How to use Soap Berries
Here are some ways we have discovered of using soap berries. Please share with us any new ways you discover!!Laundry Washing MachinePlace 2-6 whole shells tied securely in our netting in with your washing. The number of shells used will depend on the size of your load, the amount of soiling and whether used in areas where hard water is present. We encourage a bit of experimentation to get the best results for you.
There is no need to add a fabric softener as there is no harmful or irritating residue left over by the soap berries. We add couple of drops of essential oil in where you normally place the fabric softener solution. This adds a beautiful aroma and also the benefits of that essential oil to your washing.
Remove soap berries and allow to dry before next cycle if there is time. Soapberries can be reused 4-6 times (less often in hot water cycles). Compost used berries in the garden.
Handwashing
Place desired number of soap berries into laundry trough and add running water over them. Add your clothing for a soak and handwash. Perfect for very delicate garments and materials!
Dishwasher
Place 3 shells tied in netting in the base of the cutlery container and add a touch of vinegar in the rinse aid dispenser. Compost the used berries in the garden.
Liquid Soap Concentrate / Mutli-Purpose Cleaner
Place 100gms of Soap berries into 3 litres of water and bring to the boil then simmer for approx 60mins. The boiling process extracts the saponin and combines with the water. This will make approx 2 litres. To thicken (not needed but if you prefer) use 1 teaspoon of cornflower disolved in 1 tablespoon of boiling water and add to solution. Allow to cool then strain solution in bottles. Compost used berries in the garden.Shampoo
Place 3 soap berries in 500ml water and bring to the boil then simmer for 10mins. Add some drops of your chosen essential oil. Cool and strain into container. KEEP AWAY FROM EYES.Dandruff Control
Apply liquid to scalp and leave for 5-10mins then rinse. Make sure liquid does not get into eyes as it will burn. The soapberry solution will repel dandruff and keeps hair soft and strong.Bath
Place 3-4 soap berries tied securely in netting into hot water bath and allow to steep for 5 mins. Add a couple of drops of your chosen essential oil. This will provide you with a relaxing, soothing bath. Your skin will be left feeling smoother, softer and protect from infection. Soapberries are completely natural and are great for babies and pets too. They reduce skin problems like itching etc. Remember to keep solution away from eyes! Pet Shampoo
Place 3-4 soap berries in 1 litre of water and bring to the boil then simmer for 10mins. This will make a milder solution. Use as normal to clean your pet and ensure you rinse off solution thoroughly. Remember to keep away from eyes!
Cleaning / Detoxifying Food
Soak fruit / veg in soap berry liquid for 10mins. Rinse off then use as desired. The soapberry solution removes any chemical residue. Soap berry solution can be re-used for household cleaning.Cleaning Jewellery
Soak jewellery in solution then rub with cloth to give a shine.Natural Pesticide
Left over liquid from washing up etc can be used in the garden to repel insects off plants and around the house. Ie Aphids and black flys.
