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 time, then this is an excellent alternative! 😊
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 with soapnuts, chestnuts and ivy, with which you not only keep your clothes fresh and clean, but also contribute to a greener planet.
But first, the 3 options with which you can make your own detergent:
Option 1: Soapnuts - Natural soap power
Soapnuts, from the Sapindus tree, are rich in saponin, a natural soap-like substance. To make optimal use of their cleaning properties, cut the soapnuts in half and use about 15-20 half nuts for the detergent.
Option 2: Chestnuts - Lasting cleaning
Chestnuts contribute to the cleaning power of the detergent. The skins of chestnuts contain saponin and add a lasting element to your homemade detergent. Cut about 10-15 chestnuts into small pieces to use their cleaning properties.
Option 3: Ivy - Fresh scent and antibacterial power
Ivy leaves not only add a pleasant scent to your detergent, they also have antibacterial properties. Rinse a handful of ivy leaves thoroughly and add them to the boiling mix 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 in combination with these natural ingredients for extra wash power and scent:
Ingredients:
- Soapnuts: These fruits of the Sapindus tree contain saponin, a natural soap-like substance.
- Chestnuts: The skins 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 soapnuts
- 10-15 chestnuts (including skin)
- A handful of ivy leaves
- 2 litres of water
Step 2: Prepare the ingredients
- Wash the soapnuts thoroughly and cut them in half.
- Cut the chestnuts into small pieces.
- Rinse the ivy leaves.
Step 3: Cook the ingredients Put the soapnuts, chestnuts and ivy leaves in a large pan and add 2 litres of water. Bring the whole to the boil and then let it simmer on low heat for about 30-45 minutes.
Step 4: Strain and store After simmering, you strain the mix 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 that your clothes smell fresh and are thoroughly cleaned, without the harmful chemicals that often sit in commercial detergents.
Tip: Add some lemon juice for extra freshness.
Benefits:
- Environmentally friendly: By using natural ingredients, you reduce the impact on the environment.
- Budget-friendly: Homemade detergent is often cheaper than ready-made versions.
- Health: Avoid chemical substances and allergens that can sit in commercial detergents.
Conclusion: Making your own detergent with soapnuts, chestnuts and ivy is not only simple, but also a step towards a more lasting lifestyle. Try this recipe and discover the benefits of a natural cleaning product for your clothes and the environment.
Did you know that our laundry sheets are plant-based? Not as environmentally friendly as this recipe but lasting at the base. Good luck! 🤗
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