9 Best Essential Oils To Use in Your Laundry

Imagine pulling your laundry from the dryer, not just clean but naturally infused with the soothing aroma of a serene forest or a vibrant citrus grove. At Onsen, we champion the simple, the functional, and the natural. That's why we're diving into the refreshing world of essential oils for laundry. 

In this article, you'll discover the best essential oils to infuse your laundry with delightful, natural fragrances. We’ll also look at the benefits they bring beyond just a pleasant smell and practical tips on using them effectively. 

So, if you're hoping to bring a touch of nature's magic into your daily routine, keep reading.

Why Use Essential Oils in Your Laundry?

Why settle for the usual when you can elevate the mundane? Incorporating essential oils into your laundry routine does more than just leave your clothes smelling fresh. 

It's a gentle, eco-friendly way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy with every wear. Unlike conventional fabric softeners that can contain harsh chemicals, essential oils offer a natural alternative that respects both your skin and the planet. 

Plus, they bring a mindful aspect to your laundry, turning an ordinary task into a sensory experience that soothes and revitalizes. It's about making the simple acts of daily life a little more special, a little more thoughtful. 

What Are the Best Essential Oils To Use in Your Laundry?

Now that you're up to speed on the refreshing twist essential oils can bring to your laundry routine, you might be curious about which ones to pick. Let’s explore a few favorites that are more than just a treat for the nose — they’re also gentle on your fabrics and kind to your skin.

1. Lavender - The Soothing Staple

Everyone loves lavender for its ability to coax us into relaxation, and it's just as wonderful in your wash. Picture ending a long day by sinking into sheets that have been washed with a hint of lavender — pure bliss, right? It’s also gentle enough for baby clothes, making everything it touches just a bit cozier.

2. Lemon - Citrusy Clean

Lemon isn't only good for a kitchen's hard surfaces — it works wonders on tough laundry odors, too. A few drops of lemon oil in your load can help tackle everything from food stains to sweaty workout gear, leaving your clothes with that sun-dried citrus scent. It's like a burst of sunshine on a busy day, fresh and uplifting.

3. Tea Tree - The Fresh Defender

Tea tree oil is your go-to for laundry that needs a bit more attention. Think towels that have seen too many gym sessions or the kids’ sports kits — tea tree oil handles them all with its naturally antimicrobial prowess. Plus, if you’re looking for a way to ease allergens out of your fabrics, tea tree does the trick without a hitch.

4. Eucalyptus - Breezy and Bold

Eucalyptus oil has a crisp, sharp aroma that does wonders for your laundry, especially when you’re looking to strip away the stress of the day. It’s fantastic for bedding and bath towels, giving that cool, refreshing feel as if you’ve just stepped into a spa. 

And if you have allergies or simply crave that extra punch of freshness, eucalyptus is your friend, making every load of laundry feel like a breath of fresh air.

5. Peppermint - Cool and Invigorating

Peppermint oil in your laundry? Yes, please! This oil doesn't just smell amazing — it energizes your senses and can give a much-needed pep to your step. 

It’s especially handy for those early mornings when you pull on a peppermint-fresh shirt and feel ready to tackle the day. Great for activewear, the minty freshness also helps in keeping your workout clothes from becoming stale.

6. Rosemary - Naturally Nostalgic

Rosemary is more than just a kitchen favorite. Its herbal, woodsy scent makes laundry feel like a warm, comforting embrace. 

It’s particularly good for woolens and blankets, infusing them with a smell that’s reminiscent of a cozy, fireside evening. As a bonus, rosemary’s natural properties help keep your fabrics looking sharp and feeling soft, proving that a little nostalgia goes a long way in the wash.

7. Orange - Zesty and Bright

Orange essential oil brings a vibrant, cheerful zest to your laundry, perfect for chasing away any lingering gloom from your clothes. Its naturally sweet, citrusy notes turn the chore of laundry into a more pleasant, energizing experience. Ideal for brightening up white fabrics and refreshing your everyday wear, orange oil leaves a subtly sweet trace that lifts your spirits.

8. Bergamot - Sophisticated and Soothing

Bergamot oil, with its unique floral-citrus scent, offers a sophisticated twist to your laundry routine. It's particularly suited for those pieces you want to give a special touch — think guest linens or your favorite Waffle Bath Robe. Besides its charming scent, bergamot is great for those with sensitive skin, providing a soothing feel without the harshness of chemicals.

9. Ylang Ylang - Exotic and Relaxing

For a touch of the exotic, ylang ylang essential oil transforms your laundry with its deep, floral aroma that’s both soothing and uplifting. It’s wonderful for sheets and pillowcases, where its long-lasting fragrance can help promote a restful night’s sleep. 

Ylang ylang not only leaves your fabrics smelling luxurious but also imparts a sense of relaxation throughout your home. What’s not to love?

How Can You Maximize the Benefits of Essential Oils in Your Laundry?

Ready to take your freshly scented laundry to the next level? Here are some practical tips to keep in mind. 

Choose the Right Oil for the Right Task

Not all essential oils work the same way for every type of laundry. For instance, lavender is fantastic for bedding because of its soothing properties, while lemon oil might be better for kitchen towels due to its grease-cutting prowess. Matching the oil to the task not only optimizes your results but also makes your laundry routine smarter.

Use the Correct Amount

When it comes to essential oils, a little goes a long way. Generally, just a few drops added to your washing machine’s rinse cycle or a damp washcloth thrown in the dryer will suffice. Overdoing it can lead to residues on your clothes and might overwhelm the gentle scents you’re aiming for.

Consider Your Fabrics

While essential oils are natural, some fabrics might react differently to different oils. For delicate items or those that come into direct contact with your skin (think undergarments), opt for milder oils like bergamot or tea tree. Meanwhile, tougher, more durable fabrics like your favorite Waffle Bath Sheets can handle stronger scents like eucalyptus or peppermint.

Refresh Between Washes

To extend the freshness of your laundry without washing it every time, lightly spritz your clothes or linens with a diluted essential oil-water mixture. This is especially handy for items like bathrobes and bath linens that may not need washing after every single use but could benefit from a little refreshing.

A Final Word

There you have it — nine standout essential oils that revitalize your laundry and reinvent the way you experience freshness. From the invigorating zest of lemon to the soothing caress of lavender, each scent offers an effortless blend of nature's best directly into the fabric of your daily life. 

At Onsen, we understand that these little enhancements make ordinary moments feel extraordinary. Why not let the natural charm of essential oils elevate your every day while our range of thoughtfully designed bathroom essentials complements your refreshed, aromatic linens? 

Dive into a sensory experience with Onsen, where each detail is curated to enrich your home and uplift your spirit. Start transforming your routines today — after all, every day deserves a touch of nature’s magic!

Sources:

How Lavender Can Improve Your Health | Cleveland Clinic

Tea tree oil | Mayo Clinic

Peppermint Oil | NCCIH

Relaxing effect of ylang ylang oil on humans | PMC