DAY 17 Zero Waste Challenge: How To Do Laundry Zero Waste Way

No Waste Land September 17, 2018 0

We all know doing laundry is one task we dread to do. A few days ago we challenged you to declutter clothes and give away or swap the ones that you might not need. If you have done it, then it will be easier for you to do laundry!

Laundry detergent

Laundry detergent smells nice and gives the confirmation that all the toxic ingredients will make all stains disappear. However it is very toxic to the environment and they also cover clothes in fibers, making them harder to clean because they build up with the fabric softener. If you love your fabric softener and that scent that’s associated with clean laundry, you can still give natural ways a try and you might even be impressed of the effectiveness.

Laundry detergent recipe

• Three bars of coconut oil soap, 100g each.

• 5-6 cups washing soda (how to make washing soda)/

Directions:

1. If you have a food processor, you can chop soap into smaller pieces, then grind into powder in the processor. If you don't have it, just use a cheese grater instead.
2. Combine thoroughly the soap powder and washing soda in a large bowl, bucket, or container.
That’s all the job! It is recommended to use 2-3 tablespoons of this mixture to a load. If you wish you can add 4-5 drops of essential oils directly into the water as it fills the machine with a refreshing scent.

Wool dryer balls

Wool dryer balls are a much better alternative to dryer sheets. Wool is naturally antibacterial making it perfect for using in the laundry. Place 3 wool dryer balls in with each load of laundry. Wool dryer balls will last up to 1,000 uses making this an inexpensive dryer sheet alternative. Put a couple drops of essential oil on each ball if you’d like a little scent.

Vinegar as softener

I know it might sound weird, but using vinegar as fabric softener is a very affordable and non toxic. To be more, it will make your clothes soft and fluffy. Simply add 55ml of white vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser or to dryer balls. If you need a little scent, you can add 20 - 30 drops of your favorite essential oil to about 450ml of vinegar. Shake before each use, the oils will separate from the vinegar, and you don’t want any oil on your laundry.

Scented sheets

• 20 or so small pieces of flannel or cotton,
• 20-30 drops of essential oil,
• jar with a lid.

Add the ‘dryer sheets’ to a container and add essential oils. Keep the lid off until the ‘sheets’ have completely dried – at least a day or two. Add a sheet or two to each dryer cycle – wash and refill when the scent has reduced.