Questions and Answers for Soap Nuts

How do Soap Nuts work?

    Soap Nuts (also referred to as soapberries), contain saponin, a natural detergent which has many uses.  When the Soap Nuts are used for cleaning laundry; in water the Soap Nuts release the saponin that cleans the clothes.  Soap Nuts are antimicrobial and are beneficial for septic systems and grey water.

How do I use Soap Nuts to clean my laundry?

    Using the muslin bag, place 4 Soap Nuts into the bag and tie it closed.  Toss the bag into your washing machine along with your clothing that needs to be washed.  After your clothes are done washing in the washing machine, remove the muslin bag of Soap Nuts and set aside.  You can reuse this batch of Soap Nuts for 4 or 5 loads of laundry.  After that the Soap Nuts are not done yet.  You can throw the Soap Nuts into a compost pile, or you can boil the Soap Nuts to remove more saponins and create Soap Nuts liquid.

Do I need to use fabric softeners?

    No.  Soap Nuts will leave your clothes clean and soft without the use of fabric softeners.

Are Soap Nuts safe for cleaning delicate laundry?

    Yes.  Soap Nuts are a gentle and natural laundry cleaner.  They can be used on the most delicate of fabrics such as silk and wool.  Remember to wash as your normally would on gentle setting/hand wash.

Are Soap Nuts safe for people with nut allergies?

    Yes.  Soap Nuts are actually not nuts at all.  They are fruit from the Sapindus, a genus about five to twelve species of shrubs and small trees.

Are Soap Nuts safe for people with sensitive skin?

    Yes.  Soap Nuts are great for people with sensitive skin, allergies, eczema, and psoriasis.  Soap Nuts are natural, hypoallergenic, chemical free, fragrance free, and gentle on your skin and clothes.

Do Soap Nuts work in HE and front load washers?

    Yes.  Soap Nuts are also perfect for HE and front load washers as they are low-sudsing.

What do Soap Nuts smell like?

    Soap Nuts have a mild, fresh, vinegary smell.  They will not fragrance your clothes.  Your clothes will come out clean and fragrance-free.  If you prefer, you can add a few drops of essential oil on the cotton sack to add some fragrance.

How should I store my Soap Nuts?

    Soap Nuts should be stored in an airtight container or bag.  Soap Nuts absorb moisture easily.

What do I do with my Soap Nuts once I have used them?

    You can put your Soap Nuts in your compost pile (Soap Nuts are bio-degradable) or you can boil them and create more uses for them.  Please refer to our recipes.

Why are some of my Soap Nuts whole shells, half shells, and pieces?

    Soap Nuts are natural and grow in various shapes and sizes.  Whether you use whole shells, half shells, or pieces, the saponins released will clean effectively.

Are there any other uses for Soap Nuts besides cleaning my laundry?

    Yes.  There are many other uses for Soap Nuts.  Please refer to my recipes.  If you have any other uses or recipes that I don’t have listed please contact me and I’ll add them so that other customers may enjoy the many uses of Soap Nuts.

With any natural product, results may vary from person to person.