You must have heard and acquired a detox diet. Detoxing the body is necessary in order to balance the doshas and to remain free of any diseases and far away from harmful ingredients. Similarly, laundry cleaners contain various harmful ingredients that are toxic in nature and it necessary to follow a detox laundry routine. Here are some tips to detox your laundry routine:
DITCH SPOT CLEANERS
There are a lot of spot cleaners available in the market. We often use them to remove tough stubborn stains. These spot cleaners usually contain harmful ingredients which are toxic to both humans and the environment. Ditch these spot cleaners and use baking soda mixed with lemon instead for effective spot cleaning. You can also use a bar of soap as a spot cleaner.
MAKE YOUR OWN DETERGENTS
Commercial detergents too contain harmful ingredients like perchloroethylene and the used up water that is drained can cause harm to the environment. Making your own detergent can help you detox your laundry routine. Make one by mixing glycerine soap flakes, baking soda and salt. Mix these ingredients and store in an ait tight container. DIY laundry detergent>>
DITCH FABRIC SOFTENER
Fabric softeners make your clothes soft, prevent lint and also make your clothes smell great. Mix 20-30 drops of essential oils to ½ cup of vinegar and use this as a fabric softener. You can also use your natural hair conditioner as fabric softener. DIY fabric softener>>
SCENT YOUR LAUNDRY
You can also make your clothes smell good naturally. All you have to do is toss in dried herbs in the dryer along with your clothes. Your clothes will come out fresh and fragrant. You can put in herbs like dried chamomile, dried thyme, rosemary and even lavender.
DITCH DRYING CYCLE
If you want a serious detoxing, save energy by ditching the drying cycle. You can dry clothes in an outdoor line or indoor by using a clothes rack. You can do this in the summers in shade, when the surrounding is humid and will dry your clothes faster.
DITCH COMMERCIAL BLEACH
Commercial bleach contains harmful ingredients that can even damage your cloth gradually. They provoke respiratory issues and can create toxic chlorine gas. You can always switch to DIY bleach: Simply mix 1 ½ cups hydrogen peroxide, ½ cup lemon juice, distilled water (a gallon jug) and 20 drops of any essential oils of your choice. Store it in a container and use 1 cup of this homemade bleach in your washing cycle. More on natural bleach alternatives>>
USE ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY MACHINES
No-a-days you will find all greener or environment friendly washing machines up in the stores. Lookout for machines that require less water, less electricity and also less detergents.
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
- Skip ironing to save electricity. If you are worried about looking rumpled, hang up clothes the minute you take them out of the washer.
- Get drier balls. Theyreduce drying time and static, and help get rid of wrinkles.
- You can use soapnuts instead of detergents. Simply boil them in water, strain and use the foamy water in your washing machine.