Adding one household item to your wash can help to soften hard water. Hard water has a high number of dissolved minerals, predominantly magnesium and calcium. 

Water is naturally soft when it falls from the sky and gains its hardness after coming into contact with the ground. The water hardness levels in the southeast and south coast of England, London, and Ireland are high. The north and southwest of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales, in general, have soft water. Washing clothes in hard water can reduce the effectiveness of detergents, leaving behind residue and leading to stiff, dull, and potentially damaged fabrics. It can also cause limescale buildup in machines, which can block valves and lead to longer cleaning times and higher household bills.

A 2022 study found that adults in hard water areas were more likely to have eczema. Hard water can cause dryness, irritation, and damage to skin and hair. 

The minerals in hard water react with soap and shampoo, creating a residue that can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and potential exacerbation of conditions like eczema. Similarly, hard water can leave hair feeling dull, dry, and brittle, and may also affect hair colour. 

Water ioniser sellers, Chanson, issued 10 natural ways to soften water, with one easy way being to use a household item - baking soda. Due to its alkaline properties, it can neutralise the minerals, making it effective and affordable.

Add one teaspoon of baking soda to a gallon of water, stir well, and let it sit for a few hours before use. Overuse can lead to excessive alkalinity, so it's important to use it sparingly.

Another household object you can use to soften hard water is lemon juice. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into a gallon of water, mix well, and allow it to stand for a few hours. This not only softens water but also adds a fresh scent and slight flavour, making it pleasant for drinking.

Boiling is one of the simplest ways to soften hard water. When water is boiled, the heat causes calcium and magnesium ions to precipitate out, reducing the hardness. 

Simply bring a pot of water to a boil and let it cool. The minerals will settle at the bottom, and you can pour the softened water into another container, leaving the sediment behind.

Carbon filters are a good way to soften water with little effort. They can come in filtration jugs or be attached to taps and shower heads to remove chlorine and organic compounds.