Interested in using soapberries for toxin-free cleaning, but not sure where to begin?
Soapberries (or soap nuts) are a natural alternative to standard laundry detergents, made from the fruit of the Sapindus Mukorossi tree. While mainstream detergents are usually filled with fragrance, cleaning agents, bleach and brighteners, these cost-effective shells are 100% natural.
While soapberries might be best known for the laundry, there are several other ways to put them to use around the home! From multi-purpose cleaning to hand wash and shampoo, keep reading for 5 simple ways to use soapberries for toxin-free (and eco-friendly) cleaning.
Soapberries for natural laundry detergent
Soapberries are most commonly used as a natural laundry detergent. Simply place 5 soapberry shells into the washing bag provided, and add to your load of laundry. The same 5 shells can be used for up to 5 loads of washing, making them a more cost-effective solution to mainstream detergents. To use soapberries for other cleaning purposes around the home, you’ll first need to make a soapberry liquid.
Follow these simple steps for a multi-purpose soapberry liquid:
- Add 10 soapberry shells per litre of water, and boil for between 15-20 minutes
- Press the berries gently with a spoon to release saponins. Be careful to avoid breaking the shells.
- Wait for the liquid to cool, then strain the mixture through a cloth or cotton bag.
- Keep your soapberry liquid in the fridge and add a teaspoon of citric acid to increase its lifespan. Your soapberry liquid can be used for up to 4 weeks.
This soapberry liquid will become the base for the following recipes:
Soapberries for household cleaner
Soapberries are ideal for household cleaning due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties! Along with cleaning different surfaces throughout the home, soapberries can also be used to treat mouldy corners, too. Simply strain your soapberry liquid into a spray bottle and use exactly as you would use a multi-purpose cleaner. You could even add a few drops of tea tree oil for additional antibacterial properties!
Soapberries for natural shampoo and hand wash
If you have sensitive scalp issues, soapberries can be used to create an all natural, hypo-allergenic shampoo. Here’s how:- Strain your soapberry liquid and add 1-2 teaspoons of Guar Gum or cornflour per 500ml. You might need to adjust the quantities until you find a consistency you’re happy with.
- Use a hand mixer to combine, taking care to remove any lumps
- Add a few drops of lavender or tea tree oil to create a pleasant scent
- Blend the mixture until frothy and leave to stand until any bubbles disappear.
- Store your mixture carefully and be sure to avoid contact with your eyes when washing!
- This same recipe can also be used as a gentle, anti-bacterial hand wash.
Soapberries for stainless steel/glass cleaner
To clean your stainless steel and glass surfaces without streaks, try out this natural remedy:- Mix ⅔ of your strained soapberry liquid with ⅓ vinegar
- Add a couple drops of tea tree essential oil
- Add mixture to a spray bottle and use exactly as you would use a standard glass cleaner.
You can grab your own Organic Soapberries online right here at Inspire Me Naturally, with Afterpay, ZipPay and Laybuy available.
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