What are soap nuts?

Soap nuts (aka soap berries) are a hypoallergenic and fragrance free alternative to chemical detergents and commercial laundry soaps. Great for sensitive skin, and leaves laundry clean, soft, and fresh. It is safe for all fabric types both synthetic and natural. Use for dedicates, silk, wool, cloth diapers & more.

They can also be used in other places as alternatives to soap, such as washing the car or as a base for shampoos.

Cloth bag not included.

Species: Sapindus mukorossi

Other names: Soapberry, washnut, Himalayan soapnut

Origin: India and Nepal. The nut is actually a berry forms a hard shell when dry. The shell contains a natural surfactant called saponin. Surfactants work by reducing the surface tension in the wash water. This helps release dirt and clean fabrics and surfaces. When the soap nut shell absorbs water, this surfactant is released.

How to Use Soap Nuts for Laundry

Use soap berries in laundry in lieu of standard detergents. Usually 1/2 cup of soap nut shells are sufficient for a normal-sized load. Secure the shells inside a cloth bag or mesh zippered laundry bag. You will see few to no bubbles during the wash cycle, but this doesn't mean it is not working. Add a few drops of essential oils to the cycle if you prefer fragrance. Lavender, orange, or lemon essential oils work nicely. The soap nuts naturally smell similar to unripe/sour berries. These are safe to use in energy efficient washers.

When to replace them: They can be reused several times before they begin to disintegrate. Once the shells appear gray and soft, you can discard or compost them.

Fragrance: They do not have a smell when dry. When using in laundry, they may cause the wash water to smell slightly of vinegar. You can use essential oils if desired.

Other uses: Jewelry cleaning, washing the car, shampoo, surface cleaner, (see below for instructions).

How To Make & Use Soap Berries Liquid Concentrate

Place 12 to 15 soap nuts (about 1.5 ounces) in about 6 cups of water. For best results, bring to a boil and simmer for approximately an hour or until the soap berries turn very light tan or gray and are mushy. Allow to cool and strain. Store the liquid concentrate in an airtight glass jar. Like all botanicals, the infused soap nut liquid is best stored in a cool place away from direct sunlight. This 100% pure soap nut liquid solution has absolutely no preservatives of any kind; hence it has a limited shelf life of a few days, unless stabilized. Refrigeration will extend its shelf life.

1. Use for Cats & Dogs

Soap nuts are a gentle chemical-free non-toxic soap that can be used on cats, dogs, and other animals. The liquid concentrate has a natural insect repellent property, so not only will your pets be naturally cleaned they’ll be less likely to attract various pests such as fleas, ticks, and lice. The natural antifungal properties of the nuts are perfect for pets with skin irritations, rashes, and hot spots. The soap berries liquid concentrate is also perfect for washing pet bedding.

2. Use as a Multi-purpose Household Cleaner

Pour the liquid concentrate into a spray bottle. Use full strength or dilute as desired. Use for sinks, counters, floors, and to wash your dishes by hand.

3. Use as a Chemical Free Window and Glass Cleaner

Fill a spray bottle with about 8 oz of water. Add a half-ounce of the liquid concentrate and a half-ounce of vinegar. Spray and then wipe clean with dry cloth.

4. Use as a Dishwashing Detergent

Fill the dishwasher soap dispenser with the liquid concentrate. Wash as usual. Tip: For extra sparkle, add a half-ounce of vinegar to the rinse dispenser or during the rinse cycle.

5. Use as a Natural Carpet Cleaning Liquid

The soap berries liquid concentrate works exceptionally well in carpet cleaners because it is so low sudsing and odor reducing. Add about a quarter cup of the liquid to hot water in the portable cleaner. Great for urine stains.

6. Use as a Chemical Free Jewelry Cleaner

Soak jewelry in the liquid concentrate for a few minutes. Use an old soft toothbrush to remove debris. Rinse with clean water and polish with a soft cloth. Soap nuts have been used as a fantastic jewelry cleaner for centuries.

7. Use to Wash Hair

Use the liquid concentrate to shampoo hair. Leave in for about 5 minutes. Rinse as usual with lukewarm water, or diluted vinegar.