Home . The Secret of Aspirin in Laundry: A Tradition Passed Down

The Secret of Aspirin in Laundry: A Tradition Passed Down

. al · November 22, 2025 · 0 Comment

After my mother-in-law passed away, I took on the responsibility of helping my father-in-law with household chores, including laundry. One thing that caught my attention was his insistence on adding aspirin to the washing machine every time I did the laundry. At first, I thought it was an unusual request, but when I asked him why, he simply replied, “That’s how my wife used to do it.” This piqued my curiosity, and I decided to delve into the science behind this practice. What exactly does aspirin do in the laundry, and is it a useful hack or just an old wives’ tale?

Aspirin and Laundry: A Surprising Connection
Aspirin, scientifically known as acetylsalicylic acid, is widely used as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug. However, its use in laundry is a lesser-known yet effective household trick. The idea of adding aspirin to the wash is not new; many homemakers have used it for years to keep their clothes bright and stain-free. While it may seem odd at first, aspirin can actually be a powerful ally in maintaining clean laundry.

Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which helps break down stains, especially those caused by sweat and bodily oils. Over time, white clothes often develop yellowish stains due to sweat, deodorant residue, and detergent build-up. These stains can be stubborn, making it difficult to restore clothes to their original brightness.

When aspirin dissolves in water, it releases salicylic acid, which penetrates the fabric, loosening and breaking down stain particles. This process helps revive the whiteness of clothes without causing damage. Unlike harsh bleach, aspirin provides a gentler alternative for maintaining fabric quality while effectively combating stains.