Essential Oils in the Washing Machine: Natural Scent for Your Laundry or Hidden Risk?

Using essential oils in your laundry has become a popular trend for those seeking a natural alternative to synthetic fragrances. The idea of fresh, clean clothes that also smell like lavender or eucalyptus is appealing—but is it safe? Can you really put essential oil in the washing machine, and will it damage your appliance?

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of laundry with essential oils, how to use them safely, and whether your washing machine is at risk.

Why Add Essential Oils to Laundry?

Many commercial laundry detergents and fabric softeners contain synthetic fragrances, which can irritate sensitive skin, trigger allergies, or harm the environment. Essential oils offer a plant-based, chemical-free alternative that can:

• Leave clothes smelling fresh and clean

• Add natural antibacterial or antifungal benefits

• Support mood and well-being with aromatherapy

• Reduce the need for artificial fragrance boosters

Can You Put Essential Oil in the Washing Machine?

Yes, but with caution.
Essential oils are highly concentrated and not water-soluble. Adding them incorrectly or in large amounts can pose risks to your washing machine, clothes, and safety.

Let’s break it down.

Do Essential Oils Damage Washing Machines?

In their pure form, essential oils can damage rubber seals, hoses, and plastic components over time. This is especially true if the oils are added directly to the drum or detergent drawer undiluted.

Risks include:

• Rubber degradation

• Residue buildup in hoses or filters

• Staining or oil spots on clothing

• Fire hazard if used in dryers improperly (more below)

The solution: Always dilute essential oils properly and use a delivery method that won’t leave residue behind.

How to Use Essential Oils in Laundry (Safely)

Here are the safest and most effective ways to enjoy essential oils in your washing machine:

1. Add Essential Oils to Wool Dryer Balls

This is the safest and most effective method for scenting laundry with essential oils.

• Add 3–5 drops of essential oil to a wool dryer ball

• Let it absorb for 10–15 minutes before tossing into the dryer

• Avoid adding oils directly to clothing or dryer drum

Caution: Only use dryer balls on low heat settings to reduce fire risk.

2. Pre-Mix in a Laundry Booster

Make a simple laundry booster by mixing:

• 1 cup baking soda or Epsom salt

• 20–30 drops of essential oil

• Store in a jar and add 1–2 tablespoons to the wash cycle

This method disperses the oil evenly and prevents direct contact with machine parts.

3. Add to Homemade Laundry Detergent

If you make your own detergent (e.g., with washing soda, borax, and castile soap), you can add essential oils into the mix.

Recommended oils: Lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, tea tree, rosemary, orange

4. Add Oils to the Rinse Cycle (Diluted)

You can add essential oils during the rinse cycle—but only if they’re diluted in vinegar or water.

How to:

• Mix 10–15 drops essential oil with 1/4 cup white vinegar

• Pour into the fabric softener compartment

• Helps soften fabrics and leave a subtle scent

Essential Oils to Use in Laundry

Some oils are especially well-suited for laundry use because of their fresh scent and antimicrobial properties.

• Lavender – Calming, floral, ideal for bed linens

• Lemon – Bright, citrusy, great for neutralizing odors

• Tea Tree – Antifungal and antibacterial, great for sweaty gym clothes

• Eucalyptus – Refreshing and decongesting

• Peppermint – Energizing and odor-fighting

• Sweet Orange – Uplifting and kid-friendly

What NOT to Do

• Do not pour undiluted essential oil directly into the drum or detergent tray

• Do not add essential oils to dryer loads without using wool dryer balls

• Do not use essential oils with high flash points (like clove) in the dryer

• Do not expect essential oils to scent laundry as strongly as synthetic fragrances—natural oils are lighter and subtler

Final Verdict: Are Essential Oils Safe in the Washing Machine?

Yes—if used correctly.
When properly diluted or combined with a carrier (like vinegar, baking soda, or wool dryer balls), essential oils can safely be used in the washing machine and dryer. They add a fresh, natural scent and may offer mild antibacterial benefits.

However, adding essential oils directly or in excess can damage machine components, stain clothing, or create safety risks. A little goes a long way, and proper method matters.

Final Thoughts

Laundry with essential oils is a wonderful way to bring aromatherapy into your everyday life—adding freshness, calm, or energy to your clothes without harmful chemicals. Just be mindful of how you use them: dilute properly, avoid direct contact with plastic or rubber parts, and enjoy the benefits of a naturally scented wardrobe.