Laundry detergent bottles are a household staple—but what if the way we use them is all wrong? A growing number of eco-conscious consumers and cleaning experts suggest that simple tweaks in how we handle detergent bottles can drastically reduce waste, save money, and even make clothes cleaner. One viral tip, popularly known as “Nana’s hack with baking soda,” claims that combining a small amount of baking soda with diluted detergent inside the bottle boosts cleaning power while cutting plastic waste—a clever personal trick that’s been making waves online.

The Problem with Traditional Detergent Use

According to The New York Times, most people use two to three times more detergent than necessary, which not only wastes product but also makes washing machines less efficient by leaving behind residue (The New York Times, 2023). Overuse of detergent can lead to sticky clothes, clogged machine parts, and higher environmental impact due to excess chemicals released into waterways. Studies from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) show that conventional detergent bottles contribute significantly to plastic pollution, with millions ending up in landfills each year.

The Science Behind “Nana’s Hack”

The viral trick—mixing leftover detergent with a bit of baking soda and water—has a scientific basis. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, acts as a natural deodorizer and softener. When combined with detergent, it helps neutralize odors and reduce the need for large detergent doses. Chemists from Good Housekeeping Institute note that this combination can also balance pH levels in the wash, allowing for more effective stain removal without damaging fabrics (Good Housekeeping, 2024). While it’s not a replacement for detergent, it enhances performance and stretches the life of each bottle.

How to Do It Correctly

To apply this method, fill the detergent bottle one-third full with warm water after it’s nearly empty. Add one tablespoon of baking soda, then shake gently to dissolve the residue. The solution can be poured directly into the washing machine as a booster for small or lightly soiled loads. For larger loads, you can supplement with a small amount of concentrated detergent. The idea isn’t just to reuse the plastic bottle—it’s to extract every bit of value from what’s already inside.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

A report from National Geographic highlights that reusing and repurposing plastic packaging can reduce household plastic waste by up to 30% annually (National Geographic, 2024). By adopting simple habits like this hack, households could save roughly 10–15 detergent bottles per year. Financially, it can amount to over $50 in savings, while collectively lowering chemical runoff and carbon emissions associated with plastic production.

What Experts Say

Environmental scientist Dr. Rachel Cline from The Guardian explains that small-scale household actions “have a cumulative effect” when adopted by millions of people. “Even a simple practice like rinsing and reusing a detergent bottle helps reduce microplastic shedding and consumption,” she said (The Guardian, 2024). Meanwhile, consumer behavior analysts at Forbes note a growing trend toward “micro-sustainability”—everyday acts that make eco-conscious living more accessible without big lifestyle changes.

What Doesn’t Work

Despite its benefits, experts warn against adding acidic agents like vinegar directly into the detergent bottle, as it can destabilize certain surfactants in liquid detergents and reduce cleaning efficiency. Additionally, overusing baking soda may create residue buildup in high-efficiency (HE) washing machines. Moderation is key.

Final Thoughts

“Nana’s hack with baking soda” may have started as a humble household trick, but it’s a reminder that sustainability often begins with small, thoughtful changes. By understanding the chemistry behind cleaning and rethinking how we use packaging, anyone can make laundry day both eco-friendly and cost-effective. The next time your detergent bottle runs low, don’t throw it away—turn it into your next cleaning solution.

(Sources: The New York Times, Good Housekeeping Institute, EPA, National Geographic, The Guardian, Forbes, 2023–2024)