegar, as it could backfire if not used judiciously. Too much of this acidic liquid can wreak havoc on fabrics and corrode washing machine components.

Excessive or frequent vinegar use in laundry machines may lead to deteriorated rubber parts and seals.

Jennifer Kaminshi from Affresh appliance told Better Homes & Gardens: "White vinegar is an acid that can break down the rubber gaskets and hoses in your washing machine, leading to costly damage."

The esteemed home magazine highlighted a cautionary note about white vinegar's use in laundry cycles. It specifically advised against combining vinegar with chlorine bleach due to the potential dangers posed by their chemical interaction.

It detailed that when mixed, these substances create a chemical reaction that liberates hazardous fumes. Moreover, white vinegar isn't universally compatible with all fabric types — it's a no-go for elastic materials.

Importantly, white vinegar can compromise the stretchy quality of elastic found in clothes such as activewear.