So far I've used a gallon and a half of the homemade detergent. As for how it works on the clothes; I think it works wonderfully. I like the clean scent and I've noticed no difference regarding the cleanliness of our clothes. In fact, I've noticed softer fabrics, especially on clothes that I've air dried. They don't feel stiff like I've experienced with traditional store bought detergents. And with the savings of making your own versus store bought detergent, I feel like it is a no brainer. I am a homemade detergent convert.
I do have one area of concern, though. I have a he machine, a front loader, and I have noticed a soap film in the dispenser cup and even on the washing machine door. Since I clean my machine regularly, I'm not overly concerned at this point, but it is something I'm watching.
Overall, I think homemade detergent is worth the effort and I plan on continuing to make it...I just need to convince my husband to drink one more gallon of tea so that I have four containers to work with so that I never run out of my "Tradewinds" brand detergent.
Does anyone in your family have sensitive skin? I tried this recipe (from a different blog - but same recipe) when we lived in OR, and I noticed that my skin got really dry and I was itchy a lot. It was at the same time that I was having a lot of other health issues, though, so I don't know if it's the detergent or something else. I'd love your input.
ReplyDeleteWe haven't had sensitive skin issues and I haven't noticed anyone having any issues with this detergent. If its the fels naptha soap, that is easily replaceable with another bar soap or she even has a recipe that uses dawn liquid dish soap.
ReplyDeleteDo you have hard water? Our city has very hard water. I read somewhere that maybe adding more baking soda can help or using vinegar. Have you had any experience with that or read anything about it?
ReplyDeleteI don't have much experience with hard water. You might try vinegar as fabric softener. One good thing by Jillee might be a good place to start.
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