‘Only thing that works’ to whiten brown-stained socks without bleach, vinegar or bicarb(Image: (Image: Getty))

'Only thing that works' to whiten brown-stained socks without bleach, vinegar or bicarb

by · NottinghamshireLive

If your once bright white socks have become a dull grey, there's no need to panic because cleaning aficionados have taken to social media to share their top tips for restoring that fresh look. After a member asked the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips and Tricks Facebook group for help with "very dirty" white socks, an avalanche of advice rolled in favouring high-street products like Vanish and Napisan, but many praised the traditional use of soda crystals as well.

Claire Lowe recommended: "Soak overnight with soda crystals, then wash as normal. I do all my whites like this and everyone always comments how white they are."

Lucy Harris concurred, saying, "Wash them out with soda crystals in the sink before washing. It gets them much cleaner than just washing as it lifts the dirt."

Hazel Kirk also added her technique: "Soaked them in a bowl of cold water to loosen the dirt and then washed with soda crystals."

Donna Thornley gave two options: "Pink stuff Oxi in the wash or soak them in soda crystals and then wash.", reports the Express.

Lastly, Heidi Smith endorsed: "Soda crystals. I've tried everything and soda crystals are the only thing that has worked to get my whites pure white again."

Finally, Debbie Simmonds has suggested a straightforward solution: "Soda crystals and on a temperature. I do mine on a 90 and they come up a treat."

If your socks have seen better days, soda crystals might just be what you need. These aren't bleaching agents but are excellent at shifting laundry stains.

As a powerful in-wash additive that tackles stains and softens water, they can also brighten whites somewhat. They can be mixed with your regular washing detergent or used as a pre-wash treatment.

Using soda crystals in your wash cycle will not only refresh and whiten your clothes; it will clean your washing machine too. The crystals banish buildup and bacteria from the machine, preventing any musty smells from clinging to your freshly laundered items.