Vinegar is the key to whiter whites and softer towels, but most use it wrong. Here’s the right way to use it

For Softer Towels

Skip commercial fabric softener entirely

Add ½ cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle

Wash towels in warm or hot water (check care labels)

Fabric softeners coat towels with residue that makes them less absorbent. Vinegar removes that buildup, restoring softness and absorbency at the same time.

For Odor Removal

Vinegar is especially effective for:

Musty towels

Sweat-smelling clothes

Athletic wear

Add 1 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle and let clothes air-dry if possible. Odors fade as the vinegar evaporates.

What Vinegar Should Not Be Used For

While vinegar is useful, it isn’t universal.