Why You Should Put 2 Plastic Bottles in Your Washing Machine — A Simple Trick with Surprising Benefits

In the endless search for smarter, greener ways to tackle household chores, one unexpected laundry hack is gaining attention — and it involves something you probably throw away without a second thought: empty plastic bottles.

It might sound unusual at first — putting “trash” in with your clothes — but this clever, low-cost method is turning out to be a game-changer for cleaner, fresher, and smoother laundry.

The Method

The process couldn’t be easier. Take two clean, empty plastic water bottles (16–20 oz works best). Peel off any labels, make sure the caps are screwed on tightly, and confirm they’re completely dry inside. Place them directly into the washing machine drum along with your clothes, add your usual detergent, and run the cycle as you normally would.

As the washer spins, the bottles tumble around with your garments, creating space and movement — much like dryer balls do — but during the wash stage instead.

The Benefits

1. Fewer Wrinkles, Less Tangling
The bottles help keep clothes from knotting together, so you don’t pull out a giant twist of fabric at the end. This means fewer creases, making ironing or steaming quicker — or unnecessary altogether.

2. More Effective Cleaning
Separating the clothes allows water and detergent to reach more fabric surface. This can improve stain removal and help prevent detergent marks, leaving your laundry brighter and fresher.

3. Faster Drying Time
When clothes aren’t wrapped tightly together, they dry more quickly — whether in a dryer or on a line. That means lower energy use and more time saved.

4. Reusing Plastic for Good
Instead of tossing bottles in the bin, this hack gives them a second life. It’s a small but meaningful step toward reducing single-use plastic waste.

5. A Smoother, Quieter Wash
Some people notice the bottles help balance the load, which can reduce banging noises during the spin cycle — perfect if your washer is near a bedroom or living space.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overfill your washing machine so the bottles can move freely.

• Use sturdy bottles that won’t collapse easily.

• Remove clothes promptly after the wash to prevent wrinkles.

• Add ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for softer clothes.

• For drying, pair with wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls for extra fluff.

Small Change, Big Impact

This simple trick is proof that you don’t always need fancy gadgets to improve your laundry game. Two empty bottles can help you get cleaner clothes, use less energy, and even cut down on waste — all in one wash.

Better for your wardrobe, your wallet, and the planet — and all it takes is a couple of plastic bottles.