Going NUTS!

A few years ago I discovered Soapnuts. I was listening to the radio one day and heard them talking about soap nuts, telling of their cleaning properties and how they had been used as a natural cleaning agent for thousands of years. I was intrigued and needed to know more.

What are Soapnuts?

The soap nut is a dried berry or drupe of the Sapindaceae, native to warm temperate to tropical regions. The drupes (soapnuts) contain saponins which are a natural surfactant. They have been used for washing for thousands of years by native peoples in Asia as well as Native Americans

Soapnuts are both highly-effective and gentle at the same time they will leave your laundry fresh and clean. Compared to other detergents their mildness will keep colours bright, maintaining fabric structure of your clothes for longer periods. It can be used on all types of fabrics and at all temperatures.

 How do I use Soapnuts?

Using soap nuts is easy. Put 5 - 7 soapnut shells (or equivalent half shells) into the muslin washbag (usually supplied when purchasing), tie bag securely. Load laundry into machine, place washbag on top of laundry and wash as directed. After taking out laundry, save shells to re-use up to one more time before disposing in compostable waste.You may wish to add some laundry bleach with a white wash. A few drops of essential oil can be added to the softener drawer to give your washing a scent. 

How much are soapnuts?

Soap nuts are really economical. Prices range from around £5.99 for a 300g bag. I you want to pay a bit more you could go for a 1kg bag (around 480 washes) you would pay around £12.99. A bulk buy of 5kg comes in at £49

Where can I buy Soapnuts?

Many good health food shops as well as Lakeland sell Soapnuts but they can be purchased online too Websites such as Living Naturally, Amazon or In a soapnut shell are but three.

We have been using soapnuts now for the best part of 5 years, we have saved a great deal of money. They are a renewable resource, they are eco friendly and they are cheap too. 

Whats not to like about soapnuts?