Most of us toss our laundry into the washer with a scoop of detergent and hope everything comes out looking fresh and bright. In the beginning, clothes often do look renewed after each wash. But over time, even our favorite shirts, towels, and daily essentials start to appear dull or worn no matter how careful we are. What many people don’t realize is that the issue isn’t always the detergent — it’s the buildup that slowly collects in the fabric.

Laundry experts frequently point out that regular detergent alone can struggle against residue left behind by sweat, body oils, deodorant, and even the detergent itself. These substances cling to fibers wash after wash, especially in warm or humid climates. Over months, this buildup causes bright colors to look muted and makes whites appear lightly gray instead of crisp and clean.

That’s why adding one additional household ingredient can help restore freshness without replacing your favorite detergent. It doesn’t act like a miracle cleaner, and it won’t undo years of wear, but it can make each wash cycle more effective and noticeably improve the final result.

The secret is surprisingly simple: use a small amount of white vinegar or baking soda. Both work as gentle boosters that help loosen stubborn residue and break down the films that detergent alone often leaves behind. They also help neutralize odors naturally, which is especially useful for gym clothes, towels, or items that don’t dry quickly.

White vinegar softens fabrics and helps prevent detergent buildup from clinging to fibers. Baking soda, on the other hand, helps balance the pH of the wash water, allowing detergent to do its job more efficiently. Either option works well, and you can choose whichever fits your needs or what you already have at home.

To use them, simply add half a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle, or sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into the drum before loading clothes. Avoid using both at the same time, since they cancel each other out.

The next time you run a load of laundry, try adding one of these natural helpers. You may notice brighter colors, fresher scents, and softer textures, even in clothes that have started to look tired.

Sometimes the smallest adjustments make the biggest difference — turning an ordinary wash into something that helps your favorite outfits look and feel closer to new.