How can I make a DIY solution of Borax, Calgon & baking soda?

Teresa Washburn
by Teresa Washburn

The project for how to strip laundry with Borax, Calgon & Baking Soda for smelly towels was loaded, now I can't find it


  6 answers
  • DesertRose DesertRose on Jul 29, 2019

    Teresa, I am not sure if this is the one you were looking for, but this one specifically deals with smelly towels. Hope this helps:

    https://www.hometalk.com/diy/clean/fabric/how-to-deal-with-smelly-towels-9392910

  • Sue Corey Sue Corey on Jul 30, 2019

    I use ammonia. A friend w a teenage athlete taught me this trick. Her son would bring home a semester full of offensive smelling items from his gym locker.


    I've used it for my "adventures in yardsaling." When I've found items that reek of basement or nicotine but thought it was worth taking a chance, in the washer with the ammonia they go. I'm happy to report phenomenal results so far.


    The only odor I cannot promise results for would be urine odors.

  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on Jul 31, 2019

    If you rinse your towels with about 1/4 cup of vinegar in the softener cup as opposed to using the softener when doing your laundry you will find that your towels will come out odor free and softer after they are placed in the dryer.

  • Deb K Deb K on Aug 01, 2019

    DIY mix: This homemade mixture has awesome success. Washing Soda, Borax, and Calgon create this concoction for it all at Wal-Mart (in the laundry aisle.) 3 Tablespoons of each for one strip. Also, all components can be used for cleaning and laundry boosters post strip.

  • Just run a load with only vinegar and the smells will be gone.

  • Mogie Mogie on Feb 06, 2024

    • ¼ cup Borax
    • ¼ cup Washing Soda
    • ½ cup Powdered Laundry Detergent
    • Optional: ¼ cup Calgon

    Start by ensuring your tub or basin is clean. Fill it with hot water and then gradually add your ingredients, stirring well to ensure they dissolve fully.

    Calgon acts as a water softener, and while not always necessary, it's a great addition if you have hard water. Hard water can leave mineral deposits on your clothes, affecting their look and feel. If you cannot find Calgon, a splash of vinegar can also help break down the mineral build-up.

    Once your mixture is ready, add in the dirty clothes, ensuring they're fully submerged. Soak the garments for several hours, stirring occasionally. As time progresses, you might be surprised (and perhaps a tad grossed out) to see the water change color. This is the residue, fabric softener, detergent, and grime being stripped away.

    After soaking, rinse your clothes well and run them through a regular washer cycle. The result? Clothes and towels that look, feel, and smell cleaner than they have in ages!