Soap nuts are the natural alternative for people who want to do their laundry without synthetic detergents. Also known as soapnut shells, they are the dried fruit shells of the Sapindus tree, which grows in India, Nepal and Pakistan. They contain a substance called saponin, which is released on contact with warm water and cleans clothes. Soap nuts are biodegradable and contain no artificial additives, fragrances or preservatives.
How do you use soap nuts?
Using soap nuts is easy. For an average wash, put 4 to 6 soap nut halves in a cotton wash bag and place it in the drum of your washing machine. The soap nuts come into contact with the warm water, releasing the saponin, which helps remove grease and dirt from your clothes. Soap nuts don't go in the detergent drawer, but in the drum.
Soap nuts work best at 40°C to 60°C. At higher temperatures the saponin is released faster. For a light wash, the nuts last several washes.
How do soap nuts work?
Soap nuts work through the saponin in the shell of the nut. Saponin is a soap-like substance that is released when the nuts come into contact with warm water. It binds to grease and dirt on your clothes, loosening it so it rinses away. Soap nuts contain no perfume or synthetic additives.
How often can you use soap nuts?
Soap nuts can be used several times. At 30°C the nuts last 3 to 4 washes. At 60°C or more the saponin is released faster and the nuts are used up after one wash. Are they hard, dull and grey? Then they're finished — you can compost them.
Let the nuts dry well after use to prevent mould. Store them in a closed package in a cool, dry place.
Advantages and points to note
Soap nuts are fragrance-free, biodegradable and compostable after use. They work at various temperatures and suit most fabrics.
There are also points to note. Soap nuts work less well at very low temperatures or in areas with very hard water. They contain no fragrance — your laundry smells neutral. Would you like a fresh scent anyway? Add a few drops of essential oil to the wash bag. Keep soap nuts out of reach of children and pets; they are not edible.
Where can you buy soap nuts?
Soap nuts are available online and in health food shops. When buying, pay attention to origin and quality. HimalayaStyling offers certified organic soap nuts, imported directly.
Soap nuts: a conscious choice for your laundry routine
Soap nuts are a simple, plant-based way to do your laundry without synthetic detergents. Discover our range of organic soap nuts and soap nut powder at HimalayaStyling. Find more tips in soap nuts & soap nut powder.
