Once a week, you put a capful of detergent in the washing machine and throw your dirty clothes in. It’s such a mundane activity that you probably rarely think about all the chemicals that are in the products you’re using. However, it may be time to break up with your laundry routine and start incorporating more natural ways of doing your weekly load.

Consider bleach alternatives

Bleach is an incredibly harsh chemical, but many people often add it to their laundry without hesitation to remove stains from white clothes. The next time you’re reaching for bleach, consider adding half a cup of baking soda to your laundry instead. If it’s a sunny day, hang your white clothes to dry out in the sun.

Replace the fabric softener with vinegar

We know what you’re thinking: vinegar smells bad, so why would you add it to your laundry? But distilled white vinegar will neutralize odors rather than causing an unwanted scent. Try adding half a cup to the rinse cycle.

Use natural stain remover

Look for brands without dyes, synthetic fragrances, sulfates, or petroleum solvents, and feel good that you’re not harming the environment (or your clothes). Chemical-filled products can mute the colors of your clothes and irritate your skin, so make the switch to avoid these issues!

Ditch the dryer sheets

Instead of dryer sheets, opt for wool dryer balls. You can find them at most grocery stores and online, and they don’t contain the chemicals found in traditional one-use dryer sheets. Or opt to make your own dryer sheets or buy more natural brands.