A strange-sounding but increasingly popular laundry hack is making waves online: tossing two empty plastic bottles into your washing machine. Though it may seem odd at first, thousands of social media users are swearing by the results, claiming cleaner clothes, less pet hair, and better washing performance — all without spending extra money on fancy gadgets.

The method is surprisingly simple. You take two empty plastic water bottles, remove the labels and caps, and toss them in with your laundry. As the machine runs, the bottles bounce around inside the drum. This added movement increases agitation, which is a crucial factor in how washing machines remove dirt, grime, and residue from clothing.

Supporters of the hack say it mimics the action of store-bought laundry balls, which are designed to improve washing efficiency by scrubbing clothes as they tumble. The bottles can help dislodge stuck pet hair, boost stain removal, and even improve detergent circulation throughout the load. It’s a low-cost, DIY method that seems to deliver results — at least anecdotally.

Advocates report several benefits: noticeably cleaner clothes, less lint and pet hair, and improved washing of athletic wear, work clothes, and bedding. Some users have even taken the trend further by poking holes in the bottles to create mini water jets, turning them into makeshift scrubbing tools. Though not scientifically tested, many say the difference is visible after just one wash.

If you’re curious about trying the trick, there are a few safety tips to follow. Always use soft plastic bottles with no caps — capped bottles can burst from pressure buildup. Avoid using rigid plastic or bottles with sharp edges that could damage your machine or clothes. Also, don’t overfill the washer; the bottles need space to move freely for the hack to work. Finally, skip this method on delicate or hand-wash cycles, where agitation is already minimized.

In the end, while this hack hasn’t been proven by science, it’s earned a loyal following from people who’ve tested it firsthand. It’s a harmless, budget-friendly experiment that could help improve your laundry routine — just remember to peel off the labels before you hit start.