Where do soap nuts come from?
Soap nuts are the dried fruit of the chinese soapberry tree (Sapindus Mukorossi), related to the lychee and rambutan. Soap nuts are harvested in Indian and Indonesian jungles where Soap Nut trees are holding forests and families together.
Are soap nuts safe for those with nut allergies?
Yes! They are actually a fruit related to the lychee, so there is no need for those with nut allergies to worry.
Are soap nuts safe for those with sensitive skin?
Absolutely! Soap nuts are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for those with allergies or sensitive skin. They are 100% natural, free of synthetic chemicals and are hypoallergenic. Soap nuts are perfect for use by those who are sensitive to dyes, perfumes and chemicals used in most commercial washing powders. We have had some people tell us that their eczema and psoriasis has cleared up as a result of using them for bathing and laundry detergent.
Are soap nuts good for washing cloth nappies?
They are FANTASTIC at washing cloth nappies. Commercial washing powders contain chemicals that build up in the nappy. Not only do these chemicals break down the fibres of the material causing it to loose absorbency, but they can also be irritating to your baby’s skin. In addition, soap nuts are very effective at removing odours!
I see very little suds when washing with soap nuts, are they cleaning my clothes?
Yes. Suds should not be equated to cleaning power. We have been brainwashed to think this way through decades of marketing. The foaming you see with most detergents is because of the chemicals and fillers used. soap nuts produce very little suds, but they are still working effectively. Your clothes will come out of the wash clean and fresh.
Does it matter that some of the soap nuts are in pieces instead of whole?
No. Since agitation is a catalyst in releasing saponin, small pieces will work fine ad possibly even release the saponin faster. Do not hesitate to break up the soap nuts into smaller pieces if desired, or be concerned if they are broken up while handling.
Soap nuts have a vinegar-like scent. Will my laundry have this scent?
The scent of the soap nuts does not transfer to your clothes. Amazingly, clothes come out of the wash smelling fresh and clean. There is not a trace of scent of the soap nut itself. If you prefer a scent, you can add a few drops of essential oil to a damp cloth in your dryer.
The soap nuts are really sticky. Is there something wrong?
Sticky soap nuts do not mean that they have gone bad; they will still wash and clean as normal. Some of our customers prefer stickier soap nuts because the saponins have already started being released.
Do I still need to use fabric softener?
Soap nuts naturally soften your laundry and they reduce static. We recommend that you use no additives at all.
What shall I do with the left over/used up soap nuts?
When the soap nuts are all used up, just pop them in your compost.
Is there anything else I should be aware of with soap nuts?
The only thing we strongly recommend is that soap nuts in all their forms are kept out of the reach of children and pets. Please use your good judgement and common sense whilst storing your soap nuts. Soap nuts are not consumable and are harmful if eaten.