Soap Nuts: A New Alternative to Wash Clothes
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 01.18.06
We find these little nuts interesting (and also wonder who discovered them) but apparently you can use them in your washing machine in lieu of detergent. SoapNuts are the shells of a seed from trees grown throughout India and Nepal. These shells give a soapy substance when they come in contact with water (the seeds are discarded) and it’s said that 1kg of the nuts can wash 100 loads. Simply pop 6-8 shells in the cloth bag and throw them in your washing machine – these will last about 3-4 washes. Your wash will come out clean, but without a smell, so if you like the scent of clean clothes just add a few drops of essential oil to the wash beforehand. SoapNuts can also be used for other things as well, like washing windows, cars or pets. When the shells have been used to their full extent just throw them in the compost pile. Thanks for the tip, Michael D.! Via ::Groovy Green
I second this - I have been using these for laundry for a couple of months now and they are awesome!
Extra good if you have sensitive skin.
i'm nuts for soapnuts.
Soap Nuts have been used in China for over 1000 years. Hardly new, but noteworthy. Soap Nuts are supposed to be very gentle on fabrics and non yellowing on white silks.
O.K. where could one purchase "Soap Nuts"?
If you are in Europe, they can be found all over the web, however if you are in the US, there is only one place I have seen them for sale - http://www.zamuta.com/
Thank You Tracy! : )