Does Adding Aspirin to Your Laundry Really Work

For decades, a curious piece of household wisdom has circulated among frugal homemakers and vintage laundry enthusiasts: “Add aspirin to your wash to whiten clothes, lift stains, and revive dull fabrics.” It sounds almost too simple to be true, but the tip has persisted across generations.

So, what’s really going on—and does it actually work?

What Aspirin Is Supposed to Do in the Wash

Supporters of this method claim that aspirin can:

Brighten yellowed whites, especially collars, cuffs, and vintage linens

Loosen sweat, deodorant, and body oil stains

Revive faded or tired-looking fabrics

Serve as a gentler alternative to harsh bleach

The reasoning is that aspirin contains acetylsalicylic acid, a mild acid that can help break down residue and subtly brighten textiles. In theory, it acts like a gentle chemical exfoliant for your clothes.

What Science Actually Says

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