Trying to figure out if you should get washing soda or OxiClean? 

You're not alone! Both are powerful cleaners, but they have their own strengths.

In this quick guide, I'll compare washing soda vs OxiClean against a number of different factors, and help you figure out which one is right for your laundry.

#1 Main Active Ingredient

The biggest difference between washing soda and OxiClean is their active ingredient.

Washing soda is basically sodium carbonate, which is a natural mineral. Its chemical formula is Na2CO3, and people have been using it to clean stuff for centuries.

OxiClean, on the other hand, uses something called sodium percarbonate. When you mix it with water, it turns into sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide, releasing oxygen in the process.

#2 What Are They Meant For

Both of these products are for cleaning, but they're not exactly the same. 

Washing soda is mainly used to make your laundry better and soften hard water. 

It helps get rid of tough stains, makes bad smells go away, and makes your regular detergent work even better. It's really good at dealing with grease and oil stains.

Also Read: OxiClean or Clorox 2?

OxiClean is a bit different. It's sold as something that can remove all kinds of stains and clean pretty much anything.

You can use it on clothes, carpets, and even outdoor furniture.

#3 Cleaning Effectiveness

Both washing soda and OxiClean are pretty effective, but they work in different ways.

Washing Soda is really good at cutting through grease and oil because it's very alkaline. 

It's also great at softening water, which can make your whole laundry routine work better, especially if you live somewhere with hard water. 

OxiClean does its thing by releasing oxygen, which makes it really good at getting rid of stains from things like food, wine, and grass. The oxygen breaks down the stain and lifts it away from the fabric or surface. 

People also like OxiClean because it can make white clothes look brighter and bring colors back to life.

#4 Versatility

Both washing soda and OxiClean can be used for different things, but OxiClean probably wins in this category. 

Washing soda is mainly for laundry, but you can use it for other cleaning jobs around the house too. It's good for cleaning kitchen counters, bathroom tiles, and can even help unclog drains if you mix it with vinegar.

OxiClean, though, is marketed as something you can use for all sorts of cleaning. 

Besides laundry, people use it to clean carpets, furniture, outdoor stuff, and even to pre-treat really stubborn stains.

Also Read: Soaking clothes in oxiclean overnight

#5 Cost Comparison

If you're thinking about your wallet, washing soda is usually cheaper than OxiClean.

This is primarily due to the fact that washing soda is a naturally occurring mineral, while OxiClean is a manufactured product. 

OxiClean costs more, but it often comes in these handy pre-measured packets or special formulas for specific cleaning jobs, which some people find really convenient.

For example, a 1 kg box of washing soda might range from $1 to $2, whereas a similar-sized box of OxiClean could cost between $5 and $7. 

Which one is more cost-effective for you really depends on what kind of cleaning you need to do and how often you'll be using it.

#6 Ease Of Use

Both washing soda and OxiClean are pretty easy to use. 

With washing soda, you usually just add it to your laundry along with your regular detergent. You can also make it into a paste to treat stains directly or mix it with water for general cleaning. 

OxiClean is a bit more flexible. You can add it to your laundry, use it to soak really dirty clothes before washing, or mix it with water to clean all sorts of things. 

Some people find OxiClean's pre-measured packets really handy because they don't have to worry about measuring it out themselves.

Also Read: OxiClean Vs Biz

#7 Safety And Environmental Impact

When we're talking about safety and how these products affect the environment, there are a few things to think about.

Washing soda is a natural mineral, so it's generally considered better for the environment. 

But it's very alkaline, which means it can be harsh on your skin and eyes. It's a good idea to wear gloves when you're using it directly. 

OxiClean has some synthetic ingredients, but it's usually safe for most fabrics and surfaces if you use it the way the instructions say. It's biodegradable, and the oxygen it releases eventually turns into water and oxygen. 

But like any cleaning product, you should keep it where kids and pets can't get to it.

Should I Get Washing Soda Or Oxiclean?

Choosing between OxiClean vs Washing Soda really depends on what you need to clean. 

If you're mainly looking for something to make your laundry better and soften hard water, Washing Soda might be the way to go. It's also a good choice if you want something more natural and budget-friendly. 

But if you're dealing with all sorts of stains on different things, not just clothes, OxiClean might be better for you.

It's really good at getting rid of stains from organic stuff and you can use it on more than just laundry.

Bottom Line

Both Washing Soda and OxiClean are great cleaning products, and they each have their strong points.

Washing Soda is awesome as a laundry booster and general cleaner, and it's a more natural and cheaper option. OxiClean, with its oxygen-based formula, is great for getting rid of all sorts of stains on different things.

FAQs

Are Washing Soda And OxiClean The Same?

No, washing soda and OxiClean are not the same. While both are used in laundry, they have different chemical compositions and functions. 

What Is A Substitute For Washing Soda?

Borax, vinegar and baking soda are good substitutes for washing soda.