Why Natural Washing Detergents Are a Better Choice
When it comes to doing laundry, many of us don’t think twice about grabbing store-bought detergents. However, conventional washing detergents are often packed with chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Switching to natural washing detergents is a simple yet impactful choice that benefits both you and the planet.
In this post, we’ll dive into the advantages of using natural washing detergents, key ingredients to look for, how to make your own, and some top eco-friendly products available in Australia.
Why Choose Natural Washing Detergent?
1. Healthier for You and Your Family
Conventional laundry detergents often contain harsh chemicals such as phosphates, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances. These substances can irritate the skin, trigger allergies, and even disrupt hormones. Natural washing detergents, made from plant-based ingredients, are gentler on the skin and free from harmful toxins, offering a safer option for your family.
2. Better for the Environment
The chemicals in conventional detergents don’t just disappear; they end up in our waterways, causing significant environmental harm. For instance, phosphates can lead to algae blooms, which deplete oxygen in water and endanger aquatic life. By choosing a natural detergent, you reduce your environmental impact and contribute to a healthier planet.
3. Effective Cleaning Power
Concerned about whether natural detergents can effectively clean your clothes? Rest assured, many natural detergents are just as powerful as their chemical-laden counterparts. Ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, and essential oils naturally lift stains and freshen fabrics, ensuring your laundry is as clean as ever.
Key Ingredients in Natural Washing Detergent
When shopping for or making your own natural washing detergent, look for these essential ingredients:
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a versatile cleaner that neutralises odours, softens water, and helps break down dirt and grease.
2. Washing Soda
Also known as sodium carbonate, washing soda is a natural mineral that removes tough stains and softens water, making your detergent more effective.
3. Castile Soap
Castile soap, made from olive oil, is a gentle, non-toxic, and biodegradable option, serving as a great base for natural detergents.
Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, and lemon not only provide a pleasant scent but also offer antibacterial and antifungal properties.
5. Borax (Optional)
Borax is a natural mineral that enhances cleaning power by softening water and removing stains. While some people avoid it due to safety concerns, it’s optional in natural detergents.
How to Make Your Own Natural Washing Detergent
Making your own natural washing detergent is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of baking soda
- 1 cup of washing soda
- 1 bar of castile soap (grated)
- 10-15 drops of essential oils (optional)
Instructions:
- Grate the bar of castile soap using a cheese grater or food processor.
- In a large bowl, mix the grated soap with the baking soda and washing soda.
- Add the essential oils and mix well.
- Store the detergent in an airtight container.
How to Use:
- Use 1-2 tablespoons of the detergent per load of laundry. For extra dirty loads, you can add a little more.
This recipe is safe for all types of washing machines, including high-efficiency (HE) models. It’s also gentle on fabrics and won’t leave any chemical residue on your clothes.
Recommended Natural Washing Detergents
If DIY isn’t your thing, there are plenty of great natural washing detergents available online. Here are three eco-friendly options that you can try:
1. Tru Earth Eco-friendly Ultra Concentrated Laundry Detergent Eco-Strips
These laundry sheets are paraben-free, phosphate-free, free of added dyes and chlorine bleach, free of 1,4-dioxane, readily biodegradable, and vegan, containing no animal-based ingredients or testing on animals by Tru Earth or their ingredient suppliers.
2. Wash Wild Laundry Liquid
Wash Wild Laundry Detergent is made from 100% natural ingredients. It contains no synthetic chemicals, bleach or artificial fragrance. All Wash Wild products are proudly made in Victoria, supporting local industry and reducing carbon footprint.
3. Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Powder
Molly’s Suds is a popular choice for those with sensitive skin. It’s made with only five natural ingredients and is safe for both people and the planet.
- Formulation: Made with just five natural ingredients, free from synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals.
- Pros: Safe for sensitive skin, eco-friendly, and highly effective in both cold and hot water.
- Cons: Powder may require extra rinsing in some machines.
- Available at:Molly’s Suds and Amazon
The Impact of Your Choice
Switching to a natural washing detergent is a small change that can have a big impact. By choosing products free from harmful chemicals, you’re protecting your health and the environment. Plus, with so many effective and affordable natural detergents available, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.
Remember, every small effort contributes to a healthier home and planet. Whether you decide to make your own detergent or purchase one of the recommended products, you’re making a positive choice for yourself, your family, and the Earth.
Sources:
- ‘Our Phosphorus Future’ report
Making the switch to natural washing detergent is easy, and with the right ingredients, you won’t sacrifice cleaning power. So, why not give it a go? Your clothes—and the planet—will thank you!
