We know, this is THE question of our times! Housewives and househusbands' first debated topic!
Of course, this article could talk to about the different eco-friendly detergent brands that are out there. They are brilliant and more and more common (Ecos is a great one by the way). Although where would be the fun? It takes more to be an Eco-washer master! So let’s explore what alternatives exist. Ones that might actually prevent you from ever having to buy detergent and softener ever again!
Make your own detergent
To make homemade laundry detergent, you'll need:
Instructions:
Optional: Add the essential oil.
Exception: don't use bakind soda on on silk or wool. Alternatively you can make detergent from Ivy and water only.
That's it! Your homemade laundry detergent is ready to use. It's simple, eco-friendly, and cost-effective.
The laundry ball
What’s a laundry ball?
Laundry balls are an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional detergent. They work by using mineral pellets or ceramic beads to clean clothes without harsh chemicals. Not only do they reduce pollution and plastic waste, but they're also gentle on fabrics and suitable for sensitive skin. Plus, they're compatible with all types of washing machines. Overall, laundry balls offer a convenient and sustainable way to keep your laundry fresh and clean.
Use washing nets
Laundry nets, also known as laundry bags, are handy to protect delicate clothing items during the washing machine cycle. They typically feature a mesh design that allows water and detergent to flow through while preventing the clothes from getting tangled, snagged, or damaged.
Certain types of clothing are particularly suited for washing in laundry nets, including delicate fabrics, underwear, activewear, knitwear of Baby clothes.
Filtering microplastics
Microplastic pollution is a rather newly studied issue but has rapidly been identified as a major one due to its health implications. As our clothes are increasingly made of polyester and other synthetic, plastic-like fibres, they are one of the main microplastic polluters. They release microplastic all along they lifespan, but specifically when being washed. Although, the good news is: microplastic filters can be attached to washing machines. These filters trap tiny plastic particles shed from synthetic fabrics, preventing them from entering wastewater and harming the environment. If some vendors are starting to sell machines with integrated filter, pushed by regulations in some countries like France, you can also by an external filter. Studies are still scarce, but these filters could capture up to 74% of microplastic fibres.
Although it can be quite expensive (150€)
Alternatively, specific nets exist to retain synthetic clothes' microplastics, offering another solution to reduce plastic pollution.
https://en.guppyfriend.com/products/guppyfriend-washing-bag?variant=39516660826215
Price : 30€/net
Drying balls
Instead of using a drying sheet, you could look into using a reusable drying ball! They usually come as woollen balls but you can also find silicone ones.
What are they ? Well they are basically tightly woven balls of felted wool. Not only are they absorbent by nature, but they very presence in the dryer help seperate the clothes and ensure that the hot air is circulating as it bounces around.
And it makes a lot of promises:
In addition, they are quite affordable (20-25€) and last for a long time: up to 1000 washes. Considering that the average household does around 300 loads a year, you’re safe for a while!
There you have it! Your ultimate Eco-friendly washing Kit!
