Making your own detergent is an alternative to our detergent laundry sheets. Not for everyone, but if you really want to reduce your footprint and have the time, this is an excellent option! 😊
A simple step in that direction is making your own detergent with natural ingredients. In this blog post, we share our own recipe for homemade detergent using soap nuts, chestnuts, and ivy, which not only keeps your clothes fresh and clean but also contributes to a greener planet.
But first, the 3 options for making your own detergent:
Option 1: Soap Nuts - Natural Soap Power
Soap nuts, from the Sapindus tree, are rich in saponin, a natural soap-like substance. To make the most of their cleaning properties, cut the soap nuts in half and use about 15-20 halves for the detergent.
Option 2: Chestnuts - Sustainable Cleaning
Chestnuts add to the cleaning power of the detergent. The shells of chestnuts contain saponin and add a sustainable element to your homemade detergent. Cut about 10-15 chestnuts into small pieces to utilise their cleaning properties.
Option 3: Ivy - Fresh Scent and Antibacterial Power
Ivy leaves not only add a pleasant scent to your detergent but also have antibacterial properties. Rinse a handful of ivy leaves thoroughly and add them to the boiling mixture to give your detergent a fresh and hygienic dimension.
Try using these natural ingredients separately and discover how they work together to create an effective homemade detergent.
The recipe for your own detergent combined with these natural ingredients for extra cleaning power and scent:
Ingredients:
- Soap nuts: These fruits from the Sapindus tree contain saponin, a natural soap-like substance.
- Chestnuts: The shells of chestnuts contain saponin and have cleaning properties.
- Ivy: The leaves of the ivy plant have antibacterial properties and add a pleasant scent to your detergent.
Recipe:
Step 1: Gather the ingredients
- 15-20 soap nuts
- 10-15 chestnuts (including shells)
- A handful of ivy leaves
- 2 litres of water
Step 2: Prepare the ingredients
- Wash the soap nuts thoroughly and cut them in half.
- Cut the chestnuts into small pieces.
- Rinse the ivy leaves.
Step 3: Boil the ingredients. Put the soap nuts, chestnuts, and ivy leaves in a large pan and add 2 litres of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for about 30-45 minutes.
Step 4: Strain and store. After simmering, strain the mixture to separate the liquid from the solids. Pour the liquid detergent into an empty bottle or container.
Use: Use about half a cup of this homemade detergent per wash. You will notice your clothes smell fresh and are thoroughly cleaned, without the harmful chemicals often found in commercial detergents.
Tip: Add some lemon juice for extra freshness.
Benefits:
- Eco-friendly: Using natural ingredients reduces environmental impact.
- Budget-friendly: Homemade detergent is often cheaper than ready-made options.
- Health: Avoid chemicals and allergens found in commercial detergents.
Conclusion: Making your own detergent with soap nuts, chestnuts, and ivy is not only simple but also a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Try this recipe and discover the benefits of a natural cleaning agent for your clothes and the environment.
Did you know our laundry sheets are plant-based? Not as eco-friendly as this recipe but sustainable at their core. Good luck! 🤗
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