SOAPNUTS
(washnuts/soapberry)
250g Soapnuts + Cotton Bag + Full Instructions
Great Value £3.50
NO ODOUR - NO CHEMICALS - Just soft, clean clothes
The really natural and ecological way to wash clothes
Ideal for babies and people with sensitive skin or allergies such as eczema and psoriasis
Soapnuts grow on trees in India and Nepal, and have been used for thousands of years for washing both body and clothes. Soapnuts contain saponins, which when released into the washing water, act as a natural odourless cleansing agent.
Soap nuts are environmentally friendly, chemical free, biodegradable and ecological. 250g of Soapnuts is enough for over 50 loads of washing. Simply put 3-7 half shells into the cotton bag provided. This bag is then placed in the washing machine with the clothes. Shells may be re-used up to 5 times. Your washing will be soft, clean and chemical free. No need for softeners. The shells have no odour. If you want fragrant laundry, just add a few drops of essential oil to the softener drawer. A full instruction leaflet is included with your order.
In Ayurvedic medicine, Soapnuts are used as a treatment for eczema and psoriasis, and removing freckles. They are a popular ingredient for shampoos and cleansers. Due to their gentle insecticidal properties, soapnuts are traditionally used for removing headlice.
HANDWASH
Put 10 to 12 shells in 1 litre of boiling water and simmer for 10 minutes. This solution may be kept in the fridge for several days.
Soft Water Areas - use 250ml of soapnut solution
Hard Water Areas - use 400ml of soapnut solution
Soapnuts are ideal for washing delicate fabrics, such as silk and wool, leaving them soft and clean.
MACHINE WASH
Soapnuts are ideally used at 40 C, although they can be used from 30 to 95 C. The recommended dosage depends on whether you live in an area with soft or hard water (see chart). Softener is not required. If you require fragrant laundry, add a few drops of essential oil into the softener drawer . Traditional stain remover may be required for very dirty clothes.
DOSAGE |
Quantity of Half Shells Required |
|
Temperature |
Soft Water |
Hard Water |
30 - 40 Celsius |
5 |
6 to 7 |
60 - 95 Celsius |
3 |
4 to 5 |
Just put 3 shells in bottom of cutlery holder, and white vinegar in the rinse dispenser. However, not good on really hard baked food - such as casserole dishes. Using vinegar will also help to keep your dishwasher free from limescale.
Due to lack of chemicals, soapnut water can be safely used to clean throughout the house. Put 10 to 12 shells in 1 litre of boiling water and simmer for 10 minutes. This solution may be kept in the fridge for several days. For floor cleaning, lemon essential oil or lemon juice can be added for its fragrance and antiseptic qualities.
Wash pets fur and skin with a mild solution to remove parasites.
In India, jewellers use soapnuts to remove tarnish from silver. Soak in soapnut water, rub, rinse and polish.
