While baking powder and baking soda are both leavening agents used in baking, they have different compositions and functions, and they are not interchangeable when it comes to laundry detergent substitutes.
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a common household product that can be used as a laundry detergent substitute. It is known for its ability to help remove odors and stains, soften water, and act as a gentle abrasive cleaner. When added to your laundry, baking soda can enhance the effectiveness of your regular detergent and contribute to cleaner and fresher-smelling clothes.
On the other hand, baking powder contains baking soda along with acidic ingredients like cream of tartar. The main purpose of baking powder is to create carbon dioxide gas and make baked goods rise. It does not have the same cleaning properties as baking soda and is not suitable as a laundry detergent substitute.
If you're looking for a laundry detergent substitute, stick to using baking soda. You can add about half a cup of baking soda to your regular detergent to boost its cleaning power. Additionally, baking soda is relatively gentle on fabrics, making it a suitable option for many laundry tasks. However, for heavily soiled or stained laundry, it's best to use a dedicated laundry detergent designed for that purpose.