Fill a bathtub, utility sink, or large bin with hot water and add one part borax, one part washing soda, and two parts laundry detergent (for a bathtub, around 1/4 cup borax, 1/4 cup washing soda, and 1/2 cup detergent). Stir to dissolve, submerge the laundry completely, and let it soak four to five hours or until the water cools, stirring occasionally. Drain the tub, then run the laundry through the washing machine on a rinse cycle with no detergent. Colorful or delicate linens (lace, embroidery) aren't good candidates since dyes can run, and clothing generally shouldn't be stripped either; always check care labels first since the method needs hot water throughout.
How to Deep-Clean Laundry With Laundry Stripping

Towels that feel less absorbent than they used to, or sheets that look a little dingy, are good candidates for laundry stripping — a deep soak that pulls out the grime a normal wash cycle leaves behind.
How to Strip Laundry
Got a handy tip of your own?
Reply and let us know, we love hearing your tips.
This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive: 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →