I stopped using bleach a long time ago to whiten my families clothes and towels.  The only downside was my whites were not “white” any more, they were dingy.  Below are a few natural products I use (at different times) to brighten my whites without the harsh effects of bleach.  To find which of these products works best for your laundry routine, I suggest testing each method.

• Baking Soda – Baking soda is commonly found in many products used for whitening such as tooth paste and even some washing powders.  It’s also a natural softener and freshener. Add a 1/2 cup or baking soda to your wash (okay to use in high efficiency washers) along with your regular washing powder or liquid

• Hydrogen Peroxide – Did you know that hydrogen peroxide is in fact a a non-chrolrine bleach?  Add a 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide to your regular laundry detergent.

• Lemon Juice – Lemons are a natural brightener and freshener.  Add a 1/2 cup of lemon juice to your regular laundry detergent.

• Distilled White Vinegar – Vinegar whitens, freshens and softens.  If you’re worried about the vinegar smell don’t, the smell goes away as the clothes dry. Add 1 cup of vinegar to your normal laundry wash.