• Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Services
  • Resources
  • Contact
  • Shop
    • Shop Now
    • Cart
    • Checkout
    • Return Policy
    • My Account
  • Food
  • Family
  • Finances
  • Fundamentals
You are here: Home / Fundamentals / Soap Nuts – A Natural, Frugal Laundry Detergent

by Stacy  122 Comments

Soap Nuts – A Natural, Frugal Laundry Detergent

soap-nuts-button

So, I’m here to make an announcement that I’ve been keeping a secret for a while. No, I’m not pregnant again…no, I am not moving, and no I did not finish off the bag of kettle corn (*cough*). I’m pretty well known for making my own laundry detergent…and I made it for a long time. But, I don’t make it any more. I DO NOT MAKE HOMEMADE LAUNDRY DETERGENT ANYMORE! Whew! I’m so glad to have that off my chest.

I really love homemade laundry detergent – the dry and the liquid versions…but I love soap nuts better!

Soap nuts are not nuts that you eat while making soap…although, eating nuts while making soap sounds like a good party to me! Soap nuts are dried shells of the soapberry. They contain saponin which is a cleaning agent that works like soap and detergent, minus the chemicals – it’s 100% natural. When they get wet, they create suds…and they’ll clean your dirty undies like nothing else!

Soap Nuts
Soap Nuts

I switched to soap nuts about a year ago after reading about using soap nuts on Kitchen Stewardship. While I didn’t mind making my own laundry detergent, the idea of having something that I didn’t have to make AND knowing that it was more natural that what I was using was a big draw for me…so I ordered the sample bag on Amazon using Swagbucks. I was hooked. There was no turning back. I fought the nuts and the nuts won.

The draw of homemade detergent is that it’s so stinkin’ cheap. Really…why would I want to move away from something like that? Well…I didn’t. Homemade detergent was running me about $.05 per load. I bought the 4 pound bag of Soap Nuts on Amazon for $44.95.That’s about 800 loads or more. If we just go with the low end (800 loads), that makes each load $.05 each! That’s exactly what I was paying for homemade detergent….but this is even better because I get back that time I was using to make soap AND I know it’s natural.

UPDATE: Apparently the seller who had them at this price is sold out as some readers are reporting a higher price from another seller and no free shipping. We are looking into this matter. Thanks! – :0(

Another plus for me is that I only need one type of soap now – I can use soap nuts on baby clothing, cloth diapers, and our regular laundry. One soap – all loads. That’s a WINNER. Bazinga!

Soap nut berries
Soap Nut berries

So, how do they work?

1. You put 4-5 berries in a muslin bag that is provided when you buy the nuts.

2. Put the bag down into the washer and turn on the water. If you’re using warm or hot water (I only use warm and hot wash) then you just let them get wet a bit before putting your laundry in. If you’re using cold water, just place the bag of berries in a container of hot water for about 3 minutes before you want to do your load.

3. Launder as usual.

4. Take bag of berries out before drying clothing. (Note – accidentally tossing them in the dryer doesn’t seem to hurt anything, but I like getting mine out.)

5. Love your naturally, clean clothing.

Soap nuts will work for about 5-7 loads, depending on how big your loads are.

So, how can you keep track of how many loads you’ve done? Simply keep a dry erase marker in the laundry room. Make tallies on the top or side of the washer. These easily wipe off when you’re done and ready to make a new list. (This is also great for reminding yourself that you’re laundering something that doesn’t need to be placed in the dryer – just make a note on top of the washer).

Soap Nuts in washer

FAQs

-Are soap nuts good for those with sensitive skin? Are they safe for babies?

YES!! Soap nuts are hypoallergenic, so they’re great for those with sensitive skin and allergies – especially babies.

-Where do you buy them?

I like buying mine from Amazon for $44.95. That way I know I’m getting free shipping and I still get to buy from a smaller company (NaturOil).  The bigger order you buy, the cheaper your loads are. If you are not sure you’ll like them, you could get the sample pack first like I did.

-Are they cloth diaper safe?

You betcha!

-How do I know when my soap nuts are “done?”

Here’s a great post from Kitchen Stewardship about how to know when soap nuts are “done.”

-Can I use them in my HE washer?

Yes!  And HE washers yield more loads than regular washers.

-Are they pet safe for bathing?

Yes!!

-Can I add Oxyclean to my wash as usual? Vinegar?

Yep. Doesn’t affect the cleaning power at all.

-Doesn’t leaving them in the rinse cycle create more soap?

No…not as long as your rinse is cold. They do not release saponin in cold water.

NOTE: Keep out of the reach of pets and children. They do resemble date fruit – but they are harmful when eaten. Considering that most kids don’t like the taste of soap, they likely wouldn’t eat any – unless you child has a dirty mouth. HA!!!

Soap Nuts after laundering
Soap Nuts after laundering

So, that’s my spill on soap nuts. I love them. I don’t regret switching at all – and likely this is all I will use going forward. I do still sometimes use ECOS for my cloth diapers…but that’s just habit. 🙂

You can also make your own liquid detergent using the soap nuts. Later on I hope to show y’all how to make liquid from your soap nuts.

Share this:

  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

Other Posts You Might Like

About Stacy

Stacy is a Homemaking and Business Mom Mentor, the author of two cookbooks, creator of multiple e-courses, seasoned life coach, and comedian extraordinaire. Her first priority is her husband and her children - family first. She presses on each day because her calling is to teach, train, and mentor other ladies to have their dreams. She believes if it’s not easy, you won’t do it – because she’s lived it. She’ll bring YOU the awesome so that you can get your home back into control and watch your business soar. For tips and easy strategies, you can follow her on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the content above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I may receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Comment Policy: I love reading your thoughts and input on what you read here. I'm sure we'll disagree sometimes and that's okay! In those cases, do what's right for you and yours. As with any form of communication, only post comments that move the discussion in a positive direction.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Comments

  1. zidane says

    June 26, 2022 at 8:40 am

    very clear and good article easy to understand. Thank you

    Reply
  2. Christi-An says

    April 6, 2018 at 2:06 pm

    I have a front load machine. So what would you suggest on using them. Would you do like for a cold wash and soak them first.

    Reply
  3. Erica says

    August 30, 2016 at 9:50 am

    Have you used then for washing down before? Do you know how effective they are for that?

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      August 30, 2016 at 4:06 pm

      Washing down what?

      Reply
  4. Brenda says

    September 23, 2015 at 2:29 pm

    Hello, Stacy. Do you still use your soap nuts for laundry and are you still happy with them? Thanks so much! Always appreciate your honesty!

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      September 23, 2015 at 2:32 pm

      I’m actually NOT using them right now. Eli has some really bad skin problems, so I’ve had to switch to something super duper gentle…not that Soap Nuts aren’t, but I had to be sure. But I was happy with them the entire time I was using them. 🙂

      Reply
  5. Eureka says

    September 1, 2015 at 12:20 pm

    Do you still use a fabric softener at all or is it not needed?

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      September 1, 2015 at 3:26 pm

      I use white vinegar as a fabric softener – but not in every load. 🙂

      Reply
  6. Mary Ragan says

    May 11, 2015 at 3:07 pm

    The $44.95 price has dropped to $39.95 =)

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      May 11, 2015 at 3:57 pm

      Amazon is super fickle. Sometimes the price changes several times a day. 🙂

      Reply
  7. LJohns says

    March 29, 2015 at 10:00 pm

    Just curious if you are still liking them. I bought some and have been using them for a month. I do like that the clothes seem clean and there are no smells, but I’m finding that everything that is supposed to be white is turning yellow! Anyone else?

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      March 30, 2015 at 10:38 am

      I have heard that from some people, but have not experienced it for myself. Maybe it’s because I line dry in the summer and the sun bleaches things?

      Reply
  8. Steve Medeiros says

    February 14, 2015 at 6:19 am

    It is very rewarding to be able to make your own detergent. While at the same time not compromising the cleaning power.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      February 14, 2015 at 12:46 pm

      Agreed.

      Reply
  9. Jill Troutman says

    August 17, 2014 at 2:25 pm

    Can these be used in a HE washing machine? Would you put them in the soap dispenser or the tub? Would you put them in the hot water to activate them and then throw them in or just throw them in? Not much water in these new machines ..

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      August 18, 2014 at 9:44 am

      I don’t have an HE washer, but I believe those questions are answered on their site. 🙂
      http://www.naturoli.com/soapnuts/directions.html

      Reply
  10. Vani says

    January 30, 2014 at 6:09 am

    Boil 12-15 nuts in 1.2lts of water for 20-30mins. You can use the liquid for detergent/ dish liquid/ foam soap (I didn’t try this since we are using castile liquid)/ tsp of this liquid in floor cleaner water/ shampoo. They are great. Liquid doesn’t last long since gets spoiled. (Generally 2-3 days unless you add food grade preservatives). In india, we leave the soap nuts in room temp. water for few hrs and when you shake & squeeze you would get bubbles & would be used for shampoo. (Also good for cleaning silk clothes)
    You can add tbsp. of washing soda if you require in the laundry. No chemical smell & cleans good.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 30, 2014 at 3:38 pm

      Here is my tutorial: http://www.stacymakescents.com/how-to-make-soap-nuts-liquid

      Reply
  11. Jennifer W says

    December 30, 2013 at 10:20 am

    Cool! I’m going to try these. I just ordered some off Amazon. The reviews on Amazon mentioned that certain brands perform better than others so I went with the one you recommended. If they work well for me, I might try some from Mountain Rose Herbs because they are $6/lb for the same species/origin. Thanks for the tip! I’ve been looking for a new laundry detergent.

    Reply
  12. Stacy says

    July 8, 2013 at 4:45 pm

    I keep a small mason jar on the counter near my washer. When I want to use the cold wash, I first put some hot water into my mason jar and add the soap nuts. I let them soak while I’m sorting the laundry and filling up the washer. After a few minutes, I shake the jar (lid on) and when it starts to bubble I know it’s activated. Then I just throw it all in the wash! 🙂

    Reply
    • Tiffany Terry says

      August 3, 2013 at 9:26 pm

      thanks!

      Reply
  13. Tiffany Terry says

    July 8, 2013 at 12:04 am

    So I live in Japan and here we only wash with cold water…you said to soak them in hot water before adding to laundry? That’ll do the job?

    Reply
  14. Sarah says

    April 8, 2013 at 9:15 am

    This is the first time I have ever heard about these (well, besides on instagram where you pointed me to this very informative post. haha!) . WOW! It almost seems too good to be true. And I am very very tempted to try these out! Except the price up front is slightly a deterrent. I may have to wait a few weeks to be able to eek that out of my budget. But I am out of detergent now! I guess I’ll have to go make some of my own up for now. Thanks for sharing this awesome little tip! 😀

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      April 9, 2013 at 11:48 am

      You could try the sample pack! 🙂

      Reply
  15. Holly says

    February 15, 2013 at 4:51 pm

    Hi Stacy! I’m a mama of four under four (triplets +1) trying to live on a budget and make more things myself! I just made my first batch of homemade laundry detergent last week (borax + washing soda + felsnaptha) which seems to be working great – but this looks even better! Especially since I cloth diaper as well and currently buy a separate detergent for that! And who doesn’t secretly just love the idea of throwing dried berry shells into the wash – I mean, it just doesn’t get much “crunchier” than that – I love it! So, I’d really like to share this with my friends on my own blog – and I just wanted to make sure it was okay to use that top picture of yours (with the link to your website still in the bottom corner) and to post a link to this post -? Is that what they refer to as “linking up” -? I’m still trying to figure all this blogger jargon out:)

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      February 19, 2013 at 7:05 am

      Holly, that’s fine with me! As long as you keep the watermark and link to me, that’s kosher. 🙂 Thanks for checking with me first – that’s the right way to do it! 🙂
      PS – I’m honored that you would want to do that.

      Reply
      • Holly says

        February 19, 2013 at 5:26 pm

        Thanks, Stacy! I’m so happy to have found your blog and your Facebook page! Here’s the link to my blogpost…about your blogpost 🙂

        http://oregon-mama.blogspot.com/2013/02/because-it-dont-get-much-crunchier-than.html

        Reply
        • Stacy says

          February 19, 2013 at 6:04 pm

          Oh my goodness! Your kids are stinkin’ adorable!

          Reply
  16. obearlady says

    February 8, 2013 at 9:18 am

    hi theses soap nut are the greatest thing around i share my friends they lov then to not going back to store bought no more these are the best ty

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      February 8, 2013 at 2:03 pm

      I use them daily!

      Reply
  17. Sam says

    January 28, 2013 at 5:59 pm

    I have been worried about trying these. But now I feel like I won’t have to worry. Ordering tonight!

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 29, 2013 at 7:06 am

      Worry no longer! I just threw some in the wash. 🙂

      Reply
  18. Karen says

    January 19, 2013 at 11:13 pm

    Do you throw them away when they are done? Could you compost them?

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 20, 2013 at 2:47 pm

      Yes, they are compostable. I just don’t have a compost pile. 🙂

      Reply
  19. Madeline Wheeler says

    January 17, 2013 at 12:16 pm

    Hi Stacy
    Ilove reading your blogs so I decided I would try the tree tea oil for warts.I bought the Equate brand 100 % tea tree oil.However, the smell is aweful.The first night I tried it I had to get up and wash it off because the smell was so strong my hubby couldn’t sleep.Also my daughter couldn’t stand the smell of it .What brand did you use? Is there one out there with a milder smell? Anxiously awaiting your reply.
    Thanks
    Madeline

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 3:36 pm

      It’s very potent stuff, and that’s why it only takes one drop. Although I find the smell nice – it’s a clean smell. I use Thursday Planation brand for this. 🙂

      Reply
  20. Mary Catone says

    January 17, 2013 at 8:39 am

    Stacy-

    Thank you for telling us about these! I just ordered the soap nuts, the same quantity you get for $38.95, it seems like a great price. I couldn’t figure out though how you were able to have free shipping, you lucky girl!

    I love getting your e-mails, I feel like I’m learning so much.

    Have a great day with Jesus,
    Mary

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 8:46 am

      They were offering free shipping when I first posted it – but they sold out of that batch and Amazon put shipping charges back up. 🙁 Bummer.

      Reply
  21. Carol A says

    January 17, 2013 at 3:44 am

    Has anyone tried growing their own? I presume it’s a tree, but do you know anything about where they will grow?

    Reply
    • Carol A says

      January 17, 2013 at 3:52 am

      Here’s a Link about “growing your own!”
      http://www.soapnuts.pro/2009/07/15/soap-nuts-trees/

      Reply
      • Stacy says

        January 17, 2013 at 7:04 am

        That’s great! Except I have the black thumb of death. LOL

        Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 7:15 am

      They will grow anywhere Stacy is not. LOL

      Reply
  22. Steph (The Cheapskate Cook) says

    January 16, 2013 at 11:04 pm

    Wow!!! I’ve heard of these but never imagined they’d be so awesome. Thanks for the review.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 7:16 am

      Steph, you would LOVE them! Right up your alley! 🙂

      Reply
      • Kyrsten Gurski says

        April 23, 2014 at 4:54 pm

        WHAT

        Reply
  23. Victoria says

    January 16, 2013 at 10:43 pm

    I have read about soap nuts before but this is the most informative review. It answered all my questions. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 7:17 am

      🙂 That’s my job! 🙂

      Reply
  24. Mary Lemke says

    January 16, 2013 at 5:32 pm

    How do you get free shipping? I tried to order, but the shipping is almost $10

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 7:26 am

      When I first put the post up, the shipping was free but the nuts were more – however Amazon sold out of those quickly and they moved to a different seller. So, I’m contacting Naturoli today to see if they would offer my readers free shipping. 🙂

      Reply
  25. Teri W says

    January 16, 2013 at 3:25 pm

    Just wondering if you could use say Purex Crystal thingies, I forget what it’s called now, in your loads and if that would harm the quality of your soap nuts? It would certainly take care of any “manky” *I LOVE that word, lol* smells… just sayin and askin…

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 7:27 am

      I’m not sure…but for me, the idea is to use something natural so that I can avoid the chemicals in traditional stuff. 😉 So, that would defeat the purpose – but that’s only for me. Good thought!

      Reply
  26. Thankfully Thrifty says

    January 16, 2013 at 2:40 pm

    After I finish up our ingredients for our DIY homemade detergent, I may need to try this! Still my homemade stuff is cheaper at just 2 cents per load, but I do love the completely natural element of the soap nuts and how it takes the work of making the detergent out. Hmmm pondering this one…

    Reply
    • Thankfully Thrifty says

      January 16, 2013 at 2:42 pm

      Although it would save me on CD detergent… My arm is twisting!

      Reply
      • Stacy says

        January 17, 2013 at 7:28 am

        🙂 I’m good at that.

        Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 7:27 am

      I know – I weighed it a long time and then caved for the convenience of the nuts. The liquid homemade is cheaper than the powder homemade – but still…I like the nuts. 🙂

      Reply
  27. Krystal says

    January 16, 2013 at 12:26 pm

    I guess this company got greedy since you posted this article linking them, because now they are charging $38.95 plus $9.25 for shipping, $48.20 for 4lbs
    Makes me not want to purchase from them… 🙁

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 17, 2013 at 7:29 am

      Yes, I can see that’s very distressing – it would aggravate me too. Although, I will say I think it’s Amazon and not the company. When I first posted it, they quickly sold out and moved to a different vendor. The cost was more. Then they came back to the same vendor that day and the free shipping option was gone. We’re contacting Naturoli today to see if they will offer free shipping to my readers. If so, I’ll update the post with that code. 🙂

      Reply
  28. Michelle says

    January 15, 2013 at 9:15 pm

    Thanks do much for sharing this! Very frugal indeed!!!

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 16, 2013 at 7:17 am

      That’s my tag line! 🙂

      Reply
      • Michelle says

        January 16, 2013 at 9:45 am

        Oops! Didn’t mean to steal your tag-line 😉 We’ve got the starter pack in our Amazon cart. I also saw the same company you mentioned sells a five lb. bag for ~$50.00

        Reply
        • Stacy says

          January 17, 2013 at 7:29 am

          Yes – I saw that too…it’s a good option. I’m hoping I can get in contact with them and see if they’ll offer my readers free shipping.

          Reply
  29. Jessica Smartt says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:21 pm

    Okay, so I’m intrigued. Very intrigued. I have never, ever heard of this! Here is my main question. Does it REALLY, really clean the clothes well? I have two extremely messy boys, one mom who may or may not always remember to put bibs on them, and who may or may not be just as messy of an eater. We need detergent that WORKS. I did the homemade for a long time but eventually gave up because I just felt like the clothes weren’t getting clean enough. Stacy, can you or anyone else speak to this?

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 16, 2013 at 7:18 am

      It cleans poopy diapers well. 🙂 If you were skeptical, you could just get the sample pack (like I did because I’m a total skeptic) and wash 5 really dirty loads to see how it does. Use your Swagbucks!

      Reply
  30. Jo says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:36 pm

    Oops on the aga not in it!!!

    Reply
  31. Jo says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:35 pm

    Hi I’ve tried them once but didn’t like the smell they left on the laundry kind of smelt manky. I’m thinking of making all my cleaning products, running my own business and a co-operative I panick about time and effectiveness of home made cleaning products but have been reading your blog with much interest and think its time to ditch convince for health and frugalness. Thank you for sharing and being inspirational. If you know of any ways to stop the smell other than dryer balls as I dry everything in my aga. I was also thinking how much space regular cleaners detergents etc take think ill have a whole cuboard full of space lol

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 16, 2013 at 7:27 am

      I haven’t noticed a smell, but I think it varies with the type of water. I don’t know of a way to use the essential oils except on the dryer balls. I’ve tried to use them in the washer, but I didn’t smell anything.
      Look luck in your new cleaning adventure! It’s lots of fun. Check out the Simply Clean eBook post for some really great ideas.

      Reply
  32. Melissa says

    January 15, 2013 at 6:13 pm

    Has anyone bought and used the soap nuts PIECES? They are cheaper – the Naturoli site has them, as well as a seller on ebay with free shipping.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:11 pm

      I’ve heard they work just as well. And I say go for the free shipping! 🙂

      Reply
  33. Melissa says

    January 15, 2013 at 2:07 pm

    Just thought you should know that the Amazon’s 4 lbs of soap nuts is now $60 (following the link you provided above).

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 5:38 pm

      Thanks Melissa! I updated the post. The original sellers of the Soap Nuts sold out and this new vender charges more. Keep checking back to see if NaturOil gets more in stock. 🙂

      Reply
  34. Nicole says

    January 15, 2013 at 11:37 am

    I too have used soap nuts through two babies. Look for the soap nuts with the “seed” still inside. It is hard to find them but they work longer and don’t fall apart as easily in the bag. When at the store give the bag a shake if you can hear a rattle (it will be distinct) then you know the seed is still inside. They seem to be no more expensive than the seedless ones. After the nuts are spent you have a seed which like a marble, but about half the size. Great for crafting, making rattles ect…. 🙂

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 6:09 pm

      Well who knew?! Genius!

      Reply
  35. Emily says

    January 15, 2013 at 11:21 am

    I can’t thank you enough for posting this. I’ve been debating buying these for a year, but every time I mention it to my husband, he gets his “Oh no, here comes the crazy all-natural nut case again!” look. I think I’ll order the sample and see if I can win him over! 🙂 And the .05 cents a load argument won’t hurt either.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 6:09 pm

      I get that look all the time – I’m sorta used to it. 😉 You can just refer him to me. Ha!

      Reply
  36. Lexie says

    January 15, 2013 at 11:01 am

    Funny that I posted about these today too! 🙂 I have LOVED using the soap nuts too. They are great to have around when I forget to make my detergent or just want to change things up for a week of washing.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 6:09 pm

      You know what they say about great minds. 😉

      Reply
  37. Jolie says

    January 15, 2013 at 10:31 am

    This is such a great idea! I might have to try some soap nuts. I’ll also pass this on to my mom – she loves the idea of using all natural things.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 6:10 pm

      Smart mama! 🙂

      Reply
  38. Jackie says

    January 15, 2013 at 10:05 am

    I love this. But I have a front loader that locks when the water starts. I can’t then add clothes in. Does this mean I can’t use soap nuts? What would you suggest? I’d love to try it.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:08 pm

      I’ve read that you just soften the soap nuts a bit in a bowl of hot water before you toss them in. 🙂

      Reply
      • Margaret says

        January 16, 2013 at 7:46 pm

        I keep a jar that I fill with hot water and shake, then throw it all in the drum. I only use cold water, so it activates them and deals with the HE locking door. It also lets me check if the nuts are good, ie there has to be suds that develop.

        Reply
        • Stacy says

          January 17, 2013 at 7:21 am

          Thanks for that GREAT tip! I don’t have an HE washer, so that was most helpful. 🙂

          Reply
  39. Jenny says

    January 15, 2013 at 9:51 am

    I love soap nuts. I have been using them for a couple of years. To make liquid, you put some in a pan with some water and boil for a little while (I can’t remember how long, I just eyeball it), then let them sit in the water for a few hours then put in spray bottle or whatever. I use them for everything. Thanks for the review.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:08 pm

      I love one thing that can be used for SO many things!

      Reply
  40. Trina says

    January 15, 2013 at 9:48 am

    I am going to try these for our family of 7!! Love saving money. Question…I love having nicely scented laundry. Any recommendations on adding a nice smell?? Thanks 🙂 P.S. If you only use warm and hot washes, how to you keep your darks from fading into the whites (when you have clothes with both colors on them…a dark shirt with white sleves??)

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:09 pm

      You could use wool dryer balls and add a drop or two of essential oil. 🙂
      I don’t have the color fading problem often….just occasionally. And if I do, I just treat it with oxygen bleach the next time I wash and it goes away. 🙂

      Reply
  41. Cynthia says

    January 15, 2013 at 9:35 am

    Thank you!!! This sounds great. I must try this. Did you have to pay for the sample pack or is there a charge?

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:10 pm

      The sample pack is pretty cheap. I used Swagbucks to pay for it. 🙂

      Reply
  42. Sonya says

    January 15, 2013 at 9:26 am

    I tried soapnuts a while back, but my laundry started smelling funky. I contacted the company for suggestions but they never returned my emails. I always use vinegar in the rinse so I’m not sure what else I could do. I guess I should dust them off and give them another try. I bought a 4-5 lb bag and hate to see them go to waste…

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:10 pm

      It might be the type of water you have….I’ve heard that can make a difference. You could use them but alternate with a different type of detergent?

      Reply
  43. Melissa Hendrix says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:57 am

    I saw somewhere to run a bag of soap nut under warm water and if they still release suds they are good for another load! Saves me from having to keep track 🙂 I love them!!

    Reply
    • Melissa Hendrix says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:58 am

      You have to squeeze the bag while having it under the water.

      Reply
      • Stacy says

        January 15, 2013 at 9:09 am

        Isn’t that just so fun? I love doing that and seeing the bubble start to come up. Fascinates me every time. LOL

        Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 9:09 am

      Yes! That’s what Kitchen Stewardship says…..I linked that post above. 🙂

      Reply
  44. Courtney says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:54 am

    How many do u get for 44.00?

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 9:10 am

      It’s based on pounds. They’re actually on sale right now for less. You can get 5-7 loads for every 4-5 soap nuts. If the soap nuts are larger pieces, I just use 4. If they’re smaller, I use 5. 🙂

      Reply
  45. KM Logan @lessonsfromivy says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:44 am

    Thanks for the review, I saw these on TV and wondered if they really worked. For now I just buy detergent from the $$ store which works out to be $.03 a load, albeit definitely not all natural. I wonder if people with nut allergies can use these. Almond milk makes me break out in an itchy rash but I can eat almonds, I’m not sure what would happen to my skin if I washed my clothes in nuts 🙂 That sounds so funny, washing my clothes in nuts. I’ll stick with the $ store brand for now.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 9:10 am

      Interesting….I have no idea. I would think buying the trial pack and seeing what happened would be safest! 🙂

      Reply
    • Sara says

      January 15, 2013 at 1:14 pm

      I have been using soap nuts for about two years and absolutely love them. My daughter is allergic to tree nuts and we have had no issues with using soap nuts. I believe this is a berry and not actually a nut. I purchase them when the warehouse is clearing out their inventory and lists a huge sale (I think last time I purchased pieces which work the same).

      Reply
      • Stacy says

        January 15, 2013 at 5:43 pm

        Yes – the pieces are GREAT! 🙂 Good tip!!

        Reply
    • Lexie says

      January 15, 2013 at 4:26 pm

      You can use these if you have a nut allergy. They aren’t nuts at all just fruit from a tree. 🙂 My daughter has a nut allergy and we use these with no problem.

      Reply
      • Stacy says

        January 15, 2013 at 5:34 pm

        Thanks for chiming in, Lexie!!

        Reply
  46. Angelia Thomas says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:24 am

    I have seen something on this a few months ago via a different site.
    I was toying with the idea of purchasing them to try because I wanted to save money and I LOATHED making my own laundry detergent. I especially didn’t like having to stir or shake the detergent because it would clump up into a terribly huge mass.

    I would absolutely love to try these, but I am also partial to ‘scents’ in the detergent. I could probably use an essential oil but I’m afraid of what it might do to the laundry.

    I guess I need to just bite the bullet so to speak and give them a try.

    Thank you for posting this…you’ve definitely given me something to think about.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 9:13 am

      We use wool dryer balls and you can put one drop of essential oil on those for a slight scent in the clothing. 🙂

      Reply
  47. Kristin says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:17 am

    I just clicked on the amazon link and their actually on sale (for this second) for 38.95! Thanks for the info! I was just about to take the leap to homemade laundry detergent for our family of 7, now I’m rethinking it!

    Reply
    • Kristin says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:24 am

      It just got on my nerves that I wrote ‘their’ instead of ‘they’re’. Ugh, glad I got that off my chest 🙂

      Reply
      • Stacy says

        January 15, 2013 at 9:13 am

        LOL No worries – I didn’t even catch it.

        Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:26 am

      I know! I don’t need another batch right now, or I would order! 🙂

      Reply
  48. Christy, The Simple Homemaker says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:56 am

    Very cool! Do you know about using them in laundromats? Do they get rid of bacteria and other such questionables. I guess they do, or you wouldn’t use them on your diapers. Well, I’m sold! Thanks!

    I love the idea of writing on the machine with a dry erase. I use a post-it on the door of the front end loader, but a dry erase would be much more fun, because it would feel life graffiti.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:27 am

      I know right? Every time I right on the washer, I grin. Sorta like I’m breaking the rules. REBEL!!!!!
      And yes, I think the hot water and vinegar does the job at disinfecting – plus drying in the sun kills germies too.

      Reply
      • Christy, The Simple Homemaker says

        January 15, 2013 at 8:31 am

        We can’t line dry in RV parks or church parking lots. Well, we could in church parking lots, but then everyone would see our skivvies. Even though (almost) everybody WEARS skivvies, you can’t actually acknowledge it, much less DISPLAY them. It’s one of those can’t-grow-up issues of mine. 😉

        Reply
        • Stacy says

          January 15, 2013 at 9:12 am

          Funny….I would think it would be MORE embarrassing to let someone know that you didn’t wear skivvies at all. 😉

          Reply
  49. Becky says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:51 am

    Do they leave spots on whites?

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:28 am

      No that I have noticed. I wash Barry’s white work shirts with them. I wouldn’t let a bag of them sit on whites for long or anything.

      Reply
  50. Heidi Zander says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:50 am

    I started using soap nuts a few months ago, but didn’t know about the hot water. Thanks for sharing! Someone asked me about releasing the soap in the rinse, so now I know!

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:28 am

      🙂 Ta da! Not sure why I said that…I just kinda wanted to say TA DA!

      Reply
  51. Toni says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:36 am

    Stacy, you are so informative and hi-larious! Thank you so much for sharing and making me have belly giggles. (The dirty mouth ha!) Too funny.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:29 am

      🙂 Thank ya, muchly!

      Reply
  52. HomeINsteader says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:32 am

    I’m happy to see a review of soap nuts; I had heard about them, but never tried them. I think I’ll try them if only to say I’ve tried them! But, it seems to me that in the end analysis, there’s no true “time savings”. If it’s necessary to keep track of how many times you’ve used each load of soap nuts, and that does appear necessary, then, in my estimation, blending your own (as I currently do) isn’t any more “time-consuming” than keeping track of load usage. That issue probably “all comes out in the wash” (pun intended!).

    So, it probably really comes down to, “how ‘earthy’ do you want to be?”, don’t you think?

    Either way, gotta try soap nuts. thanks for review.

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:30 am

      It really doesn’t take me much time to figure that, since I use the dry erase marker like I talked about in the post. I keep it on top of the shelf by the washer and when I start a load, I just make a tally. It’s pretty quick. 🙂

      Reply
  53. Brandy says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:06 am

    I have used soap nuts and really enjoyed them. I think you’ve inspired me to do it again. 🙂

    Reply
    • Stacy says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:08 am

      Yay!!! You inspire me all the time! 🙂

      Reply


Hello! I’m Stacy!

I believe God created you to be the hero of your home. You CAN manage your home instead of it managing you. That’s why I empower women with simple solutions for their homemaking needs – because if it’s not easy, you won’t do it. {Read More…}

As Featured on the Dave Ramsey Show

Stuff You Really Should Check Out

home management course

© 2023 Humorous Homemaking LLC · All Rights Reserved. · Privacy Policy

 

Loading Comments...