If you're looking for a way to clean your clothes without harming the environment, keep reading. We're about to share some of our favorite eco-friendly laundry detergent alternatives.
But why consider laundry detergent alternatives anyway? Well, conventional laundry detergent contains harmful chemicals that can pollute waterways and harm wildlife. Plus, such chemicals can potentially cause skin and respiratory issues in people who are sensitive.
In short, conventional detergent is problematic. If you want to go green, it's time to make a switch.
We’ve rounded up a bunch of natural alternatives and tips to help you get started with green laundry habits.
Alternatives to Laundry Detergent
Baking soda
Baking soda is a natural cleaner that can be used to remove dirt, stains, and odors from clothes. It's also a great way to soften clothes and make them feel fresh and clean. To use baking soda as a laundry detergent, add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the washing machine along with your clothes.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is another natural cleaner that can be used to wash clothes. It's effective at removing stains, deodorizing clothes, and preventing mold and mildew. To use white vinegar as a laundry detergent, add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the washing machine along with your clothes.
Borax
Borax is a natural mineral that can be used to boost the cleaning power of baking soda or vinegar. It’s also effective at removing tough stains, such as grass stains and blood stains. To use borax as a laundry detergent, add 1/4 cup of borax to the washing machine along with your clothes.
Dish Soap
Dish soap is a mild detergent that can be used to wash clothes. It's especially effective at removing grease and oil stains. To use dish soap as a laundry detergent, dilute 1 tablespoon of dish soap in 1 gallon of water. Then, add the soapy water to the washing machine along with your clothes.
Castile Soap
Castile soap is a vegetable-based soap that is gentle on clothes and the environment. It's effective at removing dirt, stains, and odors. To use castile soap as a laundry detergent, dilute 1 tablespoon of castile soap in 1 gallon of water. Then, add the soapy water to the washing machine along with your clothes.
Adding Essential Oil to Castile Soap for Fragrance
Eco-friendly alternatives often leave people longing for the familiar scent of detergent, a fragrance that has become synonymous with cleanliness in the minds of many.
But you can elevate your clothes-washing experience by adding essential oils to castile soap. Not only do they smell great, but they also have some additional benefits, such as:
- Antibacterial properties: Some essential oils, such as lavender and tea tree oil, have antibacterial properties that can help to kill bacteria and germs on your clothes.
- Deodorizing properties: Essential oils can help to deodorize your clothes and remove any unwanted odors.
- Relaxing properties: Some essential oils, such as lavender and chamomile, have relaxing properties that can help you to feel calm and relaxed after a long day.
To add essential oils to castile soap for laundry, mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil into a bar of castile soap. You can also add essential oils to a liquid castile soap solution. Just be sure to use a small amount of essential oil, as too much can be overpowering.
Here are some tips for adding essential oils to castile soap for laundry:
- Start with a small amount of essential oil. You can always add more later if needed.
- Test the scent before adding it to all of your laundry. This will help you to make sure that you like the scent and that it's not too strong.
- Store your castile soap with essential oils in a cool, dark place. This will help to keep the essential oils fresh.
Here are some essential oils that are commonly used for laundry:
- Lavender. Lavender has a soothing scent, making it a timeless favorite for laundry. Not only does it create a serene atmosphere, but it's also perfect for those with delicate skin.
- Tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent. It’s a good choice for laundry if you have allergies or skin problems.
- Peppermint or Eucalyptus. Both have a refreshing and invigorating scent that makes your clothes smell crisp and clean. The scent also helps people with coughs and headaches.
- Citrus oils: Citrus oils, such as lemon, orange, and grapefruit, have a bright and cheerful scent that can help to brighten your mood. They’re also a good choice for people who want to add a touch of freshness to their laundry.
Here are some additional tips for doing your laundry a more eco-friendly way:
- Use cold water whenever possible. Hot water uses more energy and can damage clothes.
- Pre-treat stains with a natural stain remover, such as baking soda or vinegar.
- Wash clothes with full loads. This will help to conserve water and energy.
- Air-dry clothes whenever possible. This will help to reduce the amount of energy used for drying.
- Use wool dryer balls. Instead of dryer sheets, use wool dryer balls. They are reusable and compostable.