Sapindus (also known as a
soapberry or soapnut) is a genus of about five to twelve
species of shrubs and small trees in the Sapindaceae,
native to warm temperate to tropical regions in both the
Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Soap nuts contain
saponin, a natural detergent which is used to clean
clothes. Soap nuts, especially Sapindus mukorossi, have
become popular as an environmentally friendly
alternative to manufactured, chemical detergents. A few
nuts can be placed in a cotton drawstring bag in with a washload and reused several times. Soap nuts are safe
for washing silk, woolens and other delicate fabrics.
I've been using soap nuts for the past two months and
although at first I was skeptical, I am surprised how
easy they are to use and how soft, fresh, and clean they leave
my laundry. I'm also reassured that I'm not using any
chemicals, fragrances, or allergens on my clothes and
linens or leaving any toxic residue on the earth.
Directions:
1.
Place the equivalent of 5 full nuts in the polyester
pouch and tie up.
2. Optional add 5 drops of your favorite
essential oil on the sponge of the pouch.
3. Place in your washing machine and start at
cold, warm, or hot water.
4. Leave in the machine during rinsing cycle
5. Recover the packet before machine drying
6. Reuse the nuts 3-4 times before throwing away!
A natural eco-friendly choice 
