Soap Berries
Soap berries are found in both the eastern and western
hemispheres, but are native to India and Nepal. They have
recently become a popular environmentally friendly alternative
to chemical detergent, and are a gentle option for those
with allergies to chemicals in regular detergents. They
have traditionally been used as an expectorant, and in
Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for eczema and psoriasis.
Soap nuts contain saponin, a natural detergent. The soap
nut shell absorbs water and releases the saponins which
circulate as a natural surfactant in the wash water, freeing
dirt, grime, and oils from clothing.
Typical Preparations
Just a few soap berries (approximately ½ ounce)
in a cotton muslin bag should work for 4 to 6 loads of
laundry. There will be little or no bubbles during the
wash cycle making them perfect for HE machines. They can
be used several times and then composted afterwards near
your deck to help repel mosquitoes. They will look mushy
and grey when they need to be changed.
To Make Soap berries Liquid:
Boil approximately 1 ounce of soap berries with 5 cups
of water for 30 minutes. When it is boiled down, you will
have about 3c. of liquid left. Add extra water, if needed,
to keep it at that amount. When cooled, remove the soap
berries, and pour it into an airtight plastic or glass
jar. It is better to make the liquid in smaller batches
as it can spoil. Experiment with making liquid to see
if you prefer a more concentrated version, using 3 cups
water instead of 5 cups. Some prefer the concentrated
solution for hand washing and shampoo.
NEW!!! You can also freeze it in ice
cube trays as well. Depending on the size of each ice
cube, use two or three per load of laundry. If each ice
cube holds about 1Tbsp, use two ice cubes.
Mosquito Repellent
Spray it onto your hands and then rub onto bare arms,
legs or face. Safe and gentle to use for babies and children.
Liquid Hand Soap
Fill a regular or foaming pump bottle with the liquid
and use to wash your hands. It will not create tons of
lather like traditional soap, but it will still get your
hands clean. Also consider adding some tea tree oil to
make your hand wash a tea tree soap.
Shampoo
Use the liquid instead of your regular shampoo. It can
even help prevent dandruff and hair loss! Leave it on
your scalp for 5-10 minutes, and rinse as normal. It will
not create a lot of suds, but it will still work!
Hand Washing Silks and Delicates
Add 1 or 2tsp. soap nuts liquid or powder to warm water.
Gently wash your delicate clothes, lingerie or undergarments.
Rinse with warm water and hang or lay flat to dry.
All Purpose Cleaner
Keep it in a spray bottle and use to clean the bathroom,
kitchen, floors etc. Add a few drops of essential oil
if you prefer a different scent.
Steam Cleaning Spot Treatment
Add 3Tbsp. to 4L hot water and use in a portable steam
cleaner. Great for getting out urine smells and stains.
Window and Glass Cleaner
Fill a spray bottle with 2c. water, 1Tbsp.vinegar and
1Tbsp. soapnuts liquid. Spray and wipe windows or mirrors
clean. Polish with a dry cloth or newspaper.
In the Dishwasher
Fill the soap dispenser with the liquid. Make sure to
scrape the dishes clean first. Add vinegar as a rinse
agent, and your dishes will come out sparkling clean!
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